If you’re running a small business, your budget is probably tight. Full-time IT professionals aren’t cheap, meaning hiring a staff member may be out of the question. Even if you have in-house IT staff, they can easily become overworked, overwhelmed, and unable to handle all of your IT needs.
Fortunately, that’s exactly what managed IT companies are for. A managed IT service handles your technological resources for you, including cloud-based server management, software update installation, help desk services, and more. The idea is that everything your business needs is taken care of, as needed, leaving you and your staff to focus on serving your customers.
But not all managed IT companies in Winnipeg are alike. Some provide a higher standard of service than others, and even a good company could be a poor choice for your business if they don’t provide a service you need. Here are a few important things to look for in a managed IT service.
What Services do They Offer?
Many managed IT companies offer different service packages, so it’s important to make sure you’re going to get what your business really needs. For example, some companies offer a “Monitoring Only” package that includes software updates, antivirus support, and OS updates -- but not necessarily a help desk service. Some packages provide remote and phone support, but won’t send anyone out to fix problems on site. Make sure you look at the packages that each company offers before you make a decision, so that you can choose one that fits both your needs and your budget. You don’t want to overpay for something you don’t need, but you also don’t want to have something go wrong and realize that it’s not covered in your managed IT plan.
Which Software Do They Support?
Needless to say, you want a managed IT service that supports the software that your business relies on. Common software, like MS Office and Microsoft Windows operating systems, are almost always covered. But you’ll want to make sure any CRM, accounting, or industry-specific software programs will also be supported.
How Often Are They Available?
Check the hours of their help desk service if it’s included in the plan you want. Some IT companies offer phone and email tech support services 24/7, while others maintain regular nine to five office hours. Depending on the nature of your business, you might not need 24-hour service, but if you do, you’ll want to make sure it’s available.
Do They Offer Onsite Support?
Remote IT help desk services can fix quite a few issues, but sometimes, you’ll need an expert to come to your business premises to solve a problem in person. Make sure your managed IT company offers hands-on support.
Do They Understand Your Industry?
Some industries use specialized software and hardware for specific tasks, making it important to find a managed IT service with experience in your field. For example, if your business relies heavily on CAD software, you want an IT provider that can fix problems with the program if something goes wrong.
Managed IT Services: A Great Choice for Small Businesses
At Constant C, we’re a full service managed IT company, specializing in work with small and midsize businesses throughout Winnipeg. If you’re looking for a service you can trust, feel free to reach out to us any time and we would be glad to assist.
