For businesses that need more IT support than they can provide on their own, hiring a co-managed IT services partner is a great option. Co-managed IT services allow companies to outsource some of their IT needs while still maintaining control over the direction and strategy of their technology infrastructure.
But how do you choose the right partner for your business? Here are four key points to consider when selecting a co-managed IT service provider.
1. Talk About Your Needs:
Before you make a decision, it’s important to discuss with potential co-managed IT service partners what your organization needs and how their services can meet those needs. What specific skills, expertise, and resources does the provider offer? Is there a particular technology or process that your organization requires? Are there any potential risks associated with using the service provider’s offerings?
Once you know and understand what they offer, you will be better able to see if it is a good fit for your company. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
2. Examine Their Processes:
A successful co-managed IT service partnership relies heavily on clearly-defined processes and procedures. How does the provider handle deployment, maintenance, and patching? What if something goes wrong or your system needs to be upgraded? Does the service provider have a plan for how they will respond and solve any issues that may arise?
It’s essential to understand their approach and make sure it meets your organization’s culture and expectations. If your processes/ approach to business is significantly different, this should be a warning sign that it might not be a good match.
3. Consider the Costs:
Cost is always an important factor to consider when selecting a service provider. Does their pricing model fit within your budget? Is there room for negotiation or willingness to offer discounts if you commit to a long-term contract? What kind of payment terms do they offer?
Be sure to read the fine print and know what’s included in your agreement. Never be afraid to ask questions on this part. Everyone should be on the same page.
4. Assess Their Support:
Excellent customer service is an essential component of a successful co-managed IT service partnership. Does the provider offer 24/7 support? How quickly do they respond to requests or problems? Are there any additional services they offer such as training or consulting?
The level of support your service provider offers can make all the difference when it comes to achieving a successful outcome.
If you know it’s time to jump into co-managed IT services, that’s a great choice. Allow these questions to guide you as you search for the right company to be your IT partner.
Choosing the right partner for co-managed IT services is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. By keeping these four points in mind and talking openly about your needs and expectations, you’ll be able to find the provider that best meets your organization’s requirements. This will help ensure a successful relationship with your co-managed IT service partner. Good luck!