Top 10 tips for choosing the right IT Support Company

The decision to outsource the IT support for a small business can feel like leaping off a mountain without a rope, but with some planning, foresight and the help of some top tips, it will likely prove to be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made. Let’s delve into the 10 most important pieces of advice to consider before you make this bold move.

1: Check out those reviews and testimonials

The great thing about making decisions on service providers these days is the proliferation of reviews out there to help guide your decision. If the network support company you are looking at has little in the way of testimonials on their site, they are either very new or they have something to hide. Look for reviews that go beyond the ‘brilliant’, ‘superb service’ kind of hyperbole and delve into more detail as to what elevates this company from the competition.

2: Guaranteed response times

When it comes to IT support, response times are critical. You should look for a company that has a guaranteed response time written into the contract, with very fast response times for critical problems. Take guaranteed solve times with a pinch of salt. The guaranteed response is believable, but nobody can with 100% certainty guarantee how long it will take to solve a problem.

3: Do they work with specific hardware / software companies?

While not necessarily an issue, it is good to get any alliances out I the open, because the last thing you want is a company who puts this kind of relationship ahead of your own needs. You want the best solution, not the best solution their company of choice can offer.

4: Check their personalities & responsiveness

The last thing you want is a personality clash getting in the way of good business relationships. Have thorough conversations either in person or over the telephone. Check whether you can get in touch over the phone or by email, with good, swift and polite responses. Check whether a phone call can put you not only in direct contact with a human but also to a technician if needed. You will get a great handle on whether you can envisage a strong working relationship being built in this way.

5: Experience counts

It is definitely an idea to quiz the IT support company about their past experience. Whether they’ve managed any crises effectively and how they did so. Ask whether they have any experience in your field and how they are able to meet any particular challenges that are unique to your kind of business.

6: Check the package

The last thing you want from an IT support company is to be tied into a lengthy contract, especially in these uncertain times. You should not have to do this, with most companies offering very flexible break clauses. Also check what you can expect to be included and excluded from your standard charges to avoid any nasty surprises. The more transparent the company, the better.

I am a professional writer providing content for various customers.