Without the proper IT support, Stockton companies can experience costly downtime, security breaches, and other IT issues that can negatively impact their bottom line. It’s therefore crucial for these businesses to choose an IT support provider that meets their specific needs and requirements. Here are seven important characteristics they should look for in an IT support provider.
In-depth technical expertise
Considering that your company can experience a host of technical issues, it makes sense to partner with an IT support provider that has extensive technical knowledge and expertise. The best way to check the technical proficiency of an IT support provider is by looking at their certifications. Certifications to look for include Microsoft Credentials, CompTIA A+ and Network+, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional. Their partnerships will also clue you in on the types of IT products they can provide support for.
Additionally, their service portfolio can give you a good understanding of their technical capabilities. For instance, an IT support provider that also offers cloud solutions is likely to have a strong grasp of cloud-based technologies and can assist in setting up and maintaining your company’s cloud infrastructure.
Prompt response and resolution times
IT issues should be dealt with as quickly as possible to prevent downtime and revenue losses. That’s why Stockton companies should have an IT support provider that promises quick response and resolution times. It’s best to inquire about their average response and resolution times as well as the escalation process for more critical issues. IT support providers will usually outline their expected response and resolution times in their service level agreements, so review those carefully before making a decision.
Ideally, response times for critical issues should be within an hour, and non-urgent issues should be addressed within a day. Resolution times, on the other hand, will vary depending on the complexity of the issue, but a good IT support provider should be able to provide an estimated time frame for resolution that aligns with your business needs.
Many top-notch IT support companies will offer remote help desk support, which can significantly reduce response and resolution times. But for more complex issues, it’s nice to have an IT support provider that also offers on-site assistance when needed.Â
Industry experience
Different industries will naturally have unique IT needs and challenges. Healthcare companies may need help troubleshooting their electronic health record systems, while nonprofits require assistance implementing their volunteer management software. Whatever industry your business is in, it’s crucial to work with an IT support provider that has experience working with companies like yours. They’ll be more familiar with the specific challenges you face and can provide tailored solutions that align with your goals.
Proactive approach to IT support
Subpar IT support companies often operate on a reactive basis, only addressing issues when they arise. However, an outstanding IT support provider takes a proactive approach to managing your company’s technology. That means they regularly monitor your systems and address even the smallest issues before they become major problems.Â
What’s more, when issues arise, top IT support providers don’t just fix the surface-level problem; they’ll also troubleshoot and identify the root cause to prevent similar issues from happening in the future. You can tell if an IT support provider is proactive through their service offerings, such as 24/7 network monitoring, regular system maintenance, and patch management services.
High availability
Stockton businesses rely heavily on their IT systems for smooth operations, and because technical issues can occur at any time, it’s vital to have an IT support provider that can provide assistance whenever you need it. Look for a company that offers 24/7 support or has extended business hours to ensure they’ll be available when you need them most.
Strong connections with leading vendors
IT support providers with strong partnerships and relationships with top vendors can offer a range of benefits that businesses can leverage to their advantage. These include better pricing on IT products, preferential treatment when it comes to service and support, and access to the latest technologies before they hit the market. Plus, an IT support provider that is familiar with a vendor’s products and services can provide better support and troubleshooting assistance during technical issues.
Good track record with clients
High customer satisfaction levels are a solid indicator of an IT support provider’s quality and reliability, so look for an IT support provider with an excellent track record with Stockton clients. You can gauge this by reading reviews and testimonials from current or past clients, as well as checking if the company has any awards or recognitions for their IT services. You should also speak directly with current clients to get a firsthand account of their experience working with the IT support provider.Â
Finding all aforementioned qualities in an IT support provider may seem like a tall order, but you shouldn’t settle for anything less when it comes to managing your company’s technology. At Varsity Technologies, we pride ourselves on ticking all the boxes that make up a top-notch IT support provider. Contact us today to give your Stockton business the IT support it deserves.
