Selecting the right IT partner is a big decision and takes careful consideration
Outsourcing IT is no longer viewed as just a cost-saving exercise. It’s an opportunity for businesses to embrace innovation in highly competitive markets.
In this post I’m going to outline some simple steps to take when when choosing your supplier. The reason it’s so important is because you are essentially handing over the keys to your business. There is a lot of trust involved so having a robust decision making process is essential.
What key criteria should you consider when selecting your IT partner of choice?
Customer Experience and Service
IT Support requires excellent customer service skills. How has the experience with the potential supplier been since you engaged with them? Have they been informative? Have they been proactive? Did they take the time to understand your business and needs? Do you feel you could have a positive and productive working relationship with them?
Have you taken references from more than 2 customers?
Speaking to a suppliers’ existing customers is a good way to find out more about the business.
You should ask them:
- Why did you choose this vendor?
- What services do they provide for you?
- How effective are they?
Another tip is asking them a situational question:
- Ask them about a time the supplier made a mistake. How did they rectify it?
- How did they resolve a particularly tricky problem for the business?
Innovation
Did they put forward a proposal that champions leading technology solutions that works for your business?
Do they have several long standing client relationships?
This is one way to understand if they are focused on new sales and short term wins, or if they are truly thinking of the long term success of their clients.
Do they have security clearances?
Security clearance is something that is often overlooked. With access to sensitive company information it’s always worth asking what level of security clearances they have. For example, a CRB Check.
Have you asked other key questions such as…
- How long has the business been up and running?
- Are they financially stable?
- What relevant qualifications do their staff have?
- Can they provide information such as customer retention rate, customer satisfaction scores and SLA response times?
- Do they have capacity to meet your demand?
Don’t get left behind and settle for receiving an average service. Do your due diligence!
Get in contact with Clear Thinking today and let us help you drive your business forward.
