5 Things You Should Know About Choosing an IBM System x Managed Services Provider

MARKHAM, Ontario - May 10, 2013 - PRLog -- What is IBM System x®?
Simply put, xSeries are intelligent servers designed to reduce your organization’s costs and complexity. IBM System x servers support Microsoft® Windows®, Linux® and virtualization – so your company can run smoothly today and act on tomorrow’s opportunities.

Do you need to know much more about IBM System x?

Not if you can turn to a Managed Services provider with xSeries expertise. More than ever before, midsized companies are relying on service providers to manage their IT infrastructure.

Here are five things you should know about selecting a solid Managed IT Services firm:

 1. Service & Support – Many businesses require 24/7 access to applications  and data and the technical support offered by your Managed Services  provider should be no different. Ask for a Service Level Agreement (SLA) – a  reputable firm will provide one.

2. Business Partner Status – Your Managed Services provider should be at least an IBM Premier Business Partner in good standing. This demonstrates an established, long-term commitment to IBM technology, training and support.

3. Trained and Certified Technical Staff – Hand in hand with IBM Premier Business Partner status is the depth and breadth of training the Managed Services staff have received. Technical staff should have up-to-date certifications on IBM System x and emerging IBM technologies.

4. Reputation & References – How long has the Managed Services provider been in business? Do they offer a full spectrum of IT services? Have they won industry awards? Ask to speak to a handful of customers. How long have they been using the Managed Services provider? Why do they like doing business with them? When issues arise, have they been resolved thoroughly, professionally and quickly?

5. Upfront Fee Structure – When you use a Managed Services provider to support your xSeries servers (or any technology, for that matter), costs should be predictable and controllable. After all, fixed costs may allow you to reallocate capital and operating costs. Get clear on how pricing is structured. Are there long-term contracts? Extra fees for certain services? It’s possible to save between 20% and 50% by outsourcing IT elements to a competent Managed Services firm.

Want to know more about Managed Services for IBM System x?

Contact Mid-Range today at 1-800-668-6470 or info@midrange.ca