When you need on-site service for your business network, is that technician the guy who should offer you budget advice? Who do you ask when you need to know how long that new hardware should last, or whether or not your software is still leading edge in your industry? Do you have a “rainy day” fund for IT emergencies, or do you know that every day you are open for business your computer network will add to your growth and productivity?
Outsourced IT management is an insurance policy for your business, but you do need to have that key person who can answer your technology questions when they come up. That’s why it’s important to know that your IT company offers virtual chief information officer services. This person provides executive level IT consulting when you are planning next year’s operating budget, when your company’s growth and development require change or expansion, or when an IT emergency needs immediate resolution and how that may impact your immediate budget. A VCIO is more than just the IT guy fixing a crash or setting up a new work station. The VCIO has to understand how every aspect of your technology will impact your day-to-day productivity and your bottom line. So while you don’t have to provide office space, benefits, or that dreaded annual review for your VCIO, he or she performs all the critical functions that relate to the network technology that keeps your business viable in your markets.
If your outsourced IT management company is not offering you a VCIO—maybe it’s time you learned more about why this position should be a part of your operations team. I’m happy to answer any questions you have about outsourcing your company’s IT system, or about what to expect from a VCIO. Call me, Jason Newburg, owner at Aptica, 260.243.5100, ext. 2001.