March 17, 2025
Imagine arriving at work with your team, ready to take on the day's challenges, only to find that the Internet has gone down, emails are inoperable, and productivity comes to a standstill. What would your response be? For many businesses, when the Internet fails, operations grind to a halt, potentially costing thousands in lost productivity and sales. Consider the MGM data breach that occurred over the summer: electronic room keys malfunctioned, casinos were forced to shut down, and online restaurant reservations became unavailable. This downtime resulted in millions of dollars in losses for MGM.
However, downtime is just one aspect of how inadequate IT support can hinder your business. Add persistent issues such as forgotten passwords, malware infections, and difficulties accessing shared files, and the resulting inefficiencies can become overwhelming.
Often, business owners find themselves spending considerable amounts on IT support that struggles to resolve even the simplest problems. These so-called "IT experts," who promise top-tier service at low prices, frequently end up being more reactive than proactive, waiting for you to inform them of issues instead of addressing them before they escalate.
You don't have to endure tech frustrations and reactive IT support that only responds after problems arise. It's time to seek better solutions and proactively eliminate tech issues before they occur.
To assist you, we've compiled a checklist of essential standards that any network manager should meet. Evaluate how your current provider measures up:
- Do they answer calls live and respond to emergencies within a specified timeframe?
In a crisis, waiting on hold or leaving voicemails is not an option.
- Are they accessible and responsive for non-emergency issues, providing replies within an hour?
Routine tech problems shouldn't leave your team in uncertainty.
- Do they actively monitor, patch, and update your network's critical security settings?
If you're unsure about the frequency of these actions, your network may be at risk.
- Do they offer proof that all your data, including laptops and devices, is backed up?
A reliable IT provider ensures that nothing is overlooked.
- Do they meet with you at least quarterly to discuss projects, performance, and improvements?
Effective IT support not only resolves issues but also helps you plan for the future.
- Do their invoices clearly outline what you are paying for?
No one appreciates unexpected charges, especially regarding billing.
- Do they communicate in straightforward language rather than technical jargon, and take the time to address your questions?
You shouldn't need a translator to understand your IT provider.
- Do they proactively engage in discussions about cybersecurity, recommend solutions, and provide employee training?
Cybersecurity is essential, and employee training is a crucial component of defense.
- Have they provided you with complete network documentation, including administrative passwords?
If they are withholding critical information, it's a significant warning sign.
- Do their technicians arrive punctually, dress professionally, and leave you feeling confident after each interaction?
Professionalism is important; if you feel uneasy each time you contact them, it may be time to reconsider.
Bonus Points: Is Your IT Provider Exceeding Expectations?
- Do they perform regular disaster recovery drills to ensure your backups function correctly?
A backup is ineffective if it fails when you need it the most.
- Are they assisting you in planning for scalable growth with technology that adapts as your business evolves?
The right IT partner ensures your systems grow alongside your company.
- Do they provide advanced cybersecurity tools, such as endpoint detection and AI-driven monitoring?
Cyber threats are constantly changing, and your defenses should evolve accordingly.
- Do they monitor and optimize your network's performance to prevent bottlenecks and downtime?
Efficiency is crucial in today's competitive environment.
Time To Raise The Bar
If your current IT provider fails to meet these criteria, you are likely paying for substandard service, which could jeopardize your business. From security risks to lost productivity, inadequate IT support is more than just an inconvenience; it's a liability.
Don't settle for anything less than a partner who prioritizes your business's success.
Schedule a free Discovery Call today to see how we can eliminate your tech headaches and ensure your
business runs smoothly. Click
here to schedule now or call us at 907-865-3100 to get started.
Let's make tech problems a thing of
the past.
