Experiencing a cybersecurity breach is every company’s worst nightmare. You need a trusted partner in your corner as you recover your data and restore business operations. After being hit with a breach, many cyber insurance providers will set a company up with a nationwide service provider. However, many businesses do not realize that they have a choice when it comes to their managed IT service. The IT firm that your insurance company recommends may not be the company that most aligns with your business.
The Advantages of Local IT Providers
There are certain advantages to choosing a local managed IT service provider (MSP) over a national provider:
- Offers Customized Solutions - Local providers know the businesses they serve, from their infrastructure to the nuances of their operations. That means they take the time to get to know your business and tailor solutions for a faster, more focused recovery. After a breach, a hands-on recovery plan can make all the difference, compared to generic solutions.
- Faster On-Site Response - A local provider can typically respond faster than a national organization. If an issue cannot be solved over the phone or through a support portal, a technician will have to go onsite to fix it. National MSPs may take days to send someone. A local provider can typically dispatch technicians quicker, helping you return to business as usual much faster.
- Stronger Long-Term Partnerships - By choosing a local provider, you are able to build an ongoing IT partnership. A local provider is often able to communicate more openly and collaborate with you to solve your business problems.
While national providers may offer certain advantages like broader expertise, local MSPs can often provide more specialized services and be more responsive overall.
What Should You Look For In A Provider?
- Proximity - Consider the importance of having fast on-site support. If your business needs solutions within hours in critical situations, then a local MSP may be the right choice for you.
- Expertise - Having a managed IT service that understands your business and its unique IT requirements is essential. National MSPs have access to talented technicians, but they may not know what your business needs at a local level. Local expertise means that technicians are familiar with your specific environment and are able to troubleshoot problems quickly.
- Strong Communication - Reflect on your preferences for communication and find a provider that can meet your needs. Local MSPs may offer more face-to-face interaction, compared to a national provider that may rely more on digital communication.
- Cost Effectiveness - Evaluate your budget to help you determine the right MSP for you. The right managed service provider will strike the perfect balance between price and service quality.
Looking For A Managed IT Provider?
A cybersecurity breach is disruptive, but having the right systems and team in place can help you recover with confidence. Knowing that your business is backed by someone who knows you, not just the company that your insurance picked, makes all the difference in the world. If your business has experienced a breach or you simply want a local partner who can work to protect your long-term interests, our team at Progressive Computer Systems is ready to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and safeguard your business.
