Changing IT Service Providers- how to begin

For the past few years, we have been very fortunate to bring on new clients that appreciate the value of the service we provide as their IT Partner.  When our clients approach us, in most cases we are replacing other IT companies.  In other cases, we are replacing or augmenting IT staff.  While it is common for us to go through IT Partner transitions, we have found some companies forgo changing IT partners as they fear that it is such a painful process.  They would rather stay with the status quo assuming no better options are available.  This is a dangerous business decision if your company is technology driven.

Although change can be hard for many, it does not have to be a painful process.  Having the right IT Partner come aboard can minimize the pain.  The following are some questions you should ask yourself when making or thinking of making a transition to a different IT Partner:

1. When does my current agreement end?
2. Will my current IT Partner cooperate during the transition?
3. How much time does my new IT Partner require to make a complete transition?
4. What is the transition plan from my new IT Partner?
5. Will my new IT partner provide a Business Assessment of my technology? (More than just a network assessment)
6. Will my new IT Partner fit our company culture?

A good IT Partner understands most technologies, so a transition from their perspective is not a big deal.  As long as communication from both parties is constant, and a plan is put in place, changing from one provider to the next should be more seamless than expected.  Let’s face it, IT is IT, but how a company leverages their technology and having the right IT partner in place is what truly makes a difference.

Ed Garay, Catalyst Computer Technologies