How to build a predictable IT budget

Where the surprises come from

Most unbudgeted IT costs come from three places: hourly support that varies from month to month, unplanned computer replacements, and licenses and cloud services that grow without anyone keeping track.

A fixed price for IT operations

A fixed monthly price per user for IT operations and support makes costs predictable. It also gives your provider an incentive to prevent problems instead of profiting from them.

Plan hardware replacements

Computers have an expected lifespan. When you know how old your equipment is, you can spread replacements evenly over the years instead of facing one large bill all at once. Review licenses and cloud usage regularly so you pay only for what you use.