How to Tell if Your IT Budget is Realistic

One of the assets that businesses have to fund is their IT system. This isn’t just their internet connection or the new computers they’re planning to buy. It includes every tech that keeps their business running – their website, IT security, IT services, applications, and so on. Since it can be a large-scale topic for some, the question is, how much money should a company spend on their IT? Being realistic with the costs is the first step to finding the right solution for your business’ needs.

Many businesses cut corners on their IT budget, thinking that it wouldn’t hurt a lot. However, they always end up acquiring substandard tech and services. So to help you set a realistic attitude toward your IT expenses, the following are the aspects you need to consider:

Do you need new hardware?

Businesses should identify first if they actually need new hardware, or they just want a new one. Many companies fall prey to tech advertisements and offer that they spend too much money on purchasing new units.

The key here is to have a smart upgrade plan. This will help businesses decide if they already need to upgrade their hardware. Never jump the gun just because a salesperson offers an attractive piece of tech to you.

Always factor in unexpected repairs and maintenance

Along the way, your system and hardware will encounter glitches, much so for hectic workplaces. Also, if you don’t have a solid IT plan or team, you should factor in higher costs in the future.

Without a reliable IT partner, you may end up spending a lot of money on pay-as-you-go providers. They offer immediate results, but will also cost more money than hiring a full-time IT partner.

Remember that repairs and unexpected costs take up the biggest chunk of your budget. Since repairs can’t be predicted, you have to allow a reasonable amount. To give you an idea, average businesses spend about 4% to 6% of their income on IT.

Redundant tech costs a lot

For businesses that don’t have an IT partner, it’s easy to become victims of unnecessary tech. Some of these overlap and cause confusion among employees. Worse, the maintenance cost pile up and cost more than what you’re supposed to be spending.

An IT advisor can help fix these issues. It may seem like an additional expense, but you’ll be surprised by how much you can save by availing of a professional tech audit.

In fact, you might discover that you’re paying for the same software packages that have similar functions or ones that aren’t utilized well.

Plan your budget with an IT partner

If you don’t have a clear idea of how much you need to spend, hire a trustworthy IT partner. They will help devise your IT plan and calculate the potential costs.

This way, you can see everything that you need in a list complete with a breakdown of expenses. Your IT partner can also discuss each one to you, ensuring that it suits your business’ needs.