With so many digital innovations emerging, it can be difficult for organisations to strike a balance between staying current and focusing on with their mission-driven work. For charities, maintaining a strong IT infrastructure is critical to ensure smooth operations and keep sensitive data secure. This makes partnering with a reliable IT support company an essential step in their growth and security.
Charities need outsourced IT support services that offer a range of solutions, from 24/7 support to having a dedicated account manager.
This blog will help you identify common red flags in IT companies and show you how to find a fully managed support company that aligns with your charity’s needs. We’ll explore what to look for in a support service provider, bad practices to watch out for, and how to choose a company that offers a robust range of services.
What is an IT Support Company?
An IT support company provides organisations with the technical expertise and resources needed to manage their technology infrastructure effectively. These companies offer a range of services tailored to ensure that charities can focus on their mission without being hindered by technological issues. IT support services typically include cyber security solutions to protect sensitive data, cloud solutions that offer scalable and secure storage, as well as day-to-day support for hardware and software issues.
Many IT support companies also provide fully managed services, taking care of everything from system monitoring to disaster recovery and ensuring that any technical issues are addressed swiftly. By partnering with a reliable IT company, charities can access solutions and enable them to work efficiently and securely.
The Advantages of Partnering with an Outsourced IT Support Company
There are many advantages to partnering with an outsourced IT Support company, including peace of mind that your technology will operate efficiently and ongoing guidance. Let’s explore the main advantages of partnering with an IT Support company.
Increased Data Security and Protection
Cyber security threats develop on a daily basis, with a reported 38% increase in cyber attacks against charities in recent years. For organisations handling sensitive data, including donor and stakeholder information, securing data is crucial to maintaining trust for your reputation. Partnering with an outsourced IT support company can provide advanced protection against cyber risks, ensuring that data protection measures are always in place. IT Support companies often include robust security systems that shield against ransomware and phishing attacks. IT Expertise and Guidance
One of the biggest advantages of outsourcing IT support is having access to an expert support team. IT professionals provide invaluable guidance from selecting the right hardware and software to optimising network infrastructure. With a dedicated account manager, your charity can rely on a partner that offers 24/7 support and a fully managed approach to troubleshooting, maintenance, and technology upgrades.
IT Expertise and Guidance
One of the biggest advantages of outsourcing IT support is having access to an expert team. IT professionals provide invaluable guidance from selecting the right hardware and software to optimising network infrastructure. With a dedicated account manager, your charity can rely on a partner that offers 24/7 support and a fully managed approach to troubleshooting, maintenance, and technology upgrades.
Scalability and Flexibility
As charities grow, so do IT needs. Another benefit of partnering with an IT company is the flexibility to scale up as required. IT support companies will make sure to provide scalable solutions, such as cloud-based services and flexible data storage options, which enable organisations to adapt their infrastructure in line with changing demands.
Get Free or Discounted Access to IT Resources
Many charities are eligible for discounted or even free access to IT resources. Microsoft grants provide charities with reduced-cost licences for Microsoft 365 apps and other tools. This allows organisations to access leading technology without the financial burden. Additionally, IT support companies inform charities of how to obtain Microsoft nonprofit status, ensuring they maximise these benefits and access essential resources tailored to their operational needs.
Reduced Costs Over Time
By maintaining regular IT support, charities can avoid costly breakdowns and extended downtime. An outsourced IT support company can evaluate your charity’s current infrastructure and provide tailored advice on how to enhance efficiency. They may recommend moving to the cloud, which can reduce physical hardware costs and enhance flexibility. Over time, regular maintenance and proactive management from a fully managed IT service provider can significantly lower operational costs. Discover how moving to the cloud could save your charity money. Help Your Charity with Digital Transformation
Help Your Charity with Digital Transformation
An IT provider can not only help implement your charity digital transformation strategy, but also recommend and implement the required systems and processes. Whether it’s moving data to the cloud or upgrading your digital presence, a support company with a comprehensive range of services can help you embrace digitalisation. Proactive Maintenance and Monitoring
Proactive Maintenance and Monitoring
A fully outsourced IT service usually includes 24/7 monitoring and proactive maintenance, preventing issues before they impact your charity’s operations. This proactive approach leads to fewer disruptions and more efficient use of technology, enhancing overall productivity.
Improved Compliance
Charities must adhere to several regulatory requirements, including data protection laws like GDPR. IT providers with experience in the nonprofit sector can help your organisation stay compliant by ensuring your systems and processes are up to legal standards, reducing the risk of fines or reputational damage.
How to Choose an IT Support Company
When choosing an IT support provider for your charity, it’s essential to take several factors into consideration. Ensuring that your IT partner is not only technically proficient but also aligned with your charity’s goals and unique challenges is crucial for long-term success.
Let’s explore the most important aspects to consider when selecting the right IT support company for your charity.
