Choosing a technology partner for IT support and web development firm

Choosing a technology partner is like finding a good car repair shop. Once you find one you probably will stay with them for as long as they are in business. I had an import car and I used to take it to the dealership because I had heard that a local shop doesn’t understand the make and model like the dealership does; but then my uncle was a mechanic who worked under the assumption that if it has wheels and a motor, he could fix it. So I found a local shop. I may pay more, but I know the mechanic and the shop is local which stands by its reputation. This is the same for most tech shops. The first thing is to collect a list of local shops in your area or even national, depending on if they can work remotely and you’re comfortable with that. Ask people you trust who their firm is. Remember this is a partnership. Assess the long term stability of the firm. As with any relationship value will build over time.

Good communication. Make sure the firm has a good process in place, and takes the time to understand your organization and listens to your goals and objectives. Development and support could take several months, and will involve numerous phone calls, emails and possibly face-to-face meetings. It's important the firm communicates effectively and is available to offer support.

I almost always choose my vendors through word of mouth or viral marketing because I trust the people I know and trust the people they give their money and time to.

Price structure. A development firm can either charge you by the hour, or quote a fixed cost per project, depending on the pricing structure of the firm. If you are being charged by the hour, the company can charge you for any extra unexpected developments the project takes. With a fixed quote, you will be charged the quoted price even if the project takes the developers twice the estimated time.If you can't afford everything your website requires, then opt to build your site in phases. Avoid cheap package deals and claims of $300 websites: you get what you pay for. Don't take the risk of driving away traffic and working against your image with a cheap site.

Initially I didn’t understand the old adage, “You can have fast, cheap or good. You choose two but you can’t have all three.” Once I started running a business I ended up living by it. The best firms will almost never be the cheapest because they usually have a waiting list or you need to schedule your work months in advance. If you want your project ramped up quick your going to have to pay. And ultimately you get what you pay for. The first place people go for more information is online. Be sure to create a great site, packed with valuable up to date information for all your potential clients.