Though it’s clear that security breaches are an issue for large corporations and organizations, they are also a major issue for small businesses as well. If you’re like most business owners and managers, you want to choose the right IT solution for your business model. However, not being an IT expert yourself, you’re likely unsure how to go about it.
What to Look For
Professionalism
The on boarding process will show you whether an IT company is professional. They should provide you with a designated team member that you can always use as your first point of contact in every situation. In some situations, however, you or your staff might just want to speak with the help desk. It’s important to note that good IT teams clearly define their help desk policies in writing.
Your potential team should also offer a seamless service transition, with a clear outline of the information they need from you or from your previous IT services provider.
Coverage
Many issues that arise between IT providers and the companies they serve occur because managers and business owners don’t understand exactly what their service contract covers. The best way to avoid these issues is to understand exactly what your potential IT team covers up front. Ask for a Service Line Up and a Device Inventory. These documents will outline exactly how your potential IT team will handle service delivery in the different technology areas of your company.
Mobile Security
If mobile security isn’t something you’ve been thinking about, you should make it a priority. Yes, network security is typically the primary issue for most companies. However, more and more, employees are using mobile devices for both personal and business use. Even simple tasks like:
- Accessing the company network,
- Emailing clients,
- Texting clients, or
- Transporting files
…can put company data at risk. Your potential outsourced computer support team should help you design a mobile security plan that includes:
- Provision of or help with planning compliance training,
- Help with choosing a BYOD or COPE device policy, and
- Device security, backup and recovery protocol implementation
Disaster Recovery
There is no question that every company needs a good backup and recovery plan. Make sure that your potential IT company provides you with a backup and recovery plan in writing, and that it covers your office’s hardware, peripherals and mobile devices.
We believe that it’s important that you and your staff understand everything we have to offer, before you sign on the dotted line. Having it in writing gives you proof, but clarity and understanding give you the peace of mind you need to focus on your business. Contact us today!
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