January 13, 2025
When it comes to IT support, many business owners believe that "good enough" is sufficient. However, what if your IT provider is actually jeopardizing your business with slow response times, poor communication, or a lack of proactive solutions?
The reality is that you may not realize how inadequate your IT support is until you experience exceptional service. If you recognize any of the following signs, it may be time to consider finding a new IT provider.
1. You Can't Reach Them During Emergencies
In the event of a network failure or cybersecurity incident, waiting on hold or leaving a voicemail is not acceptable. A dependable IT provider should answer calls promptly or return them within 30 minutes, especially during emergencies. If your provider is unavailable when you need them the most, that's a significant warning sign.
2. They Don't Monitor Your Network Proactively
Your IT provider should be the one notifying you of issues rather than the other way around. Proactive monitoring involves tracking your systems for downtime, breaches, and inefficiencies, then presenting solutions before problems occur. If you frequently discover issues they have overlooked, they are not fulfilling their responsibilities.
3. Cybersecurity Isn't Their Priority
Cybersecurity is not just a trend; it is essential in today's IT landscape. If your provider has not established and implemented a comprehensive cybersecurity plan that includes ransomware protection and data backup, they are endangering your business. Top-tier IT providers consistently suggest new strategies to safeguard you against the latest cyber threats. If yours does not, it may be time to reconsider your partnership.
4. Their Support Is Inconsistent And Hard To Use
Are they responsive even for non-emergency issues? Do they have a clear and user-friendly ticketing system to log and prioritize your requests? If your team is experiencing long wait times, unresolved issues, or cumbersome processes, you are dealing with a provider that is not prioritizing your needs.
5. They Don't Provide Clear Invoices
You should always be aware of what you are paying for. If you receive vague invoices or are charged for every minor service, that is a concern. Transparency regarding costs is a key characteristic of a great IT provider, and you deserve clarity about where your funds are being allocated.
6. They're Not Testing Backups Regularly
Data backup is crucial, but if those backups are not being tested, you could face a rude awakening when a disaster occurs. If your IT provider is not conducting regular test restores to verify that your data can be recovered, it's time to seek a provider who takes your backups as seriously as you do.
7. Projects Are Always Late And Over Budget
Does every IT project feel like an unexpected surprise, complete with delays, hidden costs, and a lack of communication? Exceptional IT providers complete projects on time and within budget, or at the very least, keep you informed if there are any deviations. If you're fed up with continually chasing them for updates, it may be time to look for alternatives.
Stop Settling For Subpar IT Support
Inadequate IT support is more than just a nuisance; it is a risk. If any of these signs resonate with you, it is time to explore what truly exceptional IT service looks like.
Start with a FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call.
We'll evaluate your current setup, identify vulnerabilities and leave you with
actionable steps to improve your technology.
Click here to book
your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call now or call our office at (541) 726-7775.
Let us take the stress out of your IT so you can focus on
growing your business.
