Choosing the best IT support company in St. Louis

As your business expands, so do your IT support needs. You may find that your small IT team, which could field last month’s projects and helpdesk requests, can no longer keep up with the demands of your growing company.

You know how some days you run around like crazy, only to question what you accomplished by the time you lock up? Well, the same can be true of an overloaded internal IT team. Not only do they become less efficient as they constantly put out fires around the office, but they may also inadvertently leave you vulnerable to cyberthreats. When your IT staff is bogged down by day-to-day technical issues, they’re unable to effectively manage and monitor your network.

Or maybe you have already outgrown the DIY approach and have outsourced your IT support, but you are disappointed with the service you’re receiving. Your calls go unanswered, or despite your repeated requests, you continue to face recurring IT problems.

Whether your business is growing or you are just plain growing frustrated with your IT support, it’s time to find a reliable IT support company in Greater St. Louis. Here are some essential qualities to look for when searching for and interviewing IT support companies:

Fast Response Times

While many IT support companies can offer highly technical services, they are of little value if you can’t reach them when you need assistance. Fast response time is arguably the most crucial quality in IT support because downtime directly impacts your business. Even a few hours of downtime can lead to lost productivity, opportunity costs, repair expenses, and damage to your reputation. Ensure that the IT support company you choose can provide quick and effective responses to minimize these risks.

Real Responses, Not Automated Replies

When evaluating IT support companies, it’s important to clarify the nature of their responses. Some companies claim to offer immediate responses, but these often turn out to be automated emails. You don’t need an IT expert to tell you—an automated response is not helpful in urgent situations. You need an IT support company that answers your calls promptly with real human interaction, not just chatbots or email autoresponses.

A Broad Suite of Services

Your IT support company should offer a comprehensive range of services. A broad service package not only supports and protects your business more effectively but also indicates that the provider has staff with diverse knowledge and expertise in IT. You don’t want to rely on a company that excels in only a few areas, as this will force you to seek additional help for problems outside their scope, increasing costs and complexity.

Industry-Specific Experience

Technology needs vary across industries, so having an IT support provider with experience in your specific industry can be invaluable. They will understand the unique needs, devices, and applications relevant to your operations. For example, manufacturers might require support for software like SolidWorks, Autodesk, or TruTops Boost. An IT support company familiar with these tools can streamline your service and support needs.

Emphasis on Proactive Data Security

No matter the size of your business, a cyberattack can be devastating. Statistics show that 60% of small businesses that suffer a significant data loss go out of business within just six months of the attack. Therefore, it’s critical to choose an IT support provider that prioritizes proactive data security measures. During your conversations with potential providers, listen for how they plan to prevent issues before they occur, not just how they will react after a problem arises. A good IT support company should regularly advise you on security best practices to protect your business from potential threats.

By keeping these key qualities in mind, you can find an IT support company that will not only meet your current needs but also support your business as it continues to grow.