The technology we all use in our workplaces has made it possible to do business in ways that were unimaginable 30 years ago. High-speed internet, pocket-sized devices and cloud computing allow us to access data from almost anywhere.
As a result, IT support for small business networks has become more and more important in recent decades – and is now mission-critical for many organisations even outside of purely digital niche markets.
In this guide we’ll look at a range of IT support services for small businesses, from implementing reliable cloud computing, to improving SME cyber security to protect valuable data.
By the end of this guide, you should have a much clearer picture of how an MSP can support small businesses with their IT, what it means for you, and the types of SME IT support services you could benefit from.
Why small businesses need reliable IT support
SMEs face unique challenges. By definition, you have a smaller workforce (up to 50 employees for small businesses, and up to about 250 for medium-sized companies). You also have modest to medium turnover, up to about £50 million maximum.
As your business grows, it’s likely that you introduce some specialists into your workforce. You may have a dedicated finance department, an in-house recruitment team, or a marketing executive.
But keeping a fully trained, highly skilled IT team in full-time employment can be difficult for SMEs. You might only have an occasional need for tech support, or a fairly small computer network. Bringing in an outsourced IT solution is a great option for small businesses, offering the specific expertise you need, within an SME budget.
Preventing Downtime
Business continuity is a non-negotiate for smaller companies, as any length of downtime is likely to have a proportionally greater impact on your productivity and revenues. With 24/7 support a phone call away, you can get your systems back online in an emergency.
Data Security
Rules on data protection are stricter than ever, with severe penalties for significant breaches. Outsourcing cyber security to an MSP gives an SME protection against hacks and attacks, with comprehensive antivirus software and, if appropriate, training for your staff to reduce human error. A good IT service provider will be there with you every step of the way, with advice on cyber security best practices and 24/7 help should the need ever arise.
Planning and Supporting Growth
Successful SMEs can experience rapid growth, and that can put unexpected strain on your IT resources. Speaking to an SME IT consultancy ahead of time is the best way to plan network expansions, as well as obtaining extra software licences as your workforce grows, so everyone has a working computer from the day they start.
Help with Optimising IT Infrastructure
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of optimising your IT infrastructure. Reduced energy bills, more reliable server connections, and enhanced productivity for individual employees can all have a direct impact on the bottom line of a growing business.
Where to start? Help with choosing the right services
We’ll look at some of the main types of IT support for small business customers at Venom IT – but before we do that, how do you know which services you need?
Size and Scale
Think about the size of your business, and how you expect to scale up over the next five years. IT investments you make now will underpin that growth and support your productivity at your future size. Hardware, software and user licences, along with scheduled maintenance contracts, are all part of what keeps your business going day after day.
Existing Infrastructure
It’s likely you already have some IT infrastructure in place. This can guide you when deciding on the types of small business IT support you need. Think also about anything you don’t currently have, but would like to add in the future e.g. real-time remote backup of data, VoIP telephony or reliable ultrafast business broadband.
Pain Points
Are there any aspects of your IT infrastructure that you and your employees complain about on a regular basis? There will always be occasional annoyances, but if the same issue is arising time and time again, it’s worth tackling it. It may be easier to resolve than you expect.
When to ask for advice?
If you’re already researching IT support services for small businesses, it’s probably already time to schedule an initial consultation. The team at Venom IT are always happy to discuss our services with no obligation, to help you figure out exactly what you need.
Which IT services do small businesses usually need?
At Venom IT we aim to provide a suite of SME IT support services that covers everything your growing business may need.
Some of the IT services we can include in your contract:
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing solutions revolutionise small businesses. It’s that simple. Unleash organisation-wide collaboration, store files remotely with secure real-time backups, provide Microsoft 365 software to new employees via instant downloads, and streamline voice and video communications via VoIP.
Managed IT Services
Our managed IT services range from fixing broken devices right up to full-scale Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) – and we can grow with you as your needs change over time. You get the level of support you need with a bespoke contract for the most cost-efficient service possible.
SME Cyber Security
Small business cyber security should be a part of every IT support package, due to the high risk and high impact of hacks and data breaches. We can work with you to install antivirus and antimalware software, real-time monitoring of emails and attachments, and even train your staff to raise awareness of risks arising from mobile devices, Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies and attempted phishing attacks. Comprehensive, cost-effective protection.
24/7 Tech Support
We will do everything we can to ensure nothing goes wrong with your IT infrastructure. But hardware failures, software glitches and human error do happen. When an incident impacts your data or your business continuity, we’ll be there – day or night – to get you back up and running, assess any losses or breaches, and help you decide how best to proceed.
How much does IT support cost for a small business?
No two businesses are the same, and you don’t want to pay for services you don’t need – especially on a small business budget.
That’s why the exact cost of an IT solution can vary substantially, based on elements such as the size of your organisation and the type and number of services you need.
However, it’s true to say that failing to invest in IT support can be much more costly in the long run, especially if you arrive to a broken server or disconnected broadband one morning.
Short-term and long-term gains
In the end, working with an MSP has short-term pay-offs in terms of helping growth and scalability, as well as improving productivity and reducing employee complaints.
Long-term, those gains become exponential as your company grows and productivity continues to pile up, such that the benefits of SME IT support far outweigh the initial financial investment.
Why choose Venom IT?
We welcome all enquiries, whether you’ve already chosen us or you’re comparing several providers – we’re confident that you’ll choose Venom IT in the end.
Our experienced, helpful team will be happy to discuss all of our service options with you, and we’ll be honest about what you do and don’t need.
From an audit and overhaul of your IT infrastructure, to putting in place SME cyber security measures to protect your mission-critical data, we’ll be your long-term tech support partner with 24/7 availability.
To schedule your initial consultation with a member of our team, contact Venom IT today.
