Every small business owner is familiar with the adage, “Sometimes you’re the boss and sometimes you’re the horse”, which translates into the understanding that whatever work or worry may be called for, the owner must deal with it and is ultimately accountable. While this may ring true in small organizations or startups, as a business begins to mature and recognize the value of time, it becomes clear that just because the business owner can do something, it doesn’t mean she should. This is perhaps most crystalized when it comes to the technology supporting a small or medium-sized business. Many successful business owners have figured out that, in some specific cases, it’s best to delegate the responsibility to a professional and focus energy on running the business. These specific cases usually include accountants, lawyers and Information Technology (IT) professionals, and with good reason. Accountants, lawyers and IT professionals devoted years to their craft, training and credentials. Their wide breadth and depth of experience lends an advantage to any situation that can save a business money, headache and valuable time, but only if you have the right professional in place.
When it comes to technology, business owners must ask themselves, "Do I need to step in more than I should to make certain our technology is safe, efficient, and proper?" Listed here are some common technology challenges that business owners should not have to get involved with , but often do because they lack the right technology partner.
IT Vendor Management A valuable IT MSP will develop the necessary relationships with the many IT vendors supplying goods and services to the business, such as Internet Service Providers (ISP), mobile devices suppliers, computer equipment vendors and more. More than that, the MSP will manage the costs, review invoices and service quality, allowing the business owner to enjoy reliable service without the need to manage the plethora of vendors.
Routine Software Updates
Most software providers release regular updates to improve the performance and security of their products. Business owners should not worry about when or how to update their software because a good MSP will automate this and ensure there is no disruption to business operations.
Infrastructure Maintenance Whether a business relies on physical hardware in the office or cloud services for their network infrastructure, regular monitoring and maintenance is required to keep the components secure, operational, and performing at high effectiveness. A business owner should not worry about when maintenance was last conducted or if the most recent patch should be applied. This is the job of the MSP.
Data Backup Today it’s quite common for MSPs to automate data backup and policy setup, so business owners don't need to worry about how, where or how often data backup is complete. However, it is still important to review backup policies and ensure they meet the business's needs.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is important and it’s the job of the MSP to put the necessary safeguards in place to protect the business and ensure there is the right balance between best practices and unrestricted productivity. Business owners must approve the policies that are appropriate for their business, but it’s the MSP that must implement those policies.
Device Compatibility With the increasing prevalence of cloud-based software, device compatibility is less of an issue. Most cloud-based software is designed to be used on any device with an internet connection, but only if it is properly configured. The right MSP will ensure all software packages used by the company are compatible and work together to improve productivity.
Professionalism When it comes to choosing an IT MSP to take the worry out of the business owner’s day, look for the signs that indicate the MSP is a proven professional with the capabilities to remove the worry and allow business owners to focus on their business.
Places High Value on Personal Relationships
Responsiveness
Proactive Approach
Strategic Guidance
Reliable Support
Customized Solutions
Transparent Pricing
If your business is questioning the amount of worry going into IT management, call us to understand how our White Glove IT Service & Support can help your business maximize technology and productivity with a safe and managed approach, all while removing the worry.
We offer personalized technology services and support. Roark Tech Services is an expert in fit-for-purpose technology solutions exclusively for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses. Always consult with us first. If you don’t have an IT Partner that you can trust to give you the right support and advice, we’d love to help. Contact us.