Without IT services, most modern businesses would struggle to function. Without the ability to handle customer service outside of regular office hours or remotely, they would struggle to fulfil orders. Without the right cloud systems and software in place, employees would be unable to collaborate effectively on projects.

Outside of day-to-day operations, IT services are also key to keeping your business safe. Without persistent cybersecurity measures, you leave your business open to attack, and without help on hand to assess and solve problems, you are risking the reputation and security of your business.

As such, choosing the IT service provider that is right for you is a key business decision – here are some of the things you should consider when switching providers or choosing a new one.

Security

In the summer of 2020, UK firms were attacked every 45 seconds, and as more companies have employees working from home, cybersecurity is something every company should be getting to grips with. Is your IT service provider as serious about it as they should be?

At Kalamazoo IT, security is at the forefront of our service. All our engineers are SafeContractor registered, our security systems monitor your network at all times, and we install all updates automatically to ensure minimal downtime.

We also offer a free network audit pre-contract to find issues, assess risk and recommend fixes.

Minimal downtime and proactive service

When you’re faced with a business-critical IT issue, you need to be secure in the knowledge that your service provider is ready and available to fix it. Ask them about previous times when they’ve had to work to a tight schedule to solve an unexpected crisis, and how long it takes on average for a support ticket to be resolved.

As well as this, not all IT issues can be solved remotely. If you need a field engineer to come and address a problem onsite, how quickly can they respond and will they be prepared enough to solve the problem then and there?

Another thing to consider is how proactive their service is. It’s all very well being able to respond to the issue as they appear, but how about stopping them before they become an issue? With modern analytics tools, and experience dealing with IT issues in a range of different areas and industries, the right IT service company will have the foresight to see and address problems before they arise.

Customer service

Business today is rarely 9 to 5. With customers and clients using your IT services at all times, you need to be secure that your IT service provider can match this.

At Kalamazoo IT, we do all we can to make sure we can address your issues as soon as possible. As well as proactive networks audits and security measures, we also offer multiple ways to get in touch with us including 24/7 helpdesk support, email support and remote assistance sessions. We also use a detailed ticket portal so you can track the progress of service requests and have real-time service status of key services like Cloudflare and Office 365 to give you clear and easy information on the systems you are using.

Outside our regular service, our expert engineers and staff are always on hand to discuss any new ideas, changes or software you think would benefit your business.

Consultancy

While longer-term consultancy may not be on your IT service company wishlist right now, but the right IT service provider will be full of expert advice and ideas when you need it. Be sure to look for a provider that is proactive and looking to develop your IT infrastructure alongside you.

Location

While many IT issues can be solved remotely, sometimes a problem can only be solved with an onsite visit from a field engineer. When considering what service provider to choose, consider their range of operations – will you be able to have personal contact with the support team if needed, and how quickly can they come to help you address problems. At Kalamazoo IT, as well as our head office in Birmingham, we also have 9 spare parts hubs and directly employed field engineers across the UK to ensure we can be there when you need us.

Industry knowledge

Depending on the industry you work in, you may have a number of strict requirements and regulations you have to work under – a good IT service provider will work with you to understand and apply them or have the necessary specialist knowledge to make sure you are meeting your obligations.

Your trusted IT partner

With experience in delivering first rate IT services for over 50 years, Kalamazoo IT is your new partner in IT service management. With a dedicated team of experts working from both or Birmingham headquarters and across the country, we’re here to work with you to develop and grow your business.

To find out more about how we can work together, get in touch with us at the address [email protected], give us a call on 0121 312 0801 or fill out our enquiry form and one of our experts will be in touch with you within 24 hours.