Nine Signs You Need a New IT Managed Services Provider

A business’s relationship with its managed information technology (IT) services provider typically involves outsourcing specific IT tasks and responsibilities to the provider. This includes network and server management, cybersecurity, software updates, and troubleshooting. The provider is responsible for maintaining and managing the business’s technology infrastructure. In contrast, the company focuses on its core operations. The relationship is often ongoing, with regular check-ins and updates to ensure that the technology is meeting the needs of the business. This type of relationship can save a business time and resources while providing access to expert knowledge and resources.

Ultimately, not all providers can offer their clients the same level of service. You may find that your business suffers due to faulty and outdated software, slow networks, security risks, or malware and viruses.

In-House IT or Managed IT

Managed information technology services and in-house IT refers to ways a business can handle its technology needs.

In-house IT is when a business employs IT professionals to handle all its technology needs internally. This team manages and maintains the company’s technology infrastructure, including servers, networks, and software. They handle tasks such as software updates, troubleshooting, and cybersecurity. In-house IT teams also typically deploy new technology and custom software development.

On the other hand, managed IT services involve outsourcing specific IT tasks and responsibilities to a third-party provider. These vendors who provide business IT support services can handle various tasks, such as network and server management, cybersecurity, software updates, and troubleshooting. Managed IT services can also include monitoring the system and providing proactive support.

Signs You Need a New IT Managed Services Provider

Lack of Communication

Effective communication is essential for the success of a managed IT services relationship. The business should have regular meetings and check-ins with the provider to discuss the technology infrastructure, review performance metrics, and make any necessary adjustments. The provider should also have a transparent and responsive process for handling issues and providing support.

Failing to Meet Deadlines

A managed information technology services provider’s failure to meet deadlines can significantly impact a business. Delayed projects and missed deadlines can disrupt the business’s operations. They can cause delays in the implementation of new technology or updates. This can also cause frustration and dissatisfaction on the part of the business and can damage the relationship between the company and the provider.

Outgrown your IT Provider

As a business grows and expands, its technology needs may change and evolve. A managed information technology services provider well-suited for a small business may no longer be able to meet the needs of a larger, more complex organization.

For example, as a business grows, it may require more advanced technology and security measures to protect sensitive data and meet regulatory requirements. The same can be said for larger firms. Large businesses typically have a wide range of IT needs, from data center infrastructure to cybersecurity and cloud computing to software development and integration. They may require a higher level of expertise, scalability, and customization. A provider unable to offer these services may become a bottleneck for the growth of the business.

IT Support Seems Overwhelmed

If the provider is understaffed or overwhelmed, it can lead to delayed response times, difficulty resolving issues, and difficulty meeting deadlines. This can impair your company’s performance and cause annoyance and dissatisfaction. Sometimes, it may be necessary to consider finding a new provider to meet your needs better.

High Turnover with Their Staff

It’s essential to understand the reasons behind the staff turnover, as it could indicate a deeper issue with the provider that could concern the long-term relationship. Constantly having new staff come to your office, showing them around, and training them on proprietary systems is a massive loss of time and money for your business.

If the turnover affects the service or the provider cannot provide consistent service, it may be necessary to consider finding a new provider to meet your needs better.

Costs are Increasing Significantly

If a small firm receives excessive charges from its IT supplier, this could indicate that the provider is not providing a cost-effective solution for its needs. It may be necessary to re-evaluate the relationship with the provider and consider other options that may better fit the business’s budget.

Not Using Up-to-Date Technologies

Outdated technology can be less efficient, less secure, and more prone to problems. Suppose an information technology provider is not using up-to-date technology. In that case, it can lead to several issues for a small business, such as a lack of efficiency, increased security risks, and more frequent breakdowns. It can also make it difficult for the company to stay competitive and adapt to changes in the market.

Outdated technology may be unable to handle a growing business’s demands. It may not have the needed features or capabilities to support the business’s operations. It may also not be compatible with new software, tools, and systems being developed and used in the market, which can cause further issues.

Response time is slow.

Small businesses must deal with an IT provider with a responsive request-handling system. The provider should have clear communication channels and be honest about delays or issues causing slow response times.

They Are Reactive as Opposed to Proactive

If an information technology provider is reactive instead of proactive, it can lead to several problems for a small business. A reactive approach means that the provider is only addressing issues as they arise rather than taking preventative measures to prevent them from happening in the first place. Perhaps they don’t have the knowledge or insight to anticipate and prevent problems from occurring or may not have the resources to take a proactive approach.

Consider factors such as expertise, scalability, cost-effectiveness, proactive approach, clear communication, timely support, certifications and compliance, security, and a good match with your business goals and needs when looking for an IT provider. It’s essential to research, ask for references, and evaluate the provider’s past performance before deciding. Finding someone local who understands your industry can be a massive asset to your IT department.

Author Bio

Richelle Calicott is the partner and Chief Financial Officer for TechSeven Partners. TechSeven Partners is an IT solutions provider in Fort Mill, SC. TechSeven is prominent in small and medium business sectors and provides strategic technology cyber security solutions for growing businesses. If you are looking for Business IT Management Services in Charlotte, TechSeven Partners is the ideal partner for your business.

Further Reading:

1, Implementing New Technology in the Workplace

2, 7 Companies Illuminating the World of Business