March 17, 2025
Imagine arriving at work with your team, ready to tackle the day's tasks, when suddenly the Internet fails, emails stop functioning, and productivity comes to a standstill. What would your response be? When the Internet goes down, many businesses find their operations halted, leading to thousands in lost productivity and sales. Consider the MGM data breach from the summer: electronic room keys malfunctioned, casinos closed, and online restaurant reservations were inaccessible. That downtime resulted in millions in losses for MGM.
However, downtime is just one aspect of how inadequate IT support can hinder your business. Add in persistent issues like forgotten passwords, malware infections, or difficulties accessing shared files, and the inefficiencies can quickly accumulate.
Business owners often find themselves spending significant amounts on IT support that struggles to resolve even basic problems. These so-called "IT experts," who promise exceptional service at low rates, frequently spend more time idly waiting than actively addressing issues—waiting for you to inform them of a problem.
You shouldn't have to endure tech frustrations and reactive IT support that only appears after issues arise. It's time to demand higher standards and prevent tech problems before they occur.
To assist you, we've developed a checklist of vital standards that anyone managing your network should meet. Evaluate how your current provider measures up:
- Do they answer their phone live and respond to emergencies withinminutes?
In a crisis, being on hold or leaving voicemails is not an option.
- Are they accessible and responsive for non-emergencies, with replies within an hour?
Routine tech issues shouldn't leave your team in uncertainty.
- Do they proactively monitor, patch, and update your network's critical security settings?
If you're uncertain about the frequency of these actions, you may be at risk.
- Do they provide evidence that all your data is backed up, including laptops and devices?
A reliable IT provider ensures that nothing is overlooked.
- Do they meet with you at least quarterly to review projects, performance, and improvements?
Effective IT support not only resolves problems but also aids in future planning.
- Do their invoices clearly outline what you're being charged for?
No one appreciates unexpected costs, particularly in billing.
- Do they communicate in straightforward language, avoiding technical jargon, and take the time to address your questions?
You shouldn't need a translator to comprehend your IT provider.
- Do they proactively address cybersecurity, recommend solutions, and offer employee training?
Cybersecurity is essential, and educating employees is a vital line of defense.
- Have they supplied you with complete network documentation, including admin passwords?
If they are withholding critical information, it's a significant warning sign.
- Do their technicians arrive punctually, dress professionally, and leave you feeling assured after each interaction?
Professionalism is crucial; if you feel uneasy every time you reach out, it may be time to reconsider.
Bonus Points: Is Your IT Provider Going Above and Beyond?
- Do they conduct regular disaster recovery drills to verify that your backups function correctly?
A backup is ineffective if it fails when you need it the most.
- Are they assisting you in planning for scalable growth with technology that adapts alongside your business?
The right IT partner ensures your systems evolve with your company.
- Do they provide advanced cybersecurity tools, such as endpoint detection and AI-driven monitoring?
Cyber threats are continuously changing—your protection should adapt as well.
- Do they monitor and optimize your network's performance to avert bottlenecks and downtime?
Efficiency is crucial in today's competitive environment.
Time to Raise the Bar
If your current IT provider doesn't meet these standards, you may be paying for inadequate service, which could jeopardize your business. From security risks to lost productivity, poor IT support is more than a nuisance—it's a liability.
Don't settle for anything less than a partner committed to your business's success.
Schedule a free Initial Consultation today to see how we can eliminate your tech headaches and ensure your
business runs smoothly. Click
here to schedule now or call us at 312-564-5446 to get started.
Let's make tech problems a thing of
the past.
