Is IT support really worth it? It’s a question that lots of companies were asking themselves back in 2019 when the world was a much simpler place. Today, as businesses are recognising that digital capabilities are about so much more than just productivity and efficiency, IT support has become a lifeline. But what should you be looking for? Here’s our quick insider’s guide.

A Range Of Products And Services

Some IT support providers offer one straightforward package. However, this isn’t ideal for many small businesses, many of which have unique or specialised requirements. Looking for a company that has a range of options on offer, including established partnerships with suppliers such as Vusion, who can offer an extended range of choices, will enhance your agility.

When selecting a provider, ask yourself what your organisation needs in terms of digital infrastructure, and find one that has the confidence to offer software that matches your precise needs. If in doubt, ask.

Stay Local

When it comes to IT support, working with a local provider can prove the difference between a speedy resolution and a costly delay. For any organisation, minutes mean money, so having an expert on the doorstep is a wise investment. Local providers will also have a deeper insight into the surrounding climate, such as council changes that may affect how your business operates. To get the benefits of a local support team, aim to find one within a 30-mile radius. This will mean that in the event of an emergency, your team can be with you within minutes.

Unlimited Support

From queries about software to problems with hardware, the rapidly evolving world of IT has always required strong and readily available support. Trying to troubleshoot IT problems alone drains productivity, impacts efficiency, and can result in costly tangles. The ideal IT support service will have an expert on the phone from Monday to Friday. When selecting the best option, aim for one that offers unlimited calls, so that you always have the confidence of knowing that a specialist is within reach.

Proactive Management

IT issues don’t have to be a headache. IT support services can offer proactive monitoring and maintenance that spots problems before they happen. This might mean ensuring that software is both optimised and updated, or that potential cyber threats specific to your industry are identified and dealt with before they become sinister. Look for a company that takes an active interest in your organisation, and which is prepared to go the extra mile to form a solid support partnership.

Specialised Services

Today’s IT landscape is all about specialisation. If you are a small business, there are only limited gains from teaming up with an IT support service provider that is used to working with nationals and multinationals. The network requirements are different, the system demands are different, and the budgetary capabilities are different. Specialisation is about focused, targeted support that meets your bespoke needs.

When opting for the specialised approach, aim for a support service that has experience with working with companies that are the same size and type as your own. This way, you’ll benefit from an informed approach that saves both time and money.

What next?

For more information about how your company could benefit from teaming up with a friendly, local, and specialised IT support service, get in touch with F1 Support today by calling 01483 550930.

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