How to choose an IT support provider in Brighton
Businesses are increasingly looking for ways to save money on their IT support, or would like to start exploring new services to transform their operations, but aren’t sure where to begin. With so many types of IT service to choose from, and different companies making different promises, how do you know which managed IT company is right for your business?
Here are some helpful tips to consider when choosing a new IT support provider.
1. Where are they based?
Consider where your IT support company is based before you sign the contract. Remote helpdesk assistance is a great first line of defense, but how long would it take to get an engineer out if you needed immediate help at your office?
Many businesses prefer a personalized, face-to-face service, and enjoy the assurance of on-site support, without having to wait days for an appointment. Our customers often consider us as an extension of their own team, and appreciate seeing familiar faces working at their offices. Successful, effective relationships are formed when you can work with local engineers that you know, and who know your business.
2. Do they have the right know-how?
When it comes to managed IT providers, not all are created equal. You should make sure that the company you choose can provide the services you need – now and in the future. How is your business planning to grow? Make sure you find a company that provides the technical support services you’ll need to meet next year’s business objectives and beyond – not just the immediate need.
Do your research on the company as well. How much experience does the Director or CEO have? What are their areas of specialism? Do they guarantee their work?
Don’t be afraid to ask about their other clients, particularly those in the same industry. How large their clients’ operations are, the range of services they use, how long the clients have worked with them… all of these answers will help you gauge how the company’s experience will benefit you.
3. What does their IT services pricing model look like?
In these times of ‘global uncertainty’, many companies are looking for ways to make cost savings. Cutting your IT budget might seem like a quick way to save money, but what are the real costs of using ‘pay as you use’ services? Hidden extras, capped billable hours, call out fees, out of hours charges… these all add up.
When it comes to price enquiries, make sure you’re provided with a simple, easy-to-understand quote. If something doesn’t make sense, ask for clarification. If it still doesn’t make sense, maybe it’s time to look elsewhere. Your time is valuable, so don’t rack up extra costs trying to decipher a complicated pricing document.
Getting value from your IT support provider is about more than getting the cheapest hourly rate. Which leads us nicely on to point 4…
4. Are they thinking big picture about your business?
With managed IT services you should be getting exactly what you pay for: management of your entire IT estate. This means someone regularly reviewing your infrastructure, providing advice and suggestions on ways to drive efficiency, and holistically analysing how your IT services are delivering business value for your company.
A pitfall of working with larger companies is that they are focused solely on growing their businesses as fast as possible, taking on as many new clients as they can. And while growth is certainly no bad thing, is their support able to scale at pace? If they sign a new client and take on a multi-site infrastructure project, will they still provide the same level of support?
We would always recommend going with an IT provider who will look after your business, not just their own pockets. Protecting the security and integrity of client infrastructure should be their number one priority, but sadly that isn’t always the case.
If you’re interested in discussing ways to create more effective IT systems, implement new technology or hardware, or would like to save money on your IT costs, we can help. We offer a range of services to suit all types of business, and all budgets, in and around Brighton and Sussex. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you, and you’ll see why so many local businesses choose AJT Support. See what our customers think.
