March 17, 2025
Imagine you and your team arriving at work, ready to tackle the day's tasks, when suddenly the Internet goes down, emails stop working, and productivity comes to a standstill. What would you do? For most businesses, when the "Internet goes down," operations cease, which can lead to significant losses in productivity and sales. Consider the MGM data breach over the summer: electronic room keys failed, casinos shut down, and online restaurant reservations became unavailable. That downtime cost MGM millions.
However, downtime is just one way inadequate IT support can hinder your business. Add in constant frustrations like forgotten passwords, malware infections, or difficulties accessing shared files, and the issues can quickly accumulate.
Too often, business owners find themselves spending large amounts on IT support that struggles to resolve even the simplest problems. These so-called "IT experts," who promised top-notch service at low prices, often spend more time idly waiting than actively addressing issues, relying on you to inform them when something is wrong.
You shouldn't have to endure tech frustrations and reactive IT support that only responds after problems occur. It's time to demand better and eliminate tech issues before they arise.
To assist you, we've developed a checklist of essential standards for anyone managing your network. Evaluate how your current provider measures up:
- Do they answer their phone live and respond to emergencies within a specific timeframe? In a crisis, waiting on hold or leaving voicemails isn't acceptable.
- Are they easily reachable and responsive for non-emergencies, providing responses within an hour? Everyday tech issues shouldn't leave your team in limbo.
- Do they proactively monitor, patch, and update your network's critical security settings? If you're uncertain whether this is done regularly, you may be at risk.
- Do they provide proof that all your data is backed up, including laptops and devices? A reliable IT provider ensures nothing is overlooked.
- Do they meet with you at least quarterly to discuss projects, performance, and improvements? Excellent IT support not only fixes problems but also assists in future planning.
- Do their invoices clearly outline what you are paying for? No one appreciates unexpected charges, especially regarding billing.
- Do they explain their actions in straightforward language, avoiding technical jargon, and take the time to answer your questions? You shouldn't need a translator to understand your IT provider.
- Do they proactively address cybersecurity, recommend solutions, and offer employee training? Cybersecurity is essential, and educating employees is a vital defense layer.
- Have they provided you with complete network documentation, including administrative passwords? If they are withholding critical information, it's a significant red flag.
- Do their technicians arrive punctually, dress professionally, and leave you feeling confident after each interaction? Professionalism is crucial; if you dread calling them, it may be time to look elsewhere.
Bonus Points: Is Your IT Provider Going Above and Beyond?
- Do they conduct regular disaster recovery drills to ensure your backups function correctly? A backup is ineffective if it fails when needed most.
- Are they assisting you in planning for scalable growth with technology that adapts alongside your business? The right IT partner ensures your systems evolve with your company.
- Do they provide advanced cybersecurity tools, such as endpoint detection and AI-driven monitoring? Cyber threats are constantly changing, and your protection should adapt as well.
- Do they track and optimize your network's performance to avoid bottlenecks and downtime? Efficiency is crucial in today's competitive environment.
Time to Raise the Bar
If your current IT provider doesn't meet these criteria, you're likely paying for inadequate service, which could jeopardize your business. From security risks to lost productivity, poor 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 10-Minute Conversation 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 435-313-8132 to get started.
Let's make tech problems a thing of
the past.
