Evaluating the True Value of Your IT Partnerships

What is a Virtual IT Director?

A Virtual IT Director (vITD) is an IT expert who helps organisations elevate their technology infrastructure to meet the demands of today's fast-paced technological landscape. These professionals cultivate industry-specific skills through advanced degrees, professional certifications like CISSP and ITIL, and extensive hands-on experience across various industries.

What do vITDs Do?

Virtual IT Directors play a significant part in managing technology for businesses. They are charged with helping businesses to excel in areas such as:

• Strategic Planning: vITDs collaborate with decision-makers to shape IT strategies aligned with organisational goals and budgets.
• Vendor Management: Our vITDs at Netitude work closely with top vendors like Microsoft and ConnectWise to deliver best-in-class software, cloud services, and hardware products.
• Business Management: Leveraging our bespoke NET9 framework, vITDs ensure comprehensive business alignment by prioritising critical IT tasks, such as cybersecurity compliance for sensitive industries (financial or healthcare).

Benefits of a Virtual IT Director

Partnering with a Managed IT Service Provider (MSP) such as Netitude and being appointed with a vITD would provide several benefits for businesses:

• Cost Savings: Access expert IT guidance without the expense of a full-time hire.
• Expertise and Fresh Perspective: Benefit from impartial, knowledgeable insights that can optimize your IT infrastructure and mitigate risks.
• Access to Skilled Professionals: Enjoy flexible, high-level IT support tailored to your needs without navigating long-term commitments.

Introducing the Netitude Virtual IT Directors – What Makes Us Stand Out?

Unlike other MSPs (Managed Service Providers), Netitude's Virtual IT Directors work on a non-commission-based contract, ensuring their recommendations are purely in your organisation's best interest. Our Solutions Team's diverse skills and experience enable us to deliver tailored, practical and effective solutions for every client.

Netitude vITDs won’t be swayed by ulterior monetary motives, incentives, or quotas, as may be the case with other MSPs. Instead, they will work diligently alongside any business Decision Maker to find the right solutions for any business. We’re fortunate to be blessed with a wealth of talent within The Solutions Team at Netitude, with each member bringing a different set of skills and experience that sets them up for success.

We’ve reached out to each member of The Solutions Team to gather their thoughts on what they love about being Virtual IT Directors. Here’s what each team member had to say:

Michael Hamer, Virtual IT Director

“I work on the proactive side of IT with our client’s management teams, making sure IT supports the wider business by being reliable and fit for purpose. I provide guidance on IT vulnerabilities found during audits and consult with clients on expansions, new software, or contractual IT requirements. Together, we create a prioritised IT roadmap and meet quarterly to keep it on track.

The best part of the role is visiting clients and seeing ‘behind the scenes’ – I’ve seen a machine called ‘Big Bertha’, been dwarfed by quarry dumpers, gone through more than one real-life hidden door, and sampled new dessert recipes”.

Dan Bolton, Virtual IT Director

“As a virtual IT Director, I manage multiple businesses across several verticals as the technology strategy manager. My day involves reviewing audits, liaising with clients on business direction, and ensuring IT investments are efficient and aligned with long-term goals. My favourite part of my job is seeing how the solutions we've implemented contribute to moving our client's needs in the right direction”.

Neil Chapman, Virtual IT Director

“As a Virtual IT Director, (vITD), I engage with a diverse range of companies and individuals, continually learning and building relationships, reflecting the integral role of IT in today's businesses.

Developing close professional relationships is of key importance to me. For me, effective, honest communication is essential and it's what drives successful collaborations and innovative solutions”.

A Five-Step Process to Help Choose the Right IT Partner

Still uncertain about which IT partner is suitable for your business? Follow our five-step process!

Step 1: Define Your Goals and Needs

Assess your organisation's IT needs by identifying pain points and clarifying objectives. Consider how an IT partner like Netitude can help harness technology for security, productivity, and growth.

Step 2: Research and Shortlist Potential Partners

Look for IT partners with a strong industry track record, relevant certifications, and comprehensive service offerings. Netitude’s extensive experience and industry accolades make us a reliable choice.

Step 3: Evaluate Compatibility and Value

Ensure cultural fit, communication skills, and value for money. Netitude’s client-centric approach and transparent pricing align a partnership with your goals.

Step 4: Assess Technical Capabilities and Security

Verify proficiency with necessary technologies and adherence to security standards. Netitude’s commitment to innovation and compliance guarantees robust, scalable solutions.

Step 5: Meet the Team and Conduct a Pilot Project

Engage with our Virtual IT Directors and technical team to understand their approach. Consider a pilot project to experience Netitude’s exceptional service and effectiveness first-hand.

The Final Say

In conclusion, the role of a Virtual IT Director (vITD) is invaluable in today’s fast-paced technological landscape. By offering strategic planning, vendor management, and business alignment, vITDs ensure that organisations stay competitive and efficient.

Partnering with a Managed IT Service Provider like Netitude brings numerous benefits, including cost savings, expert guidance, and access to skilled professionals without long-term commitments. Our non-commission-based approach and collective growth mindset, which enable us to deliver bespoke, best-in-class solutions, sets us apart as a recognised top MSP in the UK.

As you consider your IT needs, remember that Netitude’s Virtual IT Directors are here to help you navigate the complexities of technology and drive your business forward. We invite you to reach out for a consultation and discover how our team can support your organisation’s growth and success.

Looking ahead, keeping up with technological advancement will be crucial for any business. With a dedicated vITD by your side, you can confidently embrace innovation and overcome future challenges. Don’t just take our word for it—our satisfied clients can attest to the transformative impact of our services.