In the previous article we explored the modern world of work, we concluded that it has been revolutionised by technology and that said technology has made our lives both at home and work easier than ever before.
We stressed that just buying tech isn’t good enough, because you must have tech that is strategically aligned to the way you want to run your organisation and the way your team works, and support around that tech needs to be of the highest possible standard. We also explored IT support in detail, we explained that IT support doesn’t just mean support anymore, and that the responsibilities of your support provider are much larger than they once were.
In the remainder of this article we will make a checklist of what you as a business owner need to look out for when navigating potential providers’ websites.
The checklist
- Proactivity not reactivity
Proactivity is essential. As we have already discussed in the previous article, a merely reactive IT partner will leave you stuck using the dated tools that you are using now with little to no help in the pursuit for growth of the business. A lot of IT providers boast a 24/7 service, but just because its 24/7 support doesn’t make it proactive support – the right provider will take time to get to know you, your team, and the way your business works. Take your time before making any big decisions, especially if you are unsure whether consultancy is a part of the SLA (you must make sure you find out).
- Remote support
Remote support is a huge consideration in the modern workplace. In the past you would call your provider and attempt to explain the problem, and then they would send a representative in person to fix the problem physically. In the modern world we are lucky enough to be living in, this is no longer necessary, as a lot of providers will use a software solution that allows you to send a request, then after (ideally) a few minutes an expert will be in contact with you via a remote session to run through the fix with you.
- Expertise
Search for a provider that has expertise in your industry sector – sounds obvious, right? You will be surprised how many businesses don’t do this. How can someone advise you on what to implement in your organisation to aid in it’s success if they don’t know what makes a business successful in your sector?
- Strategic Partnership
When on the search for a partner, listen out for the mention of a strategic partnership. It can also be described as strategic alignment. But some – the ones you need to avoid – don’t reference it at all. Potential providers must have a genuine interest in establishing a strategic partnership with you; it is an accumulation of proactivity, expertise, and relationship building that makes this possible. Your provider must come to you with forward thinking IT strategies that drive efficiency to keep you, your team, and ultimately your organisation moving forward.
These are just some of the things to look out for on potential providers’ websites. This article should help you find an IT provider that best suits the needs of your organisation. If you think this might all be a bit too much to do alone, why not get in contact with us and see what we can offer for you and your team.
Your Success is Our Success
We’re a young, fun, and enthusiastic bunch of down-to-earth people that strive to relieve our clients’ IT headaches. We love to engage and create enjoyable relationships with our clients, but, ultimately, we’re here to help your business run smoothly and securely. Our team has many years of experience in IT Consultancy, Website Development, Email/Web Hosting, Server Builds/Installations/Maintenance, Network Issues and IT Security… and more! Contact us now to find out how we can help you.
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