Information technology is the use of computers, networking, storage, and other physical devices and infrastructure to retrieve, store, transmit and manipulate data. Technology continues to advance at a rapid speed and businesses often have difficulty keeping pace. Technical support services allow businesses to get the help they need to keep their technological equipment running smoothly. Some businesses employ their own IT staff while others outsource important IT tasks to a managed IT service provider. Hiring a specialist company gives businesses immediate access to experienced and qualified IT experts who can meet all of a business’s IT needs.
Who Needs IT Support?
According to a 2019 report for the Connected Commerce Council, 85 percent of small business owners report that the use of technology improves business performance, helps them remain competitive and aids in overall success.
Today, nearly every business relies on technology at some level, especially businesses without in-house IT expertise. Businesses should also consider IT support services if they are worried about cybersecurity. Approximately 60 percent of all small businesses that experience a cyberattack close within six months, according to the U.S. National Cyber Security Alliance.
How Does It Work?
The role of a technical support specialist is to provide businesses with assistance and maintenance with all computer hardware and systems. This may include installing, updating, and configuring software and hardware, as well as making repairs when problems occur with equipment.
Businesses also rely on IT support to set up profiles, emails and access passes for new employees. A technical support specialist may also run regular security checks on systems and assist in the roll out of new operating systems or applications. IT teams can also deliver valuable knowledge to businesses about general computer systems, device networking, cloud platforms, software applications, electronic hardware, and many other technology-related subjects.
Benefits Of Acquiring IT Support Services
Businesses can enjoy a wide range of benefits when they acquire IT support services. Most modern businesses rely heavily on IT systems, but due to the complexity of modern technology, issues with IT systems are fairly common. From data loss and cyberattacks to service interruption and data processing errors, these types of issues can cause businesses to lose time and money. Having a dedicated IT support service with access to highly specialized professionals and resources can help ensure that any problems that arise are quickly dealt with without extended business interruption. Some of the top benefits of acquiring IT support services include:
Lower Operational Costs
Some businesses see IT support services as just another expense. However, IT support can actually lower a business’s operational costs. The national average salary for an IT specialist is $51,838, according to Glassdoor. If a business chooses to hire an in-house IT specialist, they would be responsible for the salary, as well as benefits and the costs of training, education, and management overhead costs. Outsourcing IT eliminates these costs.
Access To Expert IT Specialists
Reputable IT support services have extensive technical knowledge that can be highly valuable to grow businesses. Acquiring IT support services means that a business gains access to this unique knowledge base, along with multiple techs with different skill sets.
Minimize Risks
Implementing new technology always comes with risks. If a problem occurs, a business could lose a substantial amount of time and money. These types of risks are considerably reduced when an IT support team steps in to take over important IT tasks. IT support professionals have the skills needed to manage most types of risks, including compliance and security risks.
Improve Internal Efficiency
Without a dedicated IT team, employees must spend time each day managing IT issues that they might not have experience dealing with, which can lead to wasted time. Professional IT support ensures that all systems run smoothly while allowing employees to focus on their personal job roles.
Remain Compliant
Businesses are responsible for remaining in good standing in accordance with federal, state and local laws. When a business fails to remain compliant, it could face serious fees and penalties. An IT support team can help a business remain in compliance and meet important standards pertaining to data privacy and security management.
Enhance Incident Response Times
When an IT problem occurs, it is important to act quickly to prevent extensive operational delays or lost income. IT support services can provide businesses with enhanced incident response times. Most IT support companies provide a convenient Help Desk that can be reached around-the-clock for fast and immediate IT help.
Reach Out To A Managed IT Services Provider
Operating a business in the digital age often requires the assistance of a professional IT team. Businesses in all industries can benefit from data protection and cybersecurity that IT support services can deliver. For more information about IT support, reach out to a managed IT services provider at SeaGlass Technology.