Why SMEs Outgrow DIY IT Support And What To Do Next

Most SMEs start their business journey with an informal IT support setup. It’s easy to manage, with minimal responsibilities and a relatively low cost. Even if things start going wrong or above your expertise, you could always tap in an ad hoc freelancer to troubleshoot on the odd occasion. 

However, as the business grows, expectations and demand increase, making it impossible for DIY IT support to perform the job properly. For a lot of founders, it can be hard to spot the signs that it’s time to outsource your SME IT support. 

Join us in this blog as we identify some of the key signs an SME is outgrowing its DIY IT support.

Why DIY IT Support Works At First

There’s no denying that in the beginning, DIY IT support covers your basic needs. Email setup, laptop setup, software access and simple troubleshooting can all be done on the fly. This approach isn’t ‘wrong’, it is just limited. Your business is restricted in the speed and scale at which it can grow. Handing your SME IT support over to the experts at the right time is essential to reaching that next stage of business.

The Signs Your SME Has Outgrown DIY IT Support

Having worked with SMEs across Berkshire and the UK, we know the telltale signs of a business that has outgrown its DIY IT support and instead needs professional help.

IT Problems Keep Interrupting The Working Day

The biggest sign you need to upgrade your SME IT support is if IT problems keep interrupting your working day. Slow devices, login issues, wifi problems and software trouble, such as Microsoft 365, can all create friction within your business. Issues with these hamper productivity, no matter how small they seem. Remember, they all add up.

You Are Relying On One Person Too Much

You might already have a member of your team who is considered the go-to “IT person”, but the reality is their time is usually better spent contributing to the business in other ways. They are, of course, just slightly better with IT than anyone else in your business, but they are still likely to be limited in expertise. There is also the issue of if they go off sick or leave the company, you are left in limbo.

Cyber Security Has Become Too Complex

As cybersecurity standards improve, it can be hard to keep up unless you are a qualified IT professional. The addition of security measures such as MFA, password policies, endpoint protection, email filtering and updates can be too much for any DIY IT setup. SMEs need consistent security, not occasional checks.

Backups And Recovery Are Unclear

You have to ask yourself as a business leader, if your business lost important files tomorrow, could you restore them quickly? Your IT support should cover regular and tested backups to prevent the worst from happening.

The Hidden Costs Of Staying DIY For Too Long

While it may seem on the surface that your DIY IT support is saving you money, it can actually be costing your business more than you think. Lost staff time during downtime, or spent trying to incorporate emergency fixes, all add up financially, while there is no invoice to physically pay. 

There are then the limitations of your systems. Poor performance can hamper how far your business can go, especially if using outdated operating systems. SMEs need to be agile, and with an antiquated IT system, you are far from that. Ultimately, this can cost your business in future deals.

As a business owner, you need to weigh up the value of marginally reduced costs compared to the savings you make on risk, stress and disruption with professional IT support.

Why Local IT Support Matters For Berkshire SMEs

Whether you’re an SME that operates locally, nationally or globally, it is always advisable to get a local IT support business to help with your operation. For Berkshire SMEs, VCI Systems is on hand to provide virtual and on-site support to keep your business ticking. The local provider is able to get a better understanding of your business environment, tailoring support perfectly to your needs.

Speak To VCI Systems About SME IT Support

If you’re looking for a reliable and proactive IT support partner for your SME, VCI Systems is on hand to provide you with the help you need. We are proud to offer transparent and jargon-free support. Our business IT support service helps businesses save time, reduce stress and plan confidently. Get in touch with VCI Systems today to find out more. 

FAQs

What Is SME IT Support?

SME IT support is designed to cover all things IT for small to medium-sized enterprises. This includes helpdesk, cyber security, cloud, backups and strategic advice.

When Should A Small Business Stop Managing IT Itself?

If your small business has recurring issues, security concerns, unclear backups or over-reliance on one person, it may be time to look to outsource your business IT support.

Is Managed IT Support Cheaper Than Hiring An IT Employee?

Managed support is often more cost-effective for SMEs because it provides wider expertise without full-time employment costs.