Information Technology Services Audit Checklist

Choosing to work with an IT tech support provider is an excellent option for many organizations. However, many organizations are unfamiliar with the various duties of a Managed Services Provider (MSP). Using a detailed checklist is a great way to see if an MSP aligns with your business goals or if you need to look elsewhere.

Here are a few of the top things to consider in creating a checklist for selecting an information technology services provider.

Technical Expertise

Trying to manage technical challenges is often an overwhelming experience for most businesses. On the other hand, an MSP gives you access to tech professionals that do this type of work on a daily basis. An IT team will conduct a regular technical assessment of your business to look at ways to fix any problems and maximize productivity. A systematic approach to IT will ensure your business reaches its full potential with the help of technology.

Are the Costs Predictable?

Staying within a budget is a challenging task if you are constantly trying to manage the fluctuating costs of an in-house IT department. Some IT service providers will charge by the hour based on the work they need to do during a billing period. This will vary based on support requirements from month to month. In fact, it’s this billing model that generally separates an IT service provider from a “true MSP.” MSPs will charge a fixed monthly fee usually based on the number of employees within an organization. The advantage of the latter fee model is that the predictable costs make it much easier to manage your budget without worrying about any hidden fees.

Cybersecurity Services

A cybersecurity incident involving your business can devastate your reputation and cause you to lose the trust of your customers. Cyber attacks are always changing, whether it’s social engineering schemes, malware, or hackers using software to access employee accounts. An MSP that focuses on providing the best cybersecurity protection is essential in keeping your business safe against these threats. These services include end-to-end protection, patch management, disaster recovery, incident response plans, and much more.

Remote Monitoring and Maintenance

Monitoring your network for any signs of unusual activity is a top priority for a managed service provider. These proactive monitoring services can often prevent a cybersecurity incident from causing widespread damage. An MSP will also handle maintenance for your company, such as downloading the latest security updates and using diagnostic tools to find any potential weakness within your IT infrastructure.

IT Help Desk Support

Dealing with technical issues is always a frustrating experience for employees. These technical problems can often cripple business operations and make it impossible to stay productive. An MSP that offers skilled help desk support is a great way to limit downtime, as employees can reach out to them for immediate assistance.

GSDSolutions offers IT tech support for small and medium sized businesses and organizations. Our goal is to keep your employees working at an optimal level while also keeping your data safe against cyber threats. We will also give your business access to the latest technology available, and our team members are only a phone call away if you need any assistance.

If you’re looking for IT support in the Bay Area, contact GSDSolutions today to learn more!