Hey Look a Shiny New…

In the world of IT and technology there are new products, vendors, and businesses models that spring up promising the latest and greatest in techno bliss. It’s fun for us geek types to check out the newest products and services that hit the market; it is one of the reasons many of us are in this line of work.

Having worked with many IT solution companies and MSP’s, one thing that seems to be a recurring theme with every company is the fact that most IT businesses have been burned by a vendor at one point or another. Some of those new vendors that promised the world, under deliver or worst yet, close their doors leaving you to hold the bag and explain things to your customers.

In the IT industry loyalty is strong and the vendor/provider relationship is a pretty sacred bond. For many that move to a new solution,then to get burned, going back to the original vendor becomes next to impossible from a pride standpoint. This fact makes evaluating new solutions and especially new vendors even more important.

Be sure if you are looking to make a switch that it is for the right reasons. Talk to your existing vendor. If you are looking at moving based on price, a quick call may be a worthwhile investment, as most vendors want to keep your business. This becomes even truer when there is a competitive element attached. If the move is for newer technology, that same phone call may gain you information about upcoming additions or changes to the current vendor product line.

Sometimes change is a necessity and if your current vendor isn’t meeting your needs, or is letting you down, it may be time to explore other options. Most of the time though, the reason IT companies explore new partnerships can usually be tracked back to a lack of communication. Though all vendors can get better at communication, building a relationship is a two-way street. This makes returning calls, attending webinars, and reaching out regularly an important part of running a successful business.

It just may be, that the shiny new thing, is right in front of you… 

Frank Gurnee
VP, Channel Services, ExchangeDefender
(877) 546-0316 x4777
frank@ownwebnow.com