How to find the right managed IT services first time

There is no denying that choosing your IT service provider is a crucial business decision. In the end, it's a big decision because you're entrusting a third party with the IT systems, software management, data security, and cyber security of your company.

The good news? We've helped you make this choice a little bit easier. We have used our insider knowledge of the managed IT services sector to demystify this process.

Read on to ensure your business operations, security, customer data, and financial performance are not compromised by using the wrong IT provider. ?

The most important considerations when choosing managed IT services?

Are they experts in the field?

You should think about whether they are experts in your industry as well as IT managed services. Working with an IT provider who understands your particular needs and challenges is crucial because every industry will have different requirements and regulations regarding their IT systems, software, and cyber security.

Consider if:??

• They have a proven track record in your industry?

• They have relevant accreditations, such as ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials, and FSQS?

• They have the knowledge to address the challenges you face?

• They have a reputation for being tech consulting experts by checking their LinkedIn and website for insightful content?

What IT services do they offer?

Your provider must meet your business needs. So, it's critical to understand which services are most important for your company, whether you have a cyber security skills gap or need to free up your teams' time with an outsourced software management provider. Maybe you need a full service! Whatever your needs are, it is critical that you fully understand them before selecting the best provider to meet them.

Can you scale your managed IT services?

Your IT managed services requirements will grow in tandem with your business. Choosing a managed service provider with flexible packages allows you to adjust your service provision to meet your needs. This allows you to remain agile and in control of your IT and security budgets.

What tools and techniques do they use?

The tools used in threat protection are critical. No threat should go undetected, so consider the following carefully when choosing your IT managed services provider:

• Are their tools up to date with industry standards??

• Do they leverage AI and automation to remove human error??

• Do they have the capabilities for 24/7 monitoring??

• Are their tools compliant with regulations such as GDPR and ISO 27001??

• How often is data backed up??

• Do they provide real-time alerts??

• What is the recovery time objective when using these tools??

Do you have access to 24/7 support??

Downtime can have significant financial and reputational consequences.

Look for an MSP who promises to be available and contactable, particularly in the event of a data breach or other emergency. Their support team should be available 24/7, and your systems should be monitored around the clock.

Enquire about the frequency of contact, reporting options, and whether they offer keep-in-touch calls to update your teams on the status of any IT initiatives, to ensure your teams are always informed and your service provider is accountable.

What do their clients have to say?

Before you sign an IT managed services retainer, request examples of client case studies and testimonials. This provides critical insight into dependability, performance, and customer service. Many providers will gladly schedule reference calls with current clients so you can ask questions directly.

The consequences of hiring the wrong provider

Choosing the wrong provider can have disastrous consequences for an organisation. Such as:?

• Increased downtime and poor system performance- leading to higher costs and a damaged reputation?

• Higher risk of cyber-attacks- if your IT system is not managed correctly, this leaves your system vulnerable to cyber-attacks; the average cost of a cyber-attack in 2024 was $4.8 million?

• Vulnerability to data breaches- without the correct processes in place, your systems are vulnerable to internal and external threats?

• Fines incurred due to non-compliance- this could be due to poorly managing data or mismanagement of software licensing?

• Frustrated teams- if processes do not align, your teams could struggle to work with their IT service provider or face disruptions to their workflows and deadlines?

• Delays to projects- if your provider is slow to respond, delays to business-critical initiatives could ensue?

Thinking of using in-house resources?

Using in-house resources for your IT needs may be a viable option if you have a large amount of resources, time, and industry experts.

However, hiring and retaining a team with this level of expertise can be costly and resource-intensive.

Selecting an IT service provider is one of the most important decisions a business will make, in terms of their longevity, productivity, and security. It ensures that you receive the expert digital consulting and managed IT services your business needs to thrive. ?

To explore managed IT services that are trusted by local authorities, government bodies, and well-known enterprise brands, get in touch with our expert team.??