At some point, most small and midsize business owners consider outsourcing IT but it’s a decision that can easily fall to the bottom of your to-do list – after all, you have a business to run. There are, however, some very compelling reasons to make it a priority. If your company exhibits one or more of the telltale signs in this top-3 list, it’s time to take action.
Sign #1 that it’s time to outsource IT – No data security plan
A disaster can take many different forms – anything from human error to a flood can put the brakes on your operations. Hardware can be re-purchased and operations can be moved to another facility, in the event of a disaster, but data is one of the few assets that can’t be replaced. Loss or long-term unavailability of your business data can be devastating.
If your data isn’t protected, regularly backed-up, and safely stored, your company is highly vulnerable.
Sign #2 that it’s time to outsource IT – Lack of coordination across departments
Most companies start with basic software programs and spreadsheets and then, as the company grows, it layers on additional pieces. But they aren’t integrated so more people are hired to create more spreadsheets, enter more data, and reconcile the differences. Even if it’s done with 100% accuracy (and it seldom is!), manually entering the same information into multiple programs can make it difficult to add new people, products, and locations. As your business grows, expect delays if key business processes, such as sales order processing and inventory management, don’t share real-time information.
This is more than just a time killer – it can be a serious growth barrier.
Sign #3 that it’s time to outsource IT – Technology is an afterthought
Technology has emerged as the primary driver of cost control, productivity, and profitability. It's an ever-evolving area of your business that, in the right hands, can provide a strong competitive advantage. To thrive, your business should adapt the way it engages customers, manages business functions, and collaborates with suppliers and partners. This means aligning your business objectives with enabling technology, like mobile solutions and cloud computing.
With a little foresight, technology is a business accelerator.
Fortunately, if you need to explore IT outsourcing, the next step is an easy one. Get an IT assessment. It’s a professional and unbiased view of your information systems with prioritized recommendations. “Without fail, assessments turn up ways to streamline processes, lower costs, reduce risk, and eliminate growth barriers,” says Ron Mondor, President, Zantek Information Technology.
Relevant links:
> The essential traits of an excellent IT service provider - your top 5 checklist
> 5 tips for selecting a data back-up solution
> What does an IT assessment cover?
Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net