- Proven Track Record in the Charity Sector
- Check Their Onboarding Process
- Contract Flexibility
- Industry Certifications and Accreditations
- Technology Partnerships
- References and Recommendations
Proven Track Record in the Charity Sector
Selecting an IT support company with experience in the charity sector is vital. The right IT partner will understand the charity’s common hurdles such as budget limitations and managing sensitive donor data, and offer tailored solutions. For instance, a provider can make sure your charity stays compliant with its expert knowledge of GDPR and other regulations that impact charities. Be aware of their expertise in this field by checking their years of experience, partnerships, case studies and clients within the nonprofit sector.
Check Their Onboarding Process
A smooth and thorough onboarding process is essential when starting a relationship with an IT company. Make sure they conduct a comprehensive audit and survey of your site and IT infrastructure to identify your needs from the beginning of the relationship. The onboarding process should be transparent and structured, ensuring there are no surprises or limited downtime. Learn more about a robust onboarding process to ensure you’re making the right choice based on our experience.
Contract Flexibility
Charities often require flexibility in their contracts, especially when it comes to budget and operational demands. When reviewing potential IT partners, consider what level of support is offered under the contract. Choose a support company that offers flexible terms that can adapt to your charity’s changing needs, ensuring you’re never paying for unnecessary services or left without coverage when it’s needed most.
Industry Certifications and Accreditations
Ensure that the IT support provider holds relevant certifications such as ISO 27001 for information security management and Cyber Essentials, both of these accreditations demonstrate their commitment to protecting your charity’s data. These certifications indicate that the provider follows industry best practices and can handle your IT needs to the highest standards.
Technology Partnerships
Look for IT providers that have strong partnerships with leading technology companies, such as Microsoft or Google. These partnerships often mean the provider has access to the latest technology and can offer competitive pricing for software and hardware solutions. They also demonstrate the provider’s expertise in working with advanced tools and solutions that can benefit your charity.
References and Recommendations
Reach out to other charities that the IT support company has worked with and ask for direct references. This will give you real insights into the provider’s reliability, service quality, and whether they can handle specific charity-related challenges like data protection, budget constraints, and scalability.
Red Flags Charities Should Watch For When Choosing an IT Support Provider
Choosing the right IT support provider is fundamental, but many organisations fall victim to bad practices that can lead to wasted resources or even security risks. Here are some red flags to watch out for when selecting an IT provider.
Be Cautious of IT Providers Who Agree to Every Request Without Hesitation or Proper Assessment
It may feel reassuring when an IT provider says “yes” to requests, but this can be a sign that they’re not understanding your needs. IT providers should take the time to properly assess your charity’s current IT legacy technology and, objectives before committing to a solution. A provider who jumps into action without understanding your charity’s needs may not have your long-term interests in mind.
Avoid IT Support Providers Who Are Too Quick to Say “That’s Impossible”
Be wary of providers who quickly shut down your requests and do not come up with alternative solutions. A quality IT provider should offer explanations and take the time to investigate whether a solution is feasible. If they don’t explore your options and aren’t willing to collaborate with you, it could mean they lack the expertise and can’t help the charity’s specific needs. It’s important to work with a provider that strives to meet your objectives.
IT Support Is Outsourced to Another Provider
If the IT support you’re considering is outsourcing services to another provider, this can create complications in communication and accountability. Ideally, you want to work with a support company that has an internal IT team and handles everything in-house, where they have full control over the services provided. Outsourcing can lead to slower response times, confusion about who is responsible for what, and potentially lower service quality.
Does the Provider Operate Under a Managed Service Model?
It’s important to ensure that your IT provider operates under a managed service model. Managed IT services offer a proactive approach to IT support, monitoring your systems regularly and preventing issues before they arise, rather than simply reacting to problems after they occur. This kind of service ensures your charity benefits from a dedicated account manager, regular reporting, and long-term IT strategy planning.
Lack of Scalability
A good IT provider should be able to scale their services as your organisation grows. If a provider doesn’t have a flexible approach to adding or removing services, or if they don’t have experience working with growing organisations, this can be a red flag. You need a provider who can adjust to changes in your charity’s needs as scalability is key to long-term IT success.
Transparency Matters
Finally, transparency is one of the most important qualities to look for in an IT provider. Any company should be clear about its pricing structures, service level agreements, processes, and support contracts. If a provider is vague or reluctant to give you specific details, it could mean they are hiding potential costs or limitations. Always ensure you understand exactly what you’re getting in terms of services, response times, and long-term support.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing the right IT support provider is one of the most important decisions your charity can make. From ensuring that your provider has a proven track record in the nonprofit sector to making sure they are transparent and scalable, careful analysis is key. Be wary of companies that agree to everything without proper assessment or those that too quickly dismiss your requests as impossible. Watch out for red flags like unnecessary hardware upgrades, outsourced support services, or a lack of flexibility. Most importantly, ensure that your IT provider operates under a managed service model, offering proactive support that aligns with your charity’s mission.
By keeping these points in mind, your charity can avoid costly mistakes and find an IT partner that will help you thrive in the long term. Take the time to analyse your options, ask the right questions, and look out for warning signs to ensure you’re choosing a provider that will support your organisation’s goals and growth.
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