When you Google “managed IT services, a plethora of benefits will bombard your screen. Until finally, deciding on one that looks like it might be a good fit. Even then, you still ask: Is this the same as my current IT services or am I missing out on more benefits from managed IT services?  

Changing or replacing the supplier in charge of your IT infrastructure and security may be more complicated, especially when there’s much at stake and if you already have a current provider. Making positive changes can significantly impact your bottom line during difficult times.  

10 Signs It’s Time to Switch to a New Managed It Services Provider  

1. You question their reputation. 

Understanding the status of an MSP can be beneficial. Mistakes happen all the time, but your MSP should have a good reputation for giving consistent and reliable service. If you notice any red flags, while assessing partner services of your current IT provider, it is urgent to discuss steps for improvement or look elsewhere to avoid potential security and financial damage. 

Look out for these examples of poor reputations: 

• Low ratings online
• Criticisms from other customers
• Poor communication abilities
• Questionable billing methods
• History of name changes 

Looking into certifications, awards, or past clients shouldn’t be something that’s hidden. Ask them what these are and make your research.  

2. You question if you made the right decision. 

You would think that buyer’s remorse is only possible with managed IT services. People can be unhappy if they feel like they’re paying too much, aren’t getting enough for their money, or realize that your competitors’ managed services are better.  

3. You are disappointed with their customer service. 

Customer service and communication from a company can reveal a lot about them. Each partner in a mutual relationship prioritizes the issues of the other. A top-notch MSP knows how essential the services they offer your company are, and they will send out a quick-response customer support team to handle your problems.  

Your MSP may not be the best MSP for you if you consistently experience long wait times, repeated information input, several transfers, or general rudeness when you call for assistance or service.  

4. You are not sure if it’s keeping your business secure and if they’re ahead of the curve. 

The world of technology and cybersecurity is continuously changing and evolving. Hardware and software must be kept as cutting-edge when possible to maintain security and smooth corporate operations. 

More than ever before, seamless connectivity and strong cybersecurity are essential. Many people work from home, either part-time or full-time. For businesses to make money, they need essential IT infrastructure, security, and cloud services.  

If your managed services provider isn’t willing to adopt, integrate, or upgrade important pieces of technology you need, it may be best to take your business elsewhere.  

5. Your Managed Service Provider has a reactive approach. 

Do you only get communication from your MSP during emergencies or when making a payment? If you’re in the same situation, it might be time to adopt a more proactive rather than reactive mindset.  

IT is the last thing a business owner thinks about when all their company’s IT requirements are being met, and things are going well. IT typically becomes incredibly vital when technology fails. Even though putting out tech fires is part of every MSP’s job description, a good MSP will actively communicate potential dangers, current countermeasures, and other proactive ways to avoid fires in the first place.  

6. You think that they are not keeping their promises.  

You and the company providing your IT help are both responsible. A one-way relationship is not a relationship, so remember that. It’s an abuse of power. If one individual does not keep their half of the bargain, this relationship could terminate rapidly. When something goes wrong, you must show that you followed your provider’s instructions and that they performed to a certain standard. Hence, providers must explain what went wrong, how it is being fixed, and how they will prevent it.  

If every time something goes wrong, they choose to blame you (and you have taken their advice), say it’s not their responsibility, or fail to answer questions while insisting the issue is with someone else, it’s time to move on.  

7. Your Managed Services planning and strategies are poor. 

The best IT service providers will learn about your business and create custom programs based on how it is set up. High-level strategic knowledge and the capacity to plan and keep up with developments in your industry and business are required. Find out how your provider intends to achieve this by speaking with them.  

8. You believe that they are not honest and transparent.  

The need for more transparency can stem from various problems, including your finances. Before you sign the contract, you must understand everything it says, including the terms, the scope of the work, the total monthly fees, and any restrictions. Moreover, if technical jargon is included, they wouldn’t hesitate to answer and explain what these are.  

9. Your Managed IT Services Provider takes a questionable amount of time to respond. 

Threats change, new obstacles appear, and your company cannot afford to be caught off guard when these happen. Your IT provider must be up-to-date and offer the features and services you need to deal with these changes. Additionally, they must be able to react quickly to these difficulties.  

Your IT supplier needs to cooperate with your company as it expands and be prepared and able to tackle the additional issues brought on by a scaling organization in addition to dealing with developing risks. This situation is unacceptable if your provider is unable to accomplish it.  

10. Your relationships and reputation are hanging on a thin line.  

Technology services that are poorly implemented have significant ripple effects. It will hurt your relationships with clients, partners, potential employees, and other people over time, and it will also hurt your reputation in your market and industry. Reputation risks cannot and should not be tolerated. 

Change is Hard, but your Managed IT Service Provider Shouldn’t Make You Think of Change  

Disasters, cyberthreats, and server crashes are not foreign incidents in the workplace. However, if these are your “regulars,” change is needed pronto. If you’re thinking more about the hassle, consider the IT needs that shouldn’t be ignored. 

At ECF Data, we’re proud to offer small businesses IT services that are on par with those offered to large businesses at prices that are competitive. Our team of professionals may serve as your in-house IT support staff, responding to problems as they arise, frequently even before you are aware of them. We can help you with everything you need to do with technology, from your servers and network infrastructure to your desktops, workstations, and mobile devices.  

We have created workflow processes and best practices that keep your attention on your business rather than your technology, thanks to time and expertise. Contact our team right now if you want to learn more about what a well-managed IT service looks like and how it can help your company.