Your IT (information technology) team and service desk serve as the backbone of your company’s operations. They keep things running smoothly and efficiently, but they can also be a drain on your resources. Recently many businesses have been making the switch from in-house IT departments to outsourced solutions.
If you’re considering making the switch, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Here’s how to make the transition from an in-house IT department to outsourced solutions:
- Define your needs. Before you can start looking for an outsourcing partner, you need to know what your company needs. Take some time to sit down and evaluate your current IT set-up. What works well and what could be improved? What do you need in order to support your business goals? Once you have a clear idea of your needs, you can start searching for a provider that can meet them.
- Do your research. Not all outsourcing providers are created equal. When you’re looking for a partner, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable provider with a proven track record. Ask for references and case studies from other companies in your industry. Make sure you understand the provider’s pricing model and what kind of support they offer.
- Set up a trial period. Once you’ve found a provider you’re interested in working with, set up a trial period to test out their services. This will give you a chance to see how they perform and whether or not they’re a good fit for your company.
- Train your staff. Once you’ve decided to outsource your information technology, you’ll need to train your staff on how to use the new system. This may take some time and effort, but it’s important to make sure everyone is on board with the change.
- Track your progress. After you’ve made the switch to outsourced IT, it’s important to track your progress and ensure that everything is running smoothly. Regularly check in with your provider and give them feedback on their performance. Make sure your staff is happy with the new system and that they’re able to use it effectively.
- Be prepared for bumps in the road. Any time you make a major change to your business, there are bound to be some bumps in the road. Be prepared for this and have a plan in place for how you’ll handle any issues that come up.
- Have patience. Making the switch to outsourced information technology can be a big change for your company, and it may take some time to adjust. Be patient and give yourself and your staff time to get used to the new system.
Making the switch from an in-house IT department to outsourced solutions can be a big undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. If you take the time to prepare and do your research, you can find a partner that will help your business run more efficiently and save you money in the long run.