The cost of IT support can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the company providing the services, the level of IT support, and the level of in-house IT support you may need. This article discusses some of the important factors to consider when you are shopping for an IT support service provider.
Levels of IT support
In the IT world, there are several different levels of support. Each level addresses specific challenges and requirements. Choosing the right one is crucial to your business.
Level 0 Support is an entry-level tier that provides a mix of self-service and traditional customer support. These types of services are aimed at improving end-user experience and reducing expenses. They include extensive product information and FAQs. It also uses a mix of search tools and manuals to free up higher-level technical workers.
Level 1 Support is an intermediate tier, providing basic customer service and administrative support. It is usually given through phone and email.
Level 2 Support is a more advanced tier that deals with more complex issues. It may involve diagnosing problems, or developing software solutions. This is typically given by technicians with a deeper knowledge of your company’s products and hardware.
Tier 3 is the highest level of IT support. Technicians are able to manipulate program code and understand the core workings of your company’s software. Their expertise can be used to resolve business-critical system problems.
Cost of IT support
If you’re wondering how much IT support is really worth, you’ll want to consider a few factors. Ultimately, what you pay for depends on your particular business needs and the type of service you need.
Generally speaking, a reputable IT support company will assign you a technician that has the skills and expertise you need. They’ll also ensure your techs are up to date on all the latest technologies.
One of the easiest ways to figure out the cost of IT support is to determine the number of users you have in your organization. This number varies by business, but in general, you’ll spend anywhere from $125 to $250 per user, or about $300 a month, on average.
While IT companies typically charge a minimum amount of hours, you can often get a better deal by committing to a monthly or annual fee. However, this can depend on the nature of your business, such as if you have a lot of remote users or are a seasonal company.
Problems with IT support companies
It’s no secret that many of us have a love-hate relationship with our IT department, so being able to tap into a competent and smarmy one armed jack of all trades can come in handy from time to time. That said, a bit of research and a few dollars can go a long way and if you do it right you might even have yourself a new best friend in the process. The most important aspect of any IT relationship is ensuring that each member knows what the other is and what they need to do to keep the company moving in the right direction. Fortunately, there are more than a few companies that can help with the aforementioned problem. This is a great opportunity for both parties to glean from each other’s successes, failures, and innovations.
In-house vs. outsourced IT support
Outsourcing IT support can provide businesses with the flexibility they need to meet their needs. It is an economical solution and offers the benefit of not having to worry about training or certification costs. This type of service provides on-demand monitoring and can help reduce unexpected expenses. Choosing the right IT company is important. A good outsourced support can identify issues with aging equipment and can assess your company’s IT infrastructure.
Small businesses may be reluctant to outsource IT support. The cost of hiring a full-time staff member can be prohibitive. They may also not have the capacity to outsource additional skills. However, many outsourced IT companies offer affordable package services.
An IT support team can be trained in the ways of your business and can be a valuable asset. Their expertise and familiarity with your business’s technology can help solve problems. However, they are often subject to turnover and may not always align with other teams.