IT support presents unique challenges for manufacturers and distributors. Often, these organizations have limited IT staff or none at all. Managed service providers (MSPs) might operate in a reactive mode rather than helping businesses make proactive decisions, leading to outdated software, lack of responsiveness, and broken EDI solutions. These issues create significant inefficiencies and headaches.
However, with the right approach, IT support can be vastly improved. Whether you’re a manufacturer or a distributor, here are five key strategies to enhance your IT support.
1. Find an IT Support Partner Who Offers True EDI Service
The Challenge
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is crucial for manufacturers and distributors. Unfortunately, most MSPs don’t handle EDI, requiring a separate service provider for this essential technology. EDI providers often prioritize product sales over ongoing support, leaving midmarket customers with inadequate service.
The Solution: Comprehensive IT and EDI Support
Look for an MSP that covers both IT and EDI services. These providers are rare but invaluable. At CMIT Boston, Newton, Waltham, we handle EDI along with all standard IT support services. This integrated approach ensures reliable attention to exceptions, new fields, data mapping, and adding new trading partners.
For more information on our EDI and IT support services, visit our Managed IT Services page and our Contact Us page.
2. Find an IT Support Partner Who Offers Simple Monthly Pricing and Unlimited Service Touches
The Challenge
Variable IT support costs can be a major pain point for manufacturers and distributors. Billing based on ticket count, communication touches, or other factors often leads to unpredictable and large bills, making financial planning difficult.
The Solution: Fixed Monthly Pricing
Seek an IT support partner who provides a simple, fixed monthly pricing model with unlimited service touches. This approach offers financial stability and makes your MSP act more like a true partner. With predictable costs, you can better manage your budget and focus on your core business operations.
At CMIT Boston, Newton, Waltham, we believe in transparent and straightforward pricing. Learn more about our approach on our Managed IT in Boston page.
3. Find an IT Support Partner Who Offers a Service Guarantee for Cybersecurity Incidents
The Challenge
Many MSPs bill separately for services required to recover from a cybersecurity incident, adding to the stress during a critical time. This common practice of metered billing is not customer-friendly and can lead to unexpected expenses.
The Solution: Incident Response Warranty
Look for an IT support partner who offers an incident response warranty. This type of policy guarantees services to contain and clean up a cyber incident at no additional cost, with certain limitations. Such a warranty indicates the MSP’s confidence in their security expertise and commitment to client satisfaction.
For comprehensive cybersecurity solutions and guarantees, explore our IT Support page and our Contact Us page.
4. Find an IT Support Partner Who Doesn’t Charge Extra for Mobile Device Security
The Challenge
Manufacturers and distributors often need employees to access internal systems from mobile devices, either their own or company-provided. Without proper security controls, these devices can expose sensitive data and systems to risks if lost or stolen.
The Solution: Inclusive Mobile Device Security
MSPs should bundle mobile device security services with their basic service tier. Key features to look for include:
- MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication): Requires users to authenticate by at least two methods to access email, Microsoft 365, and other internal applications.
- MAM (Mobile Application Management): Allows control over internal application data on personal devices without wiping personal data.
- MDM (Mobile Device Management): Enables remote management of company-owned devices, including the ability to wipe lost, stolen, or compromised devices.
At CMIT Boston, Newton, Waltham, we integrate these mobile security measures into our standard services. For more details, visit our Managed IT Services page.
5. Find an IT Support Partner Who Offers C-Level Guidance and IT Roadmaps
The Challenge
Midmarket companies often struggle to hire C-level technology executives like CIOs or CISOs due to tight budgets. This lack of strategic leadership results in reactive decision-making and unplanned technology expenditures.
The Solution: Virtual C-Level Guidance
An IT support partner that provides virtual CIO (vCIO) and virtual CISO (vCISO) services can bridge this gap. These experts offer fractional-time consulting, helping to develop a clear technology strategy and proactive decision-making.
Additionally, an ideal partner collaborates with you to create a three-year technology roadmap. This roadmap outlines essential technology initiatives that support your business’s strategic direction, ensuring that your IT infrastructure evolves in alignment with your business goals.
At CMIT Boston, Newton, Waltham, we provide strategic IT consulting and roadmap planning. For more information, visit our IT Support page and our Contact Us page.
The Importance of Proactive IT Support
Proactive IT support goes beyond just fixing issues as they arise. It involves anticipating potential problems and implementing solutions before they affect your operations. This approach minimizes downtime, enhances productivity, and ensures that your IT infrastructure can support your business’s growth and evolving needs.
Benefits of Proactive IT Support
- Reduced Downtime: By identifying and addressing issues early, proactive support minimizes disruptions to your business.
- Increased Productivity: Reliable IT systems enable employees to work efficiently without technical interruptions.
- Cost Savings: Preventing problems before they occur can save significant repair and recovery costs.
- Scalability: Proactive planning ensures your IT infrastructure can scale with your business.
Enhancing IT Support for Manufacturing and Distribution
Manufacturers and distributors face unique IT challenges, but with the right support strategies, these challenges can be effectively managed. By partnering with an IT support provider like CMIT Boston, Newton, Waltham, you can achieve reliable and efficient IT operations that support your business goals.
Why Choose CMIT Boston, Newton, Waltham?
- Comprehensive Services: We offer a full range of IT support services, including EDI, cybersecurity, mobile device management, and strategic consulting.
- Predictable Pricing: Our simple monthly pricing model provides financial stability and peace of mind.
- Expertise and Experience: With extensive experience in supporting manufacturers and distributors, we understand your unique needs and challenges.
- Proactive Approach: We prioritize proactive support to prevent issues and ensure your IT systems are always performing optimally.
For more information on how we can enhance your IT support, visit our website or contact us directly through our Contact Us page. Let CMIT Boston, Newton, Waltham help you achieve seamless and efficient IT operations, allowing you to focus on your core business activities.
Conclusion
Manufacturers and distributors face distinct IT challenges that can significantly impact their operations. From managing EDI systems and ensuring cybersecurity to optimizing mobile device usage and strategizing IT investments, having the right IT support is crucial. At CMIT Boston, Newton, Waltham, we understand these unique needs and are committed to providing comprehensive, proactive IT support tailored to your business.
By partnering with us, you can benefit from:
- True EDI and IT Integration: Simplify your operations with a provider that handles both IT and EDI support, ensuring seamless functionality and efficient problem resolution.
- Predictable Monthly Pricing: Gain financial stability and peace of mind with our simple, fixed monthly pricing model that includes unlimited service touches.
- Robust Cybersecurity Guarantees: Protect your business with our incident response warranty and integrated security measures that come as part of our standard service offerings.
- Comprehensive Mobile Device Management: Secure your mobile workforce with best-practice controls for both company-owned and personal devices.
- Strategic IT Guidance: Access expert C-level guidance through our vCIO and vCISO services, and collaborate on a three-year technology roadmap to align IT initiatives with your business goals.
At CMIT Boston, Newton, Waltham, our goal is to help manufacturers and distributors achieve reliable, efficient, and secure IT operations. We believe that proactive support and strategic planning are key to overcoming IT challenges and driving business growth.
For more information on how we can assist you, visit our website or contact us directly through our Contact Us page. Let us help you transform your IT support and ensure your business thrives in today’s competitive environment.
