How to Evaluate Managed IT Service Providers (9 Steps)
A managed IT service provider is key to creating a strong infrastructure.
But no two providers are the same. Many support different industries, work with different vendors, offer different pricing models, and provide a variety of support structures.
A misstep in this selection can lead to hurdles like mismatched IT strategies, unsuitable pricing models, or inadequate support structures.
In recognition of these challenges, we’ve prepared a step-by-step guide. These steps simplify your decision and help you find the perfect managed IT partner.
1. Determine your business needs and budget
Assessing specific needs and setting a clear budget is crucial for your company’s tech strategy.
A tailored approach ensures you maximize value without unnecessary expenditures. Before committing, pinpoint areas where specialized services can enhance your operations. Establish a budget based on your company’s size and goals to allocate resources effectively. A well-thought-out strategy and budget pave the way for sustainable growth and tech resilience.
Consider cushions for emergencies, upgrading equipment, and what you’ll do if the company shrinks or grows.
2. Assess provider experience
Service providers well-versed in your industry can better anticipate challenges and tailor solutions to fit your needs.
Investigate their testimonials, case studies, and feedback, and validate their reputation on external platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and Clutch. Another powerful resource is the Channel Futures MSP 501 rankings, which is the most comprehensive survey and ranking of managed service providers worldwide.
When you engage potential providers, inquire about their track record and reinforce your understanding with insights from these third-party sources.
A thorough assessment of a provider’s customer experience sets the stage for a partnership that harmonizes with your unique demands.
3. Consider response times and support
Quick response times can make or break a business. When your network faces disruptions, it’s not just about the technology; it’s about the ripple effect on customers and staff.
Consider a scenario where a network glitch delays a crucial client meeting or halts a transaction. Opting for a provider who doesn’t prioritize swift responses risks customer satisfaction, staff morale, and profits.
Always ask potential IT providers about their response times; the swifter, the better.
4. Examine security measures
With rising cyber threats, ensuring your provider’s readiness is vital.
This is evident as 8 in 10 U.S. board directors believe their organization is at risk of a cyber attack in 2023. These crimes have become sophisticated. That makes them hard to pinpoint on your own.
Ask detailed questions about data protection and threat detection techniques. Discuss action plans for handling risk and auditing your network. Go with the firm whose plans you are most comfortable with.
A rigorous examination sets the foundation for a safe and secure partnership.
5. Investigate service level agreements (SLAs)
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) are pivotal in any partnership with Managed IT service providers. They define the standards and expectations of service, ensuring both parties are on the same page.
When examining SLAs, it’s essential to scrutinize specifics, such as uptime guarantees, resolution time for issues, and penalties for not meeting stipulated terms.
Furthermore, don’t hesitate to negotiate terms that resemble your business’s unique needs more closely. A proper SLA protects your business interests and fosters a transparent and efficient partnership.
6. Consider location and availability
It’s important to ensure their availability also fits with your customer base. If you have global customers, you want to make sure your product or service is up and running when they need it.
The location of your Managed IT service provider is fundamental. A nearby team can offer rapid on-site support when necessary, distinguishing them from smaller technicians and mail-in services.
The comprehensive team structure of a managed IT service ensures a holistic approach. Depending on your industry, your business may or may not require 24/7 support. Ask providers what their support structure looks like. Some will provide 24/7 support. Others provide reduced after-hours support but prioritize creating a stable IT environment designed to reduce help desk support overall.
7. Check for data backup and recovery
Data backup and recovery are a business’s lifeline, ensuring data safety and operational continuity.
Losing this vital asset, even momentarily, can derail operations, shake customer confidence, and impact the bottom line.
Ask your potential IT partner some of the following questions before making a decision:
- How often do you save data?
- Where do you keep the backups?
- How quickly can you get lost data back?
- What plans do you have for emergencies?
You should only go with a managed IT services provider whose plans you feel confident in.
8. Request quotes and ask for references
Ask for a detailed quote and references from former and/or current customers.
When reaching out to references, try to find out how the provider performs when faced with challenges. Nothing ever goes according to plan; you want to be confident the provider you choose can tactfully and successfully handle unexpected obstacles.
This gives you a more holistic look at each option and empowers you to make the right choice for your business.
9. Find the right fit with Chortek
Choosing the right managed IT services provider is fundamental to establishing a resilient infrastructure tailored to your needs. Each provider brings a unique blend of expertise, service models, and support structures.
It’s imperative to meticulously evaluate business needs, assess provider experience, prioritize swift response times, and scrutinize security measures. Likewise, don’t overlook location availability, data backup protocols, and checking references.
As you move forward, reflect on the importance of making an informed decision that matches your business’s aspirations.
Want to make a choice that promises growth, security, and seamless operations? Include Chortek’s Managed IT Services on your list of potential partners.
