Are you concerned about your company’s current IT infrastructure? You don’t have to manage your IT needs alone. Instead, consider outsourcing IT services to a managed IT company.

Hire managed service identity experts for your business, because their experience and expertise can make the necessary improvements and setting your business up for lasting success.

More businesses are relying on managed IT services, too. In fact, the managed services industry reached $178.5 billion in 2019. It could grow to $309.4 billion by 2025.

That’s a CAGR of 9.6%.

Not every managed IT team will have the services or expertise you need, though.

Here are eight tips that can help streamline your search. With these tips, you’ll have an easier time reviewing your options. You can make sure to find the best managed IT company based on your distinct needs.

Make the most of your time. Start searching “managed IT company near me” using these tips today.

1. Establish Short- and Long-Term Goals

Remember, not every managed IT team you find online will have the services or know-how you need. Before you start searching, take the time to outline your “wants” versus your “needs.” Consider your long- and short-term goals as well.

Otherwise, you might waste time outsourcing IT responsibilities to a team that’s unequipped to meet your expectations.

Consider why you’re interested in outsourcing IT services in the first place. Make a list of the services you’re interested in as well.

For example, you might want to safeguard your business and customers from a potential attack. Look for a managed IT team that offers cybersecurity services. You can contact a cyber security company like engagecybersecurity.com that provides protection against cyber threats, ensure the safety of your business data, and increase profits. Managed IT services companies are able to handle all of these tasks in a way that meets your specific needs. As a result, customers can choose from a wide range of providers to suit their particular business objectives.

More businesses started working remotely in light of COVID-19. Is your team prepared for another global incident? If not, consider requesting cloud computing services.

Then, you can access your files and data from anywhere on the planet.

If you’re in an area that’s prone to power outages, consider backup services as well. You might want to look into data management and storage services, too.

Make a list of your priorities. The best-managed IT company like  IT consulting Orange County will accomplish every goal on your list. You shouldn’t have to request services from multiple companies to accomplish your goals.

2. Gather Referrals

You can also streamline your search by speaking with other business owners in your professional network.

Otherwise, you might waste time trying to vet the hundreds of options that appear when you Google “managed IT company near me.” In fact, there are over 844,000 computer support specialists employed in the US. The industry could grow to add 72,200 more specialists by 2030, too.

Remember, not everyone has the experience, expertise, or capabilities to accomplish your goals.

Talk to professionals you already know and trust. Ask if they partner with a managed IT team. If they do, ask about their experience with the company.

For example, was the company able to accomplish the client’s goals? Was the client satisfied with the services they received? If not, did the IT company try to fix the problem?

Speaking with your professional network could help you create a list of options to vet further. Otherwise, you’ll know exactly which IT companies to avoid.

If your network can’t help you, that’s okay. Google “managed IT company near me.” Then, use the rest of these tips to narrow down your selection.

3. Find an Established Business

Visit each company’s website and look for their “About Us” page. Consider visiting their Better Business Bureau profile as well. Determine how long each company has run and operated.

Try to find an established business and a team with years of experience in the IT industry. These teams will know how to operate efficiently. A new business, on the other hand, might still need to work out a few kinks.

Look at the list of services you’re interested in. How long has the business offered those services? If they lack experience and only recently started offering that service, look elsewhere.

Otherwise, make sure the company is licensed and insured.

4. Consider Staff and Availability

Before outsourcing IT services, ask each team how many specialists they currently have on staff. Determine how many clients they’re currently helping, too.

Then, ask each team about their response times. How long will it take before you receive the help you need?

If the team is understaffed, you might have to wait for help. You could experience costly downtime as a result. The downtime you experience could cost you customers.

Instead, look for a team that’s staffed and ready to respond to your support tickets right away.

Make sure the team has the experience and expertise you’re searching for as well. For example, you can learn more about Roxanne Tamayo and her abilities to help your business.

5. Request a Dedicated Technician

Determine if you’ll work with a dedicated technician, too. If so, learn more about that IT specialist’s experience and expertise.

Ask if they have experience working with businesses like yours. Their prior experience could benefit your business.

6. Consider Their Services

Consider scheduling a consultation with two or three companies on your list. Discuss the problems you’re experiencing and business goals. Then, ask each company about the managed IT services they would recommend.

Determine what services they offer. If the company can’t accomplish your goals, look elsewhere.

7. Read Reviews

You can learn more about each managed IT company by reading reviews from their recent clients. Check the company’s BBB profile and Google My Business listing.

One or two negative comments are normal. If you find an abundance of negative reviews, however, scratch that company off your list. Instead, try to find a company with a strong reputation.

They’ll strive to maintain that reputation by offering every client the best managed IT services.

8. Discuss Pricing

During your consultation appointments, ask each company you speak with for a quote. Determine how they calculate their pricing. Ask about their fee structure, too.

For example, will you pay a monthly fee or a fee based on each support ticket? Ask about the levels of support the company offers, too.

Then, consider which company best suits your needs and budget.

Start Searching: 8 Tips for Finding the Best Managed IT Company

Don’t rush when looking for the best managed IT company around. Instead, use these tips to vet your options. With these tips, you can find the right team based on your distinct needs and goals.

With their help, you can set your business up for lasting success.

Searching for more tips? You’re in the right place.

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