Outsourced IT support could be a critical aspect of a company’s infrastructure. Without efficient, reliable, and consistent IT performance, a large majority of organisations would not be able to function. In this article, we will discuss factors you should consider when outsourcing IT support services.
What is outsourced IT support?
For some companies having a permanent department to manage business needs is not always possible.
Most companies consider outsourcing to a team of IT support professionals. This option can save money, safeguard against cybercrime, and offer broadband and security solutions while offering specialist advice to promote economic growth.
Why should your company outsource its IT services?
- A diverse pool of experience: Having a wealth of knowledge from all different IT backgrounds means we can cover a wide range of IT topics. Someone will always be ready to assist from Networking to Printer Management, from Office 365 to Antivirus.
- Business growth: Introducing new technologies to keep up with the business’s needs is called Scalability. We can test and implement IT solutions alongside business development to ensure that nothing is slowing you down and you are always up to date.
- Refined security: We put enhanced security features across all of your company’s network and keep it secure. If a machine became compromised it would become locked down; if a device were to be stolen, we could track its location. We know how important your data is and we go all out in protecting it.
- Consistent preventative support: Nobody likes to be left behind when it comes to technology. We test current builds to find any issues and apply fixes before they become a problem. We also monitor every device to ensure everything stays up-to-date and clear of any issues.
- Controlled IT costs: Paying for IT repairs, as and when you need them, is a costly affair. We offer fixed-price support solutions which can match your business needs, ensuring you are covered for any issues. From laptop setup to disaster recovery, we will support all your business’ IT needs.
10 factors to consider for IT support services outsourcing
Outsourcing IT support can be a great way to help your business stay up and running, but before making a decision, there are some important things to remember. Here are the top 10 things to keep in mind when considering outsourcing IT support services:
Reduced costs
The financial benefits of outsourcing to managed service providers (MSP) create substantial economic benefits for businesses in several areas.
The cost of an internal IT workforce and equipment and software upgrades could severely impact time and resources, preventing a team from tackling more urgent projects. Outsourcing IT support services will save considerable time and money on employing staff and purchasing equipment.
Account management
Account Managers are committed to clients and are knowledgeable about their business operations and requirements. For larger companies, this is vital, as they have one point of contact with someone who knows their business well and with whom they have built a relationship.
An account manager offers a seamless service, often making it their priority to rectify issues immediately, maintaining professional, reliable assistance.
IT team location
While many IT support companies work remotely and numerous IT issues can be solved this way, it should not always be the only option. When it comes to upgrades and physical IT issues, a specialist visiting the office is a necessity.
It is also worth considering the advantages of employing a local IT support team, as new equipment, security camera upgrades, and broadband installation all call for on-site visits, which can incur unnecessary travel costs and additional charges.
Support team language
Some companies outsource their IT across the globe, and although this may be financially tempting, there are risks involved.
Language barriers, cultural differences, international time zones, and a lack of understanding of local laws are just a few of the problems that could arise, along with data security and privacy issues depending upon the country’s regulations.
Language barriers often lead to miscommunication and mistakes that can incur costs, so when considering an overseas firm, understand exactly how their service will be an asset to the company.
Focused resources
Technology develops at a tremendous pace, and IT support services must stay up to date. A company’s internal IT department needs to invest significant time and money in technology to ensure all equipment and software are current. This, however, is carried out automatically by
managed service providers, who also give professional training to all staff members if required.
Lower risk
With 81% of company breaches attributed to weak passwords and a 30% surge in ransomware assaults, cybercrime is an issue that plagues the technology sector, and many businesses run a major risk of being victims. Therefore, any organisation must invest in reliable, secure software to avoid this.
IT companies are aware of these hazards and are skilled in managing and preventing cybercrime, such as phishing. A business that wants to reduce risk and avoid being one of the 800,000 consumers hacked yearly should invest in a reputable IT support firm.
Reliability
Every company that outsources IT support services is entitled to an exceptional degree of dependability and service; even though it may be challenging at the beginning to build trust, reliability is a significant factor.
The use of information technology in the workplace is crucial. Therefore, many companies choose to have an internal IT department. Unfortunately, this has drawbacks unless they have adequate, reliable staff to support this department.
Outsourced specialists who are on standby to handle company concerns and urgent needs, reduce stress and reassure all departments that their technology is well cared for by a dependable provider.
Expertise
Research is a critical component in the process of hiring an agency. A business will come across hundreds of well-known, highly qualified IT suppliers eager to take on new clients.
Check out credentials and reviews when conducting research, and request samples of work, before arranging face-to-face meetings, where clients will establish whether they feel a good relationship can be forged.
Tailored packages
Tailored services are designed to meet individual customer needs and preferences, making them more personalised than generic services, which are often ‘one-size-fits-all’ and less effective at meeting the specific needs of different customers.
Bespoke services operate more efficiently, as they are client-focused and therefore fit their needs perfectly, providing them with a convenient and efficient experience. This can help improve customer satisfaction and loyalty, leading to increased business sales and revenue.
It is a business decision
The benefit of outsourcing is that many capable IT companies are willing to accept a contract and reach a cost-effective agreement; this allows both parties to concentrate on their core skills.
Why do certain companies outsource IT services?
There are several justifications for corporations when outsourcing IT support. Smaller businesses typically find it more cost-effective than employing someone directly, especially as IT services are only occasionally needed. Hence, they receive far more value for money instead of paying a wage.
Larger businesses often have internal IT departments but also outsource work concurrently for several reasons. The IT department is frequently overworked or requires special services such as cybersecurity, reporting, broadband management, disaster recovery, or monitoring.
How can outsourcing IT support help a business?
As software is constantly changing and updating, it can be difficult for a company to remain at the forefront of technology. When outsourcing, this problem is removed.
Managed service providers are experts in their field. They offer invaluable 24/7 monitoring, training, and assistance on new software, enabling individuals to navigate any day-to-day issues easily.
Choosing the best IT outsourcing company is crucial for every organisation, so choose carefully. Once recruited, the proper IT support offers limitless benefits.
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