Service Maintenance contracts can feel like car insurance. You can’t say for sure when or if you’ll need the service and you mentally justify why you don’t want to waste money on what ifs. But this isn’t your car. This is your business, your livelihood. Any number of failures in your IT infrastructure can result in loss of data, time, money, maybe even customers. Here we correct ten misconceptions about service maintenance contracts:
1. They’re a waste of money
Most people loathe the idea of paying for a service before they actually need it, but the costs of dealing with emergencies on an as-needed basis can be exorbitant. Signing a contract maintenance agreement does require upfront costs, but it is likely to save you money in the long run.
2. I have an IT department that can handle maintenance issues
Even if you have an IT staff that knows the ins and outs of your hardware, they usually don’t have access to replacement parts or supplies for quick fixes.
3. I still have to pay for parts and supplies
Some managers are reluctant to pay for parts and supplies in addition to the costs of the service contract itself. Yes, there are additional costs involved since the service provider has to source the supplies from somewhere as well, but many providers offer discounts to their contract partners.
4. I can call for emergency service even without a contract
Most managed IT services companies will offer their services on an as-needed basis even if you don’t have a contract with them. However, they tend to give schedule preference to their contract partners, so going without an agreement could lead to longer waiting times and decreased productivity.
5. Contracts are inflexible and inhibit change
People think that entering into a contract will lock them into their current equipment, making it costly to make changes should the business environment require them. The truth is, most reliable service providers want to keep long-term clients, and they will work with you to develop a solution that makes sense for both parties.
6. My equipment hasn’t failed yet
If you’ve had a string of good luck with your IT systems, it’s tempting to assume it will continue ad infinitum. In reality, something always goes wrong eventually.
7. I never get the same technician twice
As is the case with any business, managed IT service providers have to juggle many different factors when it comes to scheduling. Find a partner who will take your preferences into consideration along with availability, knowledge of your equipment, and responsiveness time.
8. I’d rather just buy new equipment if something goes wrong
Many people assume that if their equipment is failing, it’s not worth much anyway. They’d rather buy something new than pay someone to maintain a faulty product. This is likely to cost much more in both time and money than you would spend on a service agreement.
9. The maintenance provider will try to sell me unnecessary upgrades
A reputable IT services company wants what’s best for your organization, and they should never recommend products or services that are contrary to that. Their desire should always be to provide solutions that work for you.
10. I don’t have the time to keep track of a service contract
The best IT services companies will take the burden of worrying off your shoulders by taking the time to keep track of your maintenance schedule and contacting you only when necessary.
Great Lakes Computer offers a wide variety of service agreements that can be tailored to fit your requirements and budget. You get support with a positive attitude and technicians who go above and beyond the service call to ensure that your equipment is running efficiently. When it comes to hardware maintenance, you get a responsive service provider that is both reliable and flexible. Great Lakes Computer offers this and more.
