By now I’m sure all small business owners are keeping track of their computers, monitors, servers, and the necessary accessories for such on their list of company assets. That equipment and the proficiency of your users are part of the bedrock of your current success, but like electricity, you don’t think of your technical assets until they become your technical liabilities.

What is the true cost of technology? Over my 16 years in business, I’ve come to understand that it depends on how a business owner chooses to achieve his/her goals. How you optimize your technology is no different than making personnel decisions. If you hire someone who is reputed to be at the top of the field and has a track record, then you can expect stellar production once that new person is up to speed at your business. You have invested in the abilities of that person, so you can project your growth and development based on what the new employee will bring to the table. You believe that your investment will help you achieve your goals.

The Right IT Management Company Is Also An Investment To Help You Reach Your Goals

There is a true cost to deliver great, supportive technology, but you should not view this department of your business as a cost center. When you know your technology delivers results, then you understand that you have invested in a process to gain a strategic advantage, rather than believing your tech costs to be just a necessary evil.

I’ve seen small businesses over the years that chose a tech service company based solely on the lowest bid for services. My question then and now is always, “Do you fully understand what you’re giving up?” If your IT management company is not partnering with you on a day-to-day basis, then what will you lose to downtime, lost data, irate customers, and emergency expenses? Why not find instead that IT company you can task to help you achieve your highest goals? Results are the final evidence. Set your expectations for productivity and then find the company that can show you results.

Jason Newburg, 260.243.5100, ext 2001, is the founder and owner of Aptica LLC. This IT management and support company has been serving small to medium-sized businesses for 15 years in the area that includes Angola, South Bend, and Fort Wayne, IN, Battle Creek, MI, and Toledo, OH.