Finding the right IT partner is just as important (and sometimes just as challenging) as trying to find the right doctor. With so many options to choose from, how do you know which partner is going to be the best fit for your business?
While we can’t help you find a doctor, we can provide some tips for finding the right IT partner.
Two key things to look at when evaluating an IT provider are their services and their process. You need a partner who provides the right services to fit your business needs. But you also need a partner who has a proven process for finding,
The right services
The right services for you business are going to depend on your goals and objectives. Are you looking to grow your business? Do you have a mobile workforce and need to improve productivity and collaboration? Or, do you work in an industry that has strict compliance regulations?
Here are some basic services your IT partner should provide.
Even if you don’t think you need all of the services above, having a partner that is able to provide them will give you peace of mind knowing those services are available should your business ever need them in the future.
The right process
As important as it is to find a provider who offers the right services for your business, it’s equally important that they have the right processes in place to identify, create, and implement the best solutions.
Related: Five qualities successful companies have that help improve customer experiences
Ultimately, you should be looking for a partner who is focused on growing your business, not their bottom line. Here are some ways you can identify a partner like that.
Do they listen to your story?
You need a partner who starts the engagement process by learning about your business. Not just your current status, but who you are at your core and how you got to where you are today. Understanding your past, present, and plans for the future are crucial steps to finding the right technology solutions for your business.
Do they learn about your challenges?
A good partner is going to make sure they understand the various challenges your business faces before they start suggesting and implementing solutions. Addressing your challenges is just as important as knowing the goals you’re trying to reach.
Can they create a custom plan?
The best partners are not going to take a cookie-cutter approach to their IT solutions. That’s why listening to your story and understanding your challenges should be the first part of your engagement process. Look for a partner who doesn’t push one solution over another simply because it’s easier, newer, or more expensive.
Finding the right partner
The best way to find the right partner is to do some research, make some calls, and ask potential partners your questions. You can also check their website for a testimonials page. If their clients are saying good things about them, they’ll want to share that.
Just like finding the right doctor, it may take a little time and research to find the right IT partner. But when done correctly, your hard work will pay off.
More than a vendor
At MCA Technology, we are dedicated to providing all of the solutions and processes described above. We are more than just an IT vendor. We strive to be an IT partner.
We work hard to provide the best support and solutions to our clients. Every. Single. Time.
