Running a business successfully requires you to rely on IT solutions and services in various capacities. However, trying to evaluate all of the different options and determining what you actually need from a provider to run your business well can be a challenge. You know that you need IT services to help you navigate all the modern technology demands that companies face, so you need more than just a support line you can call when things break. You want access to proactive IT that will help you advance your business. At the same time, you know that you probably do not need everything that IT companies are trying to sell to you.
The necessary services that will benefit your business will likely differ from one company to the next. However, we will walk you through the essential core IT solutions you want to ensure that your business has the support it needs.
IT Solutions and Services To Incorporate at a Minimum
You will want to consider how the different IT services fit your business model. This will help you make the best decisions to support your business. However, you will likely want to begin by building a list of core services, including the following IT solutions.
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1. Help desk with remote support
Your company relies on a wealth of technology for daily operations. Not only do you have computers and all the relevant software and services, but you also have your scanners, printers, and phone systems. Therefore, you want IT services that include a help desk you can contact when needed for assistance with installing, setting up, and maintaining the technology.
2. Cybersecurity
Data has become a central component of running a business in today’s business world. You use it to make important decisions about the strategies and action plans you need to move forward. This data comes with a huge responsibility: your employees and clients depend on you to protect and secure it. Any IT package must include network IT security services and cybersecurity.
3. Backup and recovery
Even with cybersecurity best practices, the risk remains for data breaches or other means of data loss or damage. Businesses must take backups seriously. You do not want to neglect the importance of this step in protecting your data. If anything negatively impacts the data, your backup will provide what you need to keep the business moving forward.
Make sure that the IT solutions package you get includes offsite backups and that they are regularly tested. That way, you will not be caught unaware if you end up calling upon the backup.
4. Cloud solutions
Cloud solutions have rapidly become popular options for companies because of their benefits. Specifically, users experience flexibility and improved security through the cloud. They can access their data and workflows remotely, allowing them to continue moving forward even if something keeps them from getting into the office. Companies also appreciate the ability to create improved business budgets with cloud services.
Look for a quality cloud solutions provider offering Azure support plans so your business can also take advantage of all the cloud has to offer.
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5. Business phone services
If you have VOIP or cloud phones, it’s often a safe bet will also want your IT provider to manage them. If something goes wrong with your IT services and software, you want to have one vendor who can help you manage software updates, and patching and integration with the rest of your systems, rather than having to coordinate between two or more because of a separate VOIP provider.
6. IT consulting
Technology continues to change rapidly with new capabilities and expectations emerging all the time. A consulting component to your IT services gives you strategic guidance that evaluates your needs and company direction with different capabilities and available options. The outcome is a long-term vision of what will most benefit your organization and how to implement it.
7. Training
Remember, that to employ technology successfully, you not only need to choose between the different options, but you also need to incorporate it into your workflow and then train your employees. Beyond training for purposes of adoption, cybersecurity awareness training is critical to keeping your network secure. Over 80% of successful ransomware attacks start at the employee level.
Getting IT Support Should Not be a Hassle
The right IT services will help your business excel. The key is knowing whether the provider is going to live up to the expectations. Be clear in articulating what you think you need. Listen to what they recommend – and ask questions if you’re not confident or comfortable with their recommendations.
Be sure to ask potential IT service providers specific questions like:
- What is your process for handling support requests?
- How long is the average ticket response time?
- How long is the average ticket resolution time?
- What level of support will you provide if we get hit with ransomware or a phishing attack?
- How are you securing our network?
- How do you secure your network to ensure that hackers can’t access us through you?
- Are offsite backups included? If so, how often are they tested?
Without well-supported IT, you can’t do business. Make sure you have the support you need.
