You have built your insurance firm from the ground up and have also wanted to maintain a fierce competitor in the insurance market, but lately there seems to be a change. This might be because your competitors have decided to rely on IT outsourcing. This has given them the chance to allocate more of their company’s funds to a more important matter, the client. While small- to medium-sized insurance firms often fight to keep competitive, they also realize the importance of keeping up in technology. Clients want ease of use from their insurance company. They want customer portals to access their accounts in the middle of the night. They want to feel like their insurance company is providing the best for their buck. They are looking at insurance companies that have migrated to IT outsourcing in their business model. When looking for a reliable IT outsourcing company, be sure to ask questions that will benefit your company.

How long have you been in business?

This is a matter of peace-of-mind for you, their customer. You want to make sure the company has been in the IT outsourcing business for a good period of time. It shows they have the knowhow to succeed and move forward. Besides, you want to make sure the money you are paying them is going toward future technologies for your business, not last month’s electric bill.

How long have your technicians been with you?

This may seem like a strange question, but you are looking for solidarity in personnel and the company. You want to find out if their IT personnel have been there for a long period of time, so you know if they are familiar with the protocols set by the company. The outsourcing provider may have been around for 20 years, but if their staff has only been around for a year, then that should tell you something.

What clients do you have from the insurance industry?

If the IT outsourcing company has had several clients then they should have a couple that would act as a referral. Many companies do not want their names to be mentioned because they do not want to act as a sponsor, but there are always a couple that will be okay with it. This is helpful when considering if the provider has the required certifications, such as HIPAA, that are required in your industry or state. Learn about other considerations of concern:

What happens to my data if I leave?

When you set up your outsourcing through a cloud company, you will be placing your data in their hands. If for some reason you decide you do not like the company you selected you may decide to find another. Make sure your data is destroyed on their servers, and that they will help with moving the data to your new IT outsourcing provider.

What are your hours of operation?

Most companies will have long hours. But, what happens if you are burning the midnight oil and there is a problem? Ask them. Make sure the answer they give you is in the contract you sign. Most providers have techs who work 24 hours and will promise a high percentage of up-time for your network.

These are just some of the simple question you should ask an IT outsourcing provider before considering signing up with them. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions you have. If they cannot answer you in a way you can understand, avoiding technical jargon, then consider going to someone else.

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