Getting the Most from Your IT Company

Three out of four U.S.-based businesses hire IT companies or utilize IT services. This high percentage reflects the growing importance of digital transformation and technology across various industries. However, frustration remains high, with 40% of customers discontinuing business with their IT service providers due to poor service. Finding the right IT company for your business can be tricky. At Royal Engineering we have had success with these steps to elevate employees’ IT satisfaction:

1. Set Clear Goals and Expectations:

   View your IT service provider as another one of your employees. Their success heavily depends on the clear goals and expectations you set. If quick response and resolution times for your IT issues are a priority, make it known. If reducing overall computer downtime is your focus, then set it as a goal. Just ensure any goals you set are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound).

2. Collaborate, Coordinate, Communicate: 

   George Bernard Shaw said, “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” Ensure that you and your IT contact have regular, scheduled meetings or calls. This provides opportunities for planning, reporting, and accountability, as well as creating a designated time to share ideas and concerns. Use this time to review goals. If practical for them, encourage weekly visits to the office to see if employees have any IT issues. Odds are, there are a number of small IT issues that haunt your employees, but they are small enough to ignore rather than submitting an IT ticket.

3. Invest in the Right Tools and Infrastructure: 

   Empower your IT company by investing in your IT systems.  Not only will this enhance work productivity, scalability, cost efficiency, and operational continuity, but your IT team will feel motivated to be proactive.  You will know you have hired the right IT company when they let you know about issues before they ever become a problem.

4. Foster a Culture of Continuous Improvement: 

   Encourage a culture where continuous learning and improvement are valued. Good IT is more than just having fast computers for your employees; it involves creating and refining processes. Continuously assess the processes you have in place. Identify what is missing or where improvements can be made. Your IT company should not be bringing you problems, but solutions.

By following these steps, you can significantly improve your IT satisfaction and overall business efficiency. Remember, the right IT company will not only address your current needs but also anticipate future challenges and opportunities. Investing in a strong partnership with your IT service provider can lead to a more productive, secure, and innovative business environment. Take the time to set clear goals, maintain open communication, invest in the right tools, and foster continuous improvement to ensure your IT infrastructure supports your business growth effectively now and well into the bright future.