If the only time you speak to your IT provider is when it’s time to renew your contract, there’s a problem.
Technology isn't a one-and-done setup. It evolves constantly, and so do the threats that come with it. If you run a small business in Vancouver, quarterly check-ins with your IT support provider should be non-negotiable.
These check-ins keep your systems secure, efficient, and aligned with your business goals. But here’s the challenge, most business owners aren’t sure what to ask.
Here’s your cheat sheet: seven key questions your IT provider should be ready to answer clearly, without jargon or fluff.
- Are There Any Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities We Need to Fix Right Now?
This isn’t just routine maintenance. You need to know:
- Is our antivirus up to date?
- Are there unpatched systems or outdated software?
- Have there been any near misses we should know about?
You're not being overly cautious, you’re staying ahead of real risks. In Vancouver, where cyberattacks on small businesses are rising, this is a must.
- What’s the Status of Our Backups? Have You Actually Tested Them?
Think of backups like insurance. If they don’t work when you need them, they’re useless.
Ask your provider:
- When was the last full restore test?
- Are we using the right backup strategy, local, cloud, or hybrid?
- Is everything stored securely and in compliance with Canadian data laws?
You’d be surprised how many Vancouver businesses think they’re covered, until they’re not.
- Are Our Employees Following Cybersecurity Best Practices?
All it takes is one click on the wrong email link.
Questions to ask:
- Have there been any red flags in user behavior or logins?
- Do we need updated phishing training?
- Is multifactor authentication in place and enforced?
Managed IT services should include user training and behavior monitoring, especially with hybrid teams and remote work on the rise in Vancouver.
- Is Our Network Holding Us Back?
Slow systems can quietly kill productivity. Ask:
- Are there recurring issues slowing us down?
- Are we due for hardware or software upgrades?
- Can anything be optimized to improve speed?
Even small changes to your IT infrastructure can lead to faster workflows and happier clients.
- Are We Still Compliant With Industry Standards?
Depending on your industry, whether it’s healthcare, legal, retail, or financial, compliance matters.
Ask:
- Are we meeting all current compliance requirements (like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, or PIPA)?
- Have any laws or standards changed recently?
- Do we need to adjust our policies or tools?
Non-compliance can mean heavy fines or legal trouble. Your IT support team should be on top of this.
- What Should We Budget for Next Quarter?
Great IT support isn’t just about fixing, it’s about planning.
Questions to cover:
- Are any licenses or warranties expiring?
- Is any hardware near end-of-life?
- Are there new projects we should be preparing for?
This kind of insight helps you avoid sudden expenses and manage your tech budget wisely.
- Are We Falling Behind on IT or Cybersecurity Trends?
Tech moves fast, and if your business falls behind, you’re not just inefficient, you’re exposed.
Ask your IT partner:
- Are there newer tools or security protocols we should consider?
- What are other businesses in Vancouver doing that we’re not?
- Are there new threats we should be preparing for?
A proactive managed IT provider won’t wait for you to ask, they’ll bring these updates to the table first.
Not Asking These Questions? That’s a Red Flag
If your IT provider can’t give clear, specific answers, or worse, they’re not offering quarterly check-ins at all, it might be time to rethink your support.
At Comwell System Group, we help small businesses across Vancouver stay secure, productive, and ahead of the curve with proactive, reliable managed IT services and cybersecurity solutions.
We offer a free security assessment to help you understand where you’re at and where your risks are.
Click here to book your assessment and get clear answers, not tech-speak.
