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IT Partner vs IT Vendor: Which is Best?

There are two levels of IT providers to consider when choosing your new IT team: a partner or a vendor. Find out which choice is best for your company with advice from Portland Oregon IT provider, Fixed Fee IT, Oregon's best IT provider!

Your business is only as dependable as your technology. Maybe you’re growing and need more IT support. Or maybe your current IT provider isn’t giving the service you deserve. There are two levels of IT providers to consider when choosing your new IT team: a partner or a vendor. Discover which choice is best for your company.

What you can expect from an IT Partner:

Strategy

IT Partners are constantly looking at how technology can streamline, accelerate, or impede your business objectives. Your IT partner should encourage strategic planning meetings regularly to find areas of opportunity, growth, and risk mitigation.

Culture Fit

IT partners strive to foster long-term positive relationships with clients. They ensure the partnership is a great culture fit for both companies so that goals and visions align. Not every client is a great fit, so IT partners are selective during the evaluation process.

Your Best Interest in Mind

An IT Partner is only successful when you’re successful. Their team works around the clock to do what’s best for your business.

What you can expect from an IT Vendor:

Low Commitment

If you need a simple transactional service and do not want to commit to a potential long-term partner, an outsourced IT vendor may be the best choice for you.

Budget Option

With an IT vendor, you have the option to request only the bare essentials, sometimes “à la carte” style. If your company only needs a few minimal services, it could be cheaper to use a vendor.

Status-Quo

Sometimes IT service just isn’t a priority for your business. If you aren’t ready to make the jump to increased cybersecurity or strategy, an IT vendor may align better with your business.


Ultimately, the decision is up to you to pick the best option for your business. An IT partner is a great choice when you are ready to take your technology to the next level and want heightened protection. An IT vendor is best if you are looking to forgo full service and security in exchange for a lower price.

Looking to learn more about us? Read about how Fixed Fee IT is different in our blog!

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