The average data breach costs over $4 million. This could be catastrophic to businesses in any industry — especially if the company is small.
Working with the right IT support company can help ensure that you stay protected from threats like these. With so many Los Angeles IT support options to choose from, it can seem difficult to make the right decision.
Let’s explore the key attributes you should consider when searching for IT support companies.
Understand Your IT Support Needs
To get started, it’s crucial to understand your needs. This will play a large role in finding the ideal candidate. Do you need access to remote storage?
How is your current server infrastructure? Answering these questions can help get you started on the right track. It’s worth noting that reputable professionals can help you determine this information. They can often pinpoint the services and features your business needs the most.
How Is Their Security Architecture?
This is an attribute you can never overlook. No matter how proficient an IT service provider is, it won’t mean much if they don’t prioritize security.
Even a single security incident can become a major setback. Unfortunately, there’s no shortage of cybercriminals looking to extort businesses. They often do so through the use of ransomware, which is malicious software that encrypts sensitive data.
The hacker then demands a ransom in cryptocurrency in exchange for restoring access to this information. However, there’s no guarantee the hacker won’t take the money and run. In fact, the FBI recommends against paying ransoms to these criminals.
Working a specialist in IT security in Los Angeles can help your local business prevent attacks today and in the future.
Check Their Reputation
It’s always in your best interest to work with a managed service provider who has a solid reputation. Check out with past clients have had to say about their experience. This will provide insight into what you should expect from them. It’s also worth looking at examples of their past work.
Check to see if they frequently collaborate with companies like yours. For instance, a small business owner wouldn’t want to hire someone who primarily works with corporations. Researching this information can help you get the best results from your provider.
Are They Flexible?
They should have flexible plans and policies to help you get the most out of your relationship with them.
To clarify, your plan should be easily scalable in the event that your company grows or needs to downsize. If they won’t accommodate you, it’s best to look elsewhere. The IT support company you choose should have no problem handling the changing needs of your business.
Are They Communicative?
The last thing you want is to be unable to get in touch with your IT provider. They should be highly communicative and willing to answer questions or concerns. It’s not uncommon for IT service providers to offer 24/7 support, which is an attribute you shouldn’t overlook. Transparency is also important to consider.
For instance, there may come a time when your service provider changes policies that affect their customers. They should inform people of these changes ahead of time so they can adapt appropriately.
How Is Their Customer Support?
Stellar customer support is one of the most important aspects of a reliable IT service provider. Your provider should always strive to help you resolve issues you encounter. Otherwise, your company could experience unnecessary downtime.
Working with a customer support representative should be a quick and pleasant process. If their support team doesn’t seem willing to help you fix your problems, steer clear of this business.
Consider Their Billing Structure
Financial surprises are never pleasant to deal with. In some cases, they can prove to be a substantial amount of money.
Take a close look at their billing structure before you sign an agreement. Keep an eye out for businesses that aren’t willing to elaborate on their billing policy. This is a red flag you shouldn’t ignore, as they may attempt to charge unnecessary fees.
Keep in mind that some providers are willing to negotiate. However, the buyer will need to initiate. It’s not uncommon for a provider to offer lower rates if a client signs a multiyear agreement, for example.
Look for Certifications
You should never work with a provider that does not have the proper certifications. This helps establish proficiency in certain areas, such as software development or cybersecurity. Unfortunately, you simply won’t know if the provider is qualified to meet your needs without these in place.
So, you’ll essentially be rolling the dice if you work with someone who is not properly certified. The good news is that a certified providers are more than happy to show off their certifications. You can often easily find them on their website.
Disaster Recovery Solutions
Disasters aren’t always preventable, and having the right plan in place can mean the difference between whether or not your company recovers.
The provider should have both onsite and offsite data backups to help you get back on track. For example, a natural disaster could destroy your company’s facility and ruin the computers/hard drives you own. They should offer ongoing support after a disaster until your business is back to normal. This will go a long way when it comes to minimizing lost revenue.
Hiring the Right Los Angeles IT Support Company
Working with the right professional is crucial when it comes to the longevity of your business. Consider the above information about finding Los Angeles IT services so you can make the best decision.
Get in touch with us at Be Structured to see how we can help.
Our team of reputable professionals has the experience and resources to handle all of your IT needs.
