Technology

5 Crucial Keys to Risk Management When You Outsource IT

Whenever a new factor is introduced to a scenario, there’s a high propensity for risk and confusion. It’s that concept that may keep a lot of businesses away from outsourcing their IT departments – the idea that bringing in an outside team can disrupt the way things are already done. Thankfully, there’s less to worry about than you might think, if done right. Here are some core ideas to implement as you look into outsourcing.

Maintaining Employee Morale

With outsourcing can come doubt. Bringing in outside help into the office may cause some loss in morale if not handled correctly. To quell these feelings, it’s important that you emphasize the value that both your employees and outsourced team bring to the company. Walk them through the role your IT support will bring to the company and clarify how it will help your employees do their job better. It’s not about competition, it’s about completion. Frame the decision to outsource as a positive for the company and emphasize how it will make everyone’s jobs easier, not more complicated.

Ensuring Alignment with Your Strategic Plan

Every decision you make as a business owner is meant to advance your goals and mission. That includes outsourcing your IT department. This means that as you look to hire out, you’ll want to revisit your strategic plan and consider how outsourcing will align with it. Oftentimes, outsourcing IT is one of the most strategic choices you can make. Instead of spending the money on hiring an IT team doesn’t make sense for companies who aren’t in the tech industry. Outsourcing allows you to save cash without losing the support you need.

Developing Clear Communications

One of the biggest concerns with outsourcing is the fluidity of communications, especially if you’re outsourced team is remote. Thankfully, there’s plenty of options to keep a clear channel of conversation between you and your IT department that goes beyond email or phone. As we’ve clarified previously on this blog, chat clients and project management tools can make for communication that’s so seamless you might even forget you’re working with someone remotely.

Implement Methods to Avoid Micromanaging

When an outside party comes in, there’s an understandable reaction to want to ensure you’re getting what you pay for. But there’s also some boundaries to be set and trust to be given from both sides. Create parameters that will help you stay informed in what your IT team is up to without breathing down their neck. This could be in the form of weekly reports, check-ins, and routine meetings to discuss progress being made and issues that need to be addressed.

Processes for Quality Control

Your business likely already has some key processes and policies in place for your employees. One of the best things you can do from your side is to grandfather in your outsourced team into these processes so they can seamlessly work with your employees. Your outsourced IT team may also have suggestions as well for reviewing asks and issues. You both can learn from each other and find practical means for making sure all the work that is done meets business standards and elevates your company.

Feeling more assured about taking the leap to outsourcing? ISOutsource can help you and your team with your IT needs, backed by years of experience teaming up alongside businesses to get the results they need. Give us a call today.