Empowering change: 7-Common Misconceptions When Changing IT Service Providers

Switching IT managed service providers can be a daunting task for any business. However, several misconceptions often cloud the decision-making process. Let’s debunk some of these myths to help you more empowered and make a more informed choice.

1. It’s Too Expensive to Switch Providers 

Many believe that changing IT providers will incur prohibitive costs. While there is a real cost associated with the transition the Qbit team are flexible to keep this as low as possible, we strive to outweighed by the long-term benefits of improved service, better innovation with technology, and increased efficiency. Conducting a cost-benefit analysis can provide a clearer picture of the financial impact. 

THE GOOD

• Clean and concise setting of expectations on effort and price.
• Commercial flexibility when committing to a long-term business relationship.
• Details on how they will be successful working with your team.

THE BAD

• “Free” if it’s sounds good to, there is a good chance this will come back to your business.
• Lacking any meaningful detail to give you an insight to your business outcomes.

2. The Transition Will Disrupt Business Operations 

Fear of disruption is a common concern. However, a well-planned transition minimises downtime and ensures continuity. The Qbit team, experienced in changing IT managed service providers, creates robust transition plans, including detailed timelines, risk assessments, and contingency measures to keep your business running smoothly.

THE GOOD

• The new or bidding IT provider to answer any objections you might have.
• Be able to present a detailed plan with your people and process in mind, including a playbook on handling potential issues.
• Able to bring in subject matter experts when detailed questions are asked.

THE BAD

• 1-Way conversation without flexibility for your team members.
• Not asking what are your hours of trade or important events to be mindful of.

3. New Providers Won’t Understand Our Business

It’s natural to worry that a new provider won’t grasp the intricacies of your business. A reputable IT service provider invests time in understanding your specific needs and industry requirements. Transitioning to a new provider during changing IT provider processes often brings fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to enhance your IT infrastructure. 

THE GOOD

• Asking questions to better understand what makes your business tick.
• Able to share trends that will impact your business.

THE BAD

• We have had xxx for years, no one can possibly understand us like them.
• Not trying to understand your people, process or technologies.
• Jumping to a solution, without a deep conversation of “Why”.

4. We Will Lose Control Over Our IT Systems 

Some businesses fear losing control over their IT systems when outsourcing to a new provider. In reality, a good IT service provider works collaboratively with your in-house team and key stakeholders, offering transparency and control over critical decisions. By following a checklist for changing IT managed service providers, you can ensure your control requirements are respected and met through tailored Service Level Agreements (SLAs). 

THE GOOD

• Able to produce standard documentation for agreements, one-off projects and business-as-usual reports.
• Ability to openly explain local reasons for how they work with your team and how they handle your sensitive business intellectual property (IP).

THE BAD

• Not being mindful of your IT Manager or internal IT Champions.
• aloof or evasive responses to “As-Built” documentation, which is your business intellectual property (IP).

5. Our Data Security Will Be Compromised 

Data security is a top priority for any business. Qbit, a trusted provider, adheres to stringent protocols, helping clients navigate changing IT providers with enhanced security measures and industry certifications. They often offer enhanced security measures that can improve your overall data protection strategy. It’s essential to thoroughly vet potential providers for their security practices and certifications. 

THE GOOD

• Able to insurance documents as potential extension of your supply-chain
• Able to produce broad generalist national and international accreditations or partnerships like;
  International Standards Organization (ISO), Australian Computer Society (ACS), Australian Signals Directorate’s Australian Cyber Security Center (ASD’s ACSC)
• Able to produce specialist IT industry accreditations like;
  Microsoft, Sophos, VEEAM, CompTIA, 3CX, Android…
• Able to produce example (ideally redacted) IT Business review documents that make sense

THE BAD

• Not already having this readably available.
• Not understanding why you need to know.

6. It’s Better to Stick with the Devil We Know 

The fear of the unknown can make sticking with an underperforming provider seem like the safer option. However, this mindset can hinder growth and innovation. Evaluating new providers based on their track record, client testimonials, and service offerings can unveil better opportunities during changing IT managed service providers.

THE GOOD

• Having individual or IT steering committee to be responsible for your IT department.
• Having an defined set of business outcomes and can be verified using something like a net promoter score (NPS) or CSAT.

THE BAD

• Assuming someone’s got this.
• Not having any objective parties being able to verify technical or business fit.

7. All IT Service Providers Are the Same 

This misconception can lead to complacency in choosing a provider. IT service providers vary widely in terms of expertise, service quality, and technological capabilities. Conducting thorough research and comparing providers based on your specific needs can help you find the best fit for your business. 

THE GOOD

• Having monthly, quarterly and annual reports on the status of your IT landscape.
• Proactive real communication on what this reports mean in business terms.
• Driving innovation to new technologies and how they help the business grow, reduce costs, have an edge over the competition.

THE BAD

• Not producing clear documentation that makes sense.
• Pushing new technologies like AI without discussing risk and the guard rails need for success.

Changing IT service providers is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By debunking these common misconceptions, you can approach the transition with confidence and make choices that align with your business goals. Remember, the right IT service provider can be a valuable partner in driving your organisation’s success. 

Make The Switch To Qbit

Ready to make the switch and elevate your IT services? Let Qbit guide you through a seamless transition with expert support, tailored solutions, and a commitment to your success. Contact us today to get started and discover how we can help your business thrive.