IT Consulting - Computer/Server Maintenance Agreement

**Hurricane09** · 08-01-2007 11:17 AM

Hi All,

Looking at starting my own Computer Consulting business (have been in the industry for a decade now) and really like the idea of offering Computer/Server Maintenance Agreements. More companies, especially smaller ones seem to be getting away from having their own IT department and I really think this is a good area to build consistent month-to-month income. My question is; Is anyone on these forums doing this already? If so, how is it going for you? What rate are you charging? I was thinking of $40/pc/month, which would include all updates, spyware removal, defrag, etc., basically preventative maintenance once a month, and offer a discounted rate for anything over and above the maintenance.

Ideas/rates welcome!

Thanks in Advance,
Bob.

**pbradish** · 08-01-2007 11:56 AM

Hey Bob,

I've been doing some computer consulting alongside my internet consulting for a few small businesses in my area. I have been holding them to a flat hourly rate of $35/hr per service call.

I've decided to work that way for the time being until I am able to establish a larger list of clients, but there are undoubtedly some better ways/ideas out there on how to charge for such a service.

**stand856** · 08-01-2007 12:10 PM

Pbradish would you mind sharing what type of businesses you work with?

**WasabiDoobie** · 08-08-2007 01:05 PM

I completely agree with two of your main points - small and large companies are outsourcing internal IT needs & I have always found it wise to base cashflow on concistant figures (such as those from monthly/weekly agreements).

As far as rates, I would have to say it is really based on your worth and market environment. Ranges where we do business at ranges from $40 - $150 an hour for standard IT support. We have opted to do a site/location agreement vs per unit agreements. Customers commit to a minimum amount of hours per week/month/quarter - additional services, or if maintenance takes longer, it is charged at the agreed hourly rate.

This has enabled us to get consistent cash flow projections - any upgrades, installations, rollout or special projects are gravy on top!

Good luck.