Small business leaders are increasingly seeing the value in collaborating with an IT Managed Services provider capable of guiding the C-suite through its technology planning process.

Commonly, the CFO works to ensure that the IT function meets the needs of the business; however, the CFO has several other responsibilities and often does not have time to become an IT expert. In response to this problem, leading IT Managed Service providers have begun offering the vCIO service (Virtual Chief Information Officer). Since many small businesses are evaluating vCIO services for the first time, it’s important to understand the 5 most important qualities a top provider of vCIO services will possess.

1. Ability to align technology with long-term business goals.

Know upfront which contacts at your provider will be involved in vCIO engagements. It’s optimal when a “client-facing” engineer partners with an account manager that possesses a high business acumen.

2. Ability to convey best practices

Technology evolves fast and it’s important to partner with a provider capable of providing best practice advice. Best practice topics can include backup disaster recovery, IT security and workflow management.

3. Industry expertise

Each industry has its own compliance standards and commonly-used applications. Choosing a provider that’s familiar with your industry is very valuable.

4. Budget sensitivity

Providers that understand your total annual IT budget can help you prioritize the projects that need immediate attention versus the nice-to-haves.

5. Strong partnerships

No one is a master of all trades. It’s important to partner with a provider who’s built alliances with other consultants offering complimentary services.

The Walker Group is an IT Managed Services provider headquartered in Farmington, CT serving small and medium-sized organizations throughout Connecticut. Please contact us to learn more about our vCIO service and how it can help your business.

written by:

Brendan Kelly

Brendan Kelly is a Business Alliance Manager focused on building partnerships with technology companies that can help The Walker Group’s clients increase efficiencies, reduce operating expenses and mitigate IT security risks. Prior to assuming the Business Alliance Manager role at Walker, Brendan spent 10+ years in new business sales and account management roles while working for both software and service providers.

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