Remote IT support is a popular option for many Australian businesses, but it might not actually be the best one. Depending on the style and size of your business, having onsite IT support services can offer a range of benefits, from time and cost savings, to improved efficiency.
In 2020, remote working is on the rise due to COVID-19 but not all workers can and will stay at home once the pandemic subsides. IT support services are a crucial part of business as they help employees stay connected and do their best work, which also aids in keeping valuable data safe from cyber threats.
If you’re considering IT support, it’s helpful to know your options and to consider the benefits of onsite IT support services for you and your team.
What kinds of IT services could I need help with?
IT support can help you with a whole range of technology, hardware and software setup, troubleshooting and maintenance. Common services include:
- Desktop support
- Software installation and updates
- Data recovery and back-ups
- Cyber security
- Network configuration, and
- Hardware (just to name a few).
Options for IT support services
When it comes to getting help with your IT systems, you have a few options. Many IT businesses offer flexible plans that allow you to scale up or scale down as your business changes.
Remote
A common practice in large corporate offices, remote IT support is where an IT technician has the ability to log into your network from another location and take control of a device to troubleshoot, fix an issue or update software.
Virtual helpdesk
This IT support service is a blend of on-site and remote. IT technicians can be sent out on demand to attend to any IT issues raised by staff. It’s like on-site support but you don’t have to hire someone full-time.
On-site
Often considered the traditional option, having on-site IT support services involves a dedicated IT person who works in your team at your office. They can be outsourced from an external company, or you may choose to hire someone full-time as part of your business.
While remote support may initially appear to be cheaper, on-site IT support services have a number of benefits – so let’s take a look at five of the reasons why on-site IT support might be a great option for your business.
1. Encourages staff to ask for help
When there’s an IT technician on-site, staff are more likely to report issues, no matter how big or small they are. This is important because often the small issues can build up to larger ones over time, so catching the little bugs now can save you time and money in future. Plus, it’s often easier to communicate IT problems in person to someone who understands how your business works, than to someone who hasn’t seen your office.
2. Not all issues can be solved remotely
There’s a lot that can go wrong with IT and not all of it can be fixed virtually by a technician. Some issues require in-person help, like hardware. When a computer won’t boot up or perhaps a wire short circuits, it will have to be fixed or replaced by an IT expert. When you have a dedicated on-site IT support person working alongside you, it often provides another layer of reassurance when things don’t go according to plan with your tech.
3. More hands-on support
Mystery sounds and flashing lights can’t be discovered remotely or virtually, only in person. Having an on-site IT support technician ensures you have a dedicated set of eyes and ears to pay attention to and investigate any alerts or warning signs. It’s also quite difficult to describe strange sounds and lights to someone on the phone or in a virtual help desk, which can lead to misdiagnosis of issues or to further problems as a result.
4. Cost (and time) savings
While it may seem like an on-site IT technician would be more expensive than a remote one, there are advantages and cost (as well as time) savings to be had. One of the main savings is travel – with IT support on the ground, you don’t have to cover travel expenses or wait around for help to arrive. This means that more IT issues can be taken care of faster which can ultimately improve work efficiencies and help the bottom line.
5. Quick response
As mentioned, technology issues can be addressed faster with on-site IT support, but the quick response is also due to the technician already being familiar with your operating systems. They don’t need to spend as much time locating the issue or familiarising themselves with your office – they are already a trusted part of your support team.
Need help with your IT? Let the Geeks help!
We’ve supported more than 58,370 businesses across Australia with our professional and thorough on-site IT support services. So if you’re in a pickle and need ongoing or urgent IT help, we can help. Our fees are transparent and there are no hidden costs – get a quote today or give us a ring on 1300 951 836 to discuss what you need.
