In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the role of a managed IT service provider is more crucial than ever. These providers play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of an organization’s technology infrastructure. They handle a range of responsibilities, from maintaining servers and networks to providing cybersecurity and technical support. But what happens when your current managed IT service provider isn’t meeting your expectations?
In this blog, we’ll explore the signs that may indicate it’s time to hire a new managed IT service provider. We’ll also discuss the critical factors to consider during this transition and how this all relates to Applied Innovation and what we offer.
10 Signs it’s time for a New Managed IT Service Provider
1. Unsatisfactory Performance
Frequent failures to meet service level agreements, recurring downtime, and subpar support can disrupt your operations and hinder your business’s growth. A reliable provider should consistently deliver on their promises.
2. Limited Expertise
As technology advances, your IT needs may evolve. A capable provider should possess the expertise to support new technologies and services required for your business to stay competitive. If your current provider lacks these skills, it’s a clear sign to explore alternatives.
3. Scalability Issues
A growing business requires scalable IT solutions. If your current provider cannot adapt and expand its services to meet your organization’s growth, it’s time to consider a more flexible partner.
4. Security Concerns
In today’s threat-filled cyber landscape, robust cybersecurity is non-negotiable. If your current provider cannot adequately protect your organization from data breaches and cyber threats or lacks a comprehensive security strategy, it’s essential to look for a provider who can provide robust protection.
5. Outdated Technology
Sticking with outdated systems can hinder your business’s efficiency and competitiveness. Your IT provider should keep up with the latest technological advancements to help your organization thrive in a fast-paced digital environment.
6. Communication Problems
Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful partnership. Frequent communication issues, response delays, or a lack of transparency can disrupt the flow of your business operations and should prompt a search for better alternatives.
7. High Costs
While cost isn’t the sole determining factor, if your current provider consistently charges more than the market rate for similar services and fails to deliver the expected value, it’s prudent to explore the other cost-effective options.
8. Lack of Strategic Alignment
Your IT provider should align with your business goals and offer strategic guidance on technology investments. If your current provider doesn’t offer such alignment and support, it might be time to find a provider who does.
9. Contract Renewal
When your contract with the IT provider is up for renewal, it’s a natural time to evaluate their performance and consider alternatives. Review the terms, including any exit clauses, to make an informed decision.
10. Legal or Compliance Issues
Regulatory compliance is crucial to avoid legal trouble. If your current IT provider is non-compliant with relevant regulations or fails to provide adequate documentation for audits, your organization’s risk increases. A provider that ensures compliance is a must.
Choosing a New Managed IT Service Provider
Before making the decision to hire a new provider, it’s essential to conduct a thorough assessment. Consider your organization’s needs and long-term goals. Engage in a detailed selection process, ask for references, and ensure that the new provider aligns well with your strategy. Transitioning to a new provider should be a well-planned and executed process to minimize disruptions to your business operations.
Why Choose Applied?
Your choice of a managed IT service provider is a critical one. Applied Innovation understands the importance of this decision and offers top-notch managed IT services that align with your business goals and needs. Whether you require on-premises, cloud, or hybrid solutions, we are dedicated to delivering the highest level of service to help your organization thrive in today’s digital landscape. Our expert team, flexible options, predictable costs, and proactive security approach provide the support and peace of mind you need. Applied Innovation delivers the highest level of expertise for your network, security, voice, data backups, help desk, and more – at a fraction of the cost to do it yourself.
But more than cost savings, Applied Innovation Managed IT gives you peace of mind, so your business runs securely, compliantly, and reliably, 24 hours a day. So, if you’re contemplating a change, consider how Applied Innovation can take your IT infrastructure to the next level.
Applied is focused on customer service and dedicating experts to each client to help them find the best internet provider to flawlessly implement a voice and carrier service that achieves your company’s goals while being mindful of costs. We pride ourselves on understanding your business requirements and goals to improve collaboration and achieve what you need for your employees and clients.
We’re always available to support your unique technology, imaging, or automation needs. Applied Innovation experts are just a call, click, or visit away with offices in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Tampa, Florida. Ready to take the next step? Send us a message below: