The Average Cost of IT Support for Small Businesses
The average cost of IT support for small businesses will vary based on where you get your IT support services from. The average cost for IT support per hour can be anywhere from $25 an hour to $350 an hour. Generally, a monthly IT support contract is much more affordable, especially if you encounter tech issues frequently.
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“Reducing the cost of your IT support isn’t as simple as looking for a lower price tag. Service efficiency and ROI are equally, if not more, important than the upfront and/or hourly cost.” - Kent Morris, President of Gravity Systems |
Additionally, it’s typically more cost-effective to outsource IT support than it is to expand your in-house teams. That’s because the average yearly salary of an experienced IT support technician is around $50,000 to $69,000 per year. Outsourced solutions often come in at a fraction of that, where costs are spread amongst different customers and utilized “on demand”.
Given that cost difference, it’s no wonder that 92% of larger organizations choose to outsource their IT support. Smaller companies would do well to follow this trend.
Still, various companies will charge various prices for monthly IT support for small businesses. That’s why this article will break down what goes into monthly IT support contract pricing and how you can spot a great partner for your budget.
Common Cost Structures For IT Support Contract Pricing
While your IT support cost can vary based on the number of devices or number of users per month, there are also varying cost structures that will make a significant difference in your final cost. Here are some of the most common examples.
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Hourly Rate |
Clients are billed based on the number of hours spent on support tasks. Rates can vary by technician skill level. |
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Fixed Monthly Fee |
Expect to pay a set monthly fee is charged regardless of the amount of support required. Suitable for predictable IT needs. |
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Per Incident |
Clients pay a fee for each support incident. This is ideal for companies with infrequent IT issues or, conversely, companies with a large volume of common helpdesk issues that are typically similar |
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Block Hours |
Clients purchase a block of support hours in advance. These hours are used as needed and can offer a discount over hourly rates. |
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Tiered Pricing |
Pricing varies based on the level of service and support required. Higher tiers include more comprehensive services. |
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Managed Services |
A comprehensive plan where all IT support and maintenance are covered under a single monthly fee. Often includes remote monitoring and management. |
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Project-Based |
Fixed pricing for specific IT projects. Suitable for one-time installations or upgrades. |
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On-Demand Support |
Clients are billed only when support is requested, typically at higher rates than contracted support. |
How to Find The Best IT Support Costs For Your Budget
Know What You Need
The average business overpays for IT services by 10%. The cause of this is usually unutilized services. Avoid this issue by determining the types of support your users need early on. Examples include troubleshooting, training, and regular maintenance. Tailoring services to your user needs reduces your risk of overpaying for underutilized resources.
Avoid Unnecessary Add-Ons
List the essential services needed to maintain your IT infrastructure. Focus on security, backup solutions, and regular maintenance. You can use this information to avoid unneeded service add-ons. Opt for a service package tailored to your specific needs to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Request Detailed Proposals
Ask for detailed proposals from shortlisted providers. Compare the scope of services, pricing models, and support levels. This allows you to choose the provider who offers the best value.
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Learn More About Keeping Your IT Systems Running |
Calculate Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
When calculating TCO, include hardware, software, support services, and downtime costs. This comprehensive view helps you understand the true cost of your IT investments. Based on this calculation, consider the ROI of your IT support. Focus on long-term savings and efficiency gains.
Negotiate Contracts
Thoroughly review contract terms and Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Ensure they clearly define response times, support scope, and penalties for non-compliance. Negotiate terms that allow flexibility as your business evolves. Flexible contracts can adapt to changing needs and prevent long-term overcommitment.
Invest in Preventive Maintenance
Typically, IT support is a reactive service. While it’s important to have, you’ll save costs on this service by investing in proactive measures. Implement regular system checks and maintenance schedules. Preventive maintenance reduces the risk of major issues, allowing you to save money on emergencies.
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Look For Efficient IT Support in These Areas |
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Monitor & Review Regularly
Optimizing IT support costs isn’t over when you choose a partner. Regular reviews help ensure you're getting the expected value from your investment. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to IT support and schedule periodic reviews of your IT support services and costs. Adjust your strategy based on performance, changing needs, and new technology trends.
Optimize Small Business IT Support Pricing With a Strategic Partner
Choosing to outsource your IT support is your first step toward cost-effective services. Your next step is finding a long-term partner who ensures you get a consistent return on your investment by offering tailored solutions that drive tangible results.
You can get that level of support from Gravity Systems. Our focus is on proactive support, so when you choose to use our team, you’ll also gain access to:
Make the most of your IT budget. Choose an experienced team to protect your IT systems. Contact us for your fee consultation today!
