IT Guide – 10 Essential Things to do before Changing Your IT Support Provider
There are many businesses in the marketplace that put up with bad service and high bills from IT support vendors, but who can blame them? Most companies have been using the same vendors ever since they launched the business. It seems as if the old saying “better the devil you know than the one you don’t” goes true for tech and IT support.
However, it is a time that you finally get rid of this ‘fear of change’. Moving to an IT managed service can actually be quite stress-free and easy. You just need to be aware of a few important steps before you make your shift. So, without further ado, look at these 10 essential things to do before selecting IT support services:
1. Get a List of User Names and Passwords
Ask your IT managed service to provide you a list of the passwords and user names for your Firewall, routers, servers, and employees. You would not want to make your shift without knowing this important information. Also, ask the company to let you know every time they make a change.
2. Network Diagram
Make sure that before making your shift, you get a complete network diagram of your IT environment. This includes the comprehensive graphical layout of your technology and cabling blueprint. This will make it easier for the new provider to understand what is going on in your organisation. The more info you have, the easier the transfer.
3. Internal Contacts
Assign someone in your business for liaising and reporting problems to your IT guy during the entire shifting process. This person will be responsible for providing the new company with all the information they need to make the transfer easier.
4. List Your Technology Providers
Most IT support services use services from various technology providers to offer you complete cooperative support for your IT department. Ask the company to provide you a full list of them. This includes information about your internet connection provider, support telephone number, and account number. Also, get the equipment and software programs purchase record. Get the purchase dates, serial numbers, and warranties information. Additionally, get information about your domain name. Figure out who is your current domain provider.
5. Have an Idea of How Much Support You Need
Once you have all the information required for making the shift, it is imperative to figure out how much support you need. If you want complete IT support or only want to leverage specific services, let the new provider know exactly what you require.
6. Backup and Disaster Recovery Plans
Let the new provider in on your backup and security policy. Provide them information from your backup media and make sure to let them know where your data resides outside your organisation for them to update it regularly. You could also ask your new provider to move all backup to another Data Centre if you want to get rid of all ties with your previous IT support company.
7. Open the Line of Communications
Make sure that you resolve any disputes with the previous IT managed service, such as unpaid balances. No one likes to receive bad publicity. Therefore, the goal of each side should be a smooth transition. If you encounter any problems, make sure to have a discussion before making a harsh decision.
8. Research on New Vendor
It is imperative that you perform thorough research on your new IT guy. Make sure they have a good reputation in the marketplace. Check out their credentials and check to see whether all their information is verified. Try finding out their level of technical proficiency before hiring.
9. Gain Valuable Foresight
Tell your prospective vendor to create a detailed plan on how they will be supporting your business during the transition, especially if you are moving to a cloud service. Do not hesitate on asking questions about what software/hardware you need to get up and running. Make sure to also ask if your current systems are compatible with new technologies.
10. Get Costs Information
Try getting an understanding of the IT support costs are charging for similar services in your geographic area. This can ensure you receive the best support and keep your IT support costs to a minimum.
Therefore, now that you are familiar with the tips mentioned above, changing your IT support services won’t be a problem.