It is often said that the choices we make determine our future. Therefore, choosing the right managed IT service provider is crucial for the success of your business.  

Think of why you wanted a managed IT service provider for your business in the first place. You want to offload yourself to focus on other core business activities or upgrade your team through external expertise to increase team productivity.  

But what if you often get back to your IT provider for every issue?  

Don’t you think you’ll get distracted?  

For example, a business with revenue between $2M and $4M can cost between $301,000 and $400,000 for one hour of downtime.  

So, was the disaster planning insufficient?  

Wasn’t the strategy thoroughly tested before implementation? 

And, if this is the case, then yes, you have relied on the wrong managed IT service provider.  

Therefore, to save you from this massacre in the future, here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) that can help you make an informed decision about the right MSP that aligns with your unique requirements and goals. 

What services does your shortlisted managed IT service provider offer?

Managed IT service providers offer a range of services. They offer network management, cybersecurity, cloud solutions, data backup and recovery, help desk support, and IT consulting. They offer tailored services to meet your specific business needs. 

How can managed IT services benefit my business?  

Managed IT services provide numerous benefits- improved cybersecurity, proactive monitoring and maintenance, access to specialized expertise, scalability, cost savings, enhanced productivity, and streamlined IT operations. These services allow businesses to focus on core competencies while leveraging technology for growth and innovation. 

What critical factors should I consider when choosing a managed IT service provider?  

Some critical factors include- 

1. The provider’s experience and reputation 
2. Expertise in relevant technologies 
3. Service level agreements (SLAs) 
4. Clientele and their feedback 
5. Scalability 
6. Data security measures 
7. Compliance capabilities  
8. Cost-effectiveness.  
9. Similar projects they have worked on earlier. 

Don’t forget to evaluate their ability to understand and align with your business goals. 

Can managed IT service providers handle my industry-specific compliance requirements? 

Many managed IT service providers have experience working with various industries and can assist with compliance requirements such as HIPAA for healthcare or GDPR for data protection. You must discuss your specific compliance needs with potential providers to ensure they can meet them. 

How do managed IT services handle cybersecurity threats?

Of over 1,300 leaders surveyed by a leading networking company, 96% experienced at least one breach or incident in the past year. 33% experienced a breach-related operational disruption. Therefore, you must check for Managed IT service providers that employ a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity like- 

1. Implementing firewalls 
2. Antivirus software 
3. Intrusion detection systems 
4. Regular security updates 
5. Employee training 
6. Proactive monitoring 
7. Risk assessments  
8. Develop incident response plans to address any potential breaches 

How does pricing work for managed IT services?

Pricing structures can vary among providers. Some may offer fixed monthly fees based on the services provided, while others may have a tiered pricing structure based on the size and complexity of your IT environment. Clear the pricing model and any additional costs or potential scalability options. 

But do not forget, managed IT services save money.  

CompTIA found that 50% of companies who engaged an MSP saved 1-24% in IT costs, 33% saved 25-49%, and 13% saved more than 50%. 

What level of customer support can I expect from a managed IT service provider?

Reputable managed IT service providers offer reliable customer support through various channels, including phone, email, and ticketing systems. It’s vital to clarify the provider’s response time, escalation procedures, and availability to ensure they can meet your support needs. 

Oops! Servers crash, disasters strike, and cyber threats lurk around. But don’t worry, 451 Research found that 45% of big businesses are teaming up with managed security services providers, while 42% are beefing up their security software for cloud data protection. That’s why the industry is shifting, with 59% of IT services ditching the old break-fix model for managed service contracts.  

Managed IT services are booming, and guess what? WaferWire stands out from the pack. We offer transparent pricing and take the time to understand your organization, so we can tailor our recommendations for you. From everyday IT needs to special projects, we have you covered. Let’s conquer IT challenges together! Visit our website at www.waferwire.com or call (+1) 206 792 9930 to get started.