Change can be hard and time-consuming, but sometimes it’s necessary. This is especially true when it comes to changing your relationship with your IT services provider. But how do you know when it’s time to move on?
There can be many reasons to start exploring a relationship with a new IT services provider, but the following seven are some of the most common–and critical–signs it’s time to say goodbye.
1. Your downtime is increasing
Occasional downtime is a fact of life with tech. But when you’re working with a managed services provider (MSP), you shouldn’t find yourself face-to-face with increasing rounds of downtime–something that directly impacts your bottom line. If your IT partner can’t give you a good explanation as to why downtime is increasing, they don’t have a solution, or they aren’t that concerned, it’s time to find someone who can better meet your needs.
2. Response is slow
Things happen, and when they do, you need the peace of mind that someone is there to take care of the situation. Ticket response time is important. If your IT services provider is slow to respond to every ticket that comes their way, it’s costing you valuable time and money. You need to know that your problems are addressed in a timely manner and, if they can’t be, there should be open communication around the problem and the solution being implemented.
3. Problems are repeating
Some problems might take a few tries to solve. But every problem shouldn’t take multiple attempts. You need to know that issues are being taken care of and your business tech is functional and safe. If you find yourself increasingly questioning whether things are fixed correctly and you find yourself with the same problem over and over, there’s an even bigger problem at hand.
4. They’re more reactive than proactive
It’s no secret the workplace is increasingly one of flexibility, but that flexibility can’t exist without strong IT. From Microsoft Teams to communications solutions that let employees answer their desk phone on tUnless you’re utilizing a break/fix IT services provider, your IT partner should utilize a proactive approach. This means working to fix problems before they start and creating a long-term vision for your IT that aligns with your business goals. You shouldn’t just hear from them when there’s a problem.
5. They don’t take the time to get to know the business
Every business is different, even businesses within the same industry. An MSP should be a partner in your business. This means they should ask questions, be interested in the ins-and-outs of your operations and how IT plays a role, and be an overall strategic partner who can help you incorporate IT with your business goals.
6. Communication is poor
You should always feel comfortable reaching out to your IT partner. Tech is complicated, and if you don’t feel like they’re taking the time to explain things, don’t try to answer your questions in a way you can understand, talk down to you, take a defensive approach when you ask questions, or flat out don’t take the time to respond to you–they’re not the right vendor.
7. You’re not happy
Maybe you can’t pinpoint exactly what’s wrong with the relationship. Maybe it’s a combination of problems. Maybe you just don’t feel confident they can help your business and keep it protected, especially in the face of a cyber threat. No matter the cause, not being happy is a valid, important reason to explore a relationship with a different IT partner.
Is your IT partner relationship feeling rocky? AxiaTP is an IT services provider Indianapolis businesses trust. Let’s explore how we can work together to achieve your business goals; book a free consultation.
