How to Hold Your IT Department Accountable
Many business owners lack the technical expertise to determine whether their IT department, IT manager, or outsourced vendor is truly performing in alignment with business goals. Too often, executives assume their technology is “working fine” simply because emails are going through and computers appear operational. However, appearances can be misleading. Without performance benchmarks or visibility into key metrics, it’s impossible to hold an IT department accountable for results like uptime, efficiency, and strategic growth.
On TNtv, Mike Heil, Owner of ThrottleNet, discussed how business leaders can gain better control over their technology strategy and make their IT department accountable to measurable outcomes. Heil explained that while most executives understand their own industries deeply, few have the technical insight to assess IT performance beyond surface-level functionality.
“Many business owners assume things are working well if their systems seem to be running and emails are being sent and received,” Heil said. “But it takes a skilled technology professional to evaluate whether your infrastructure is truly optimized for performance, security, and scalability.”
Heil emphasized that a proactive IT strategy—supported by data-driven performance reviews, documented processes, and regular reporting—helps keep the IT department accountable and aligned with overall business objectives. This level of oversight ensures technology isn’t just operating—it’s driving measurable business results.
Watch this episode of TNTv below!
Top Questions to Hold Your IT Department Accountable
Heil said a business owner should be asking their IT department, staff person, or managed service provider three key questions about their computer network.
1. Is your network monitored properly? Heil indicated that someone should be watching the network and ensuring the proper software is installed and backups and workstations are running properly. This should all be documented in a report written not in technical terms but in language anyone can understand it.
2. Has the network been designed in a logical way? Rather than plugging in wires wherever they may fit Heil said a business should have a plan for their network. Everything should be setup in a logical consistent pattern including works stations, security, firewalls and servers. Documentation should be utilized to ensure this practice is taking place.
3. Should you be investing in your technology and are there are logical reasons to do so? Perhaps a business needs more bandwidth or faster Internet speed for expansion or for hiring additional staff. Investing in your network should be a logical decision based on detailed information in line with your business goals.
Detailed and documented reporting by a skilled IT professional adds accountability to your technology investment, ensures your network and/or IT department is performing in a profitable, efficient manner and enables you to sleep well knowing you are handling your technology, and essentially your business, in the best way possible.
Enhancing IT Accountability for Stronger Security and Performance
Moreover, accountability in an IT department doesn’t just improve performance—it also enhances security. In today’s digital landscape, cyber threats are more prevalent than ever, and a lapse in IT oversight can leave your business vulnerable. By holding your IT department accountable for implementing security best practices and staying updated on the latest threats, you minimize the risk of costly data breaches and downtime. An accountable IT department ensures that cybersecurity measures are consistently enforced, making your company more resilient against attacks.
Additionally, partnering with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) can help reinforce this accountability. MSPs provide regular reporting, monitoring, and assessments, giving you full visibility into your IT operations. This transparency not only ensures that your IT department is meeting its goals but also provides peace of mind that your technology investments are being maximized. When IT accountability is prioritized, it drives better performance, cost-efficiency, and long-term business success.
Incorporating accountability into your IT department also fosters a culture of continuous improvement. When clear goals and performance metrics are in place, your IT team is encouraged to identify inefficiencies and seek innovative solutions to improve processes. Regular evaluations and feedback loops promote growth and adaptability, ensuring that your IT infrastructure evolves with the changing needs of your business. This proactive approach not only optimizes operations but also positions your company to stay ahead of industry trends and technological advancements.
