If you are trying to compare IT providers, you might be finding that it’s more challenging than you expected. It may feel like each provider includes different things in their offering. They may achieve the same goal, but they each go about it a bit differently.
If you are looking for an IT partner for a small to medium-sized business (SMB) in the Northeast, and are struggling to compare local IT providers, we can help.
In this article, we’ll compare two providers: TAB Computer Systems, Inc., and Kelser Corporation. Both companies have good reputations and provide comprehensive managed IT solutions.
If you are thinking that it’s odd that we are comparing our company to a competitor and that this is just an opportunity to pitch our company, please read on.
The reality is that we know our company is not going to be the right solution for every business. The other reality is that, as consumers ourselves, we understand that you will likely use the internet to compare several providers before ultimately deciding what is best for you.
We believe in providing unbiased information business leaders can use to make the IT decision that is best for their organization. The truth is, working with the wrong IT provider isn’t good for anyone.
So, in that spirit, we promise to be as unbiased as possible when comparing ourselves to TAB Computer Systems. There are things they do better and things we do better.
Our solution is a good fit for many SMBs, but we know we are not the only IT company providing services in the area and we get asked this question often, so we know it’s important to address it. We also understand that healthy competition is good for us, our industry, and our customers.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the similarities and differences between both companies. If there is information that we weren’t able to gather from the TAB Computer Systems website, we’ll let you know rather than leaving you wondering why we didn’t include it.
After reading this comparison, you will understand the pros and cons of each IT provider and will be able to decide for yourself which option would be a better fit for your business and your goals.
TAB Computer Systems, Inc.
According to the organization’s website, TAB® Computer Systems has been committed to small business computer and IT support in Connecticut and Western Mass since 1983. At that time, TAB® was a software company focusing on programming for the new IBM PC platform.
Over the years, the company has evolved into a full-service IT technology firm, with a large variety of hardware, software, and service solutions including business VoIP phone systems.
Locations
TAB® is located in East Hartford, Conn.
Services
-
-
IT services
- in-house support
- network monitoring
- project management
- service plan
-
security solutions
- end-point protection
- managed e-mail (encryption, protection against spam, viruses, spyware, and other harmful malware)
- monitoring, detection, and incident response
- multi-factor authentication
- network perimeter protection
- security awareness training
-
-
-
infrastructure
- backup
- bandwidth
- budget
- security
- server room
- specifications
- virtual servers
- wi-fi
- wiring
-
-
-
disaster recovery
- hands-free backup
- Office 365 backup
-
cloud and hybrid cloud services
-
voice over internet protocol (VoIP) phones
-
Typical Clients
While the company’s website doesn’t explain which industries it supports, they feature information from clients in engineering, dry cleaning, marketing communications, waste disposal, building supplies and lumber, and construction companies.
They also list software they are familiar with, which may indicate that they serve customers in the following areas: nonprofits, dental, tax/accounting, finance, construction, medical, legal, manufacturing, insurance, and automotive.
Customer Satisfaction
TAB’s customer satisfaction rate is 92.7 percent out of 100, based on 736 reviews in a recent 90-day period.
Pricing
Pricing information is not available on the TAB® website. You will need to reach out directly to the company for this information.
Awards & Recognition
There are no awards or other forms of recognition listed on the TAB® website.
Who Is A Good Fit For TAB® Computer Systems?
The TAB® website says it has been servicing “businesses in all types of industries and sizes” in Connecticut and Massachusetts for the last 40 years.
Additional Information
In 2021, TAB® Computer Systems, Inc., became 100 percent employee-owned. Since 1995, Computer Talk with TAB has been live on the air at Hartford radio station, WTIC New Talk 1080 AM. Today, the show is simulcast on 96.5 FM HD 2 and the Audacy app.
Kelser Corporation
Kelser Corporation was established in 1981 as New Technology Systems. For more than 40 years, the company has provided IT solutions for corporations as well as small and medium-sized businesses in Connecticut and neighboring states.
Locations
Headquartered in Glastonbury, Conn., the company also has warehouses in Windsor, Conn., and Columbus, Ohio.
Services
-
- firewall security
- remote monitoring
- managed IT services (including antivirus, anti-malware, and email)
- cybersecurity and compliance solutions
- data center services
- business continuity and disaster recovery
- Virtual Chief Information Officer
- unlimited service desk support
- network and wireless
- supply chain services
- cloud-based solutions
- strategic planning and budgetary guidance
- vendor partnerships
- project work
- financing assistance
Typical Clients
Kelser focuses on corporations as well as small and medium-sized businesses in a variety of industries including:
-
- healthcare
- construction
- manufacturing
- finance
- education
- insurance
- legal
Customer Satisfaction
Kelser’s customer satisfaction rating is 91.4/100 percent based on 139 reviews in a recent 90-day period. Click here to see our latest rating.
Pricing
Companies can plan to spend $120 to $140 per user per month for Kelser’s comprehensive managed IT services.
Awards & Recognition
-
- Cloud Tango MSP US (2022)
- CRN Elite 150 (2022 & 2021)
- 2021 Inc. 5000 Regionals: New York City Metro list, (#155 fastest-growing private companies in Connecticut, New Jersey, and NYC)
- CRN Triple Crown Winner (2020)
- CRN Fast Growth 150 (2019)
- CRN Solution Provider 500 List (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019)
- Hartford Courant Top Workplaces, LLC (2014 & 2013)
Who Is A Good Fit For Kelser?
Small and medium-sized businesses in Connecticut and neighboring states looking to support an internal IT team or looking for an outside resource to handle all of its IT needs may be a good fit for Kelser.
The company handles service calls locally and often provides white-glove delivery to local customers, offering a personal touch and providing pre-imaged equipment that arrives ready to plug and play.
Additional Information
The Kelser Foundation, established in 2011, has raised $1,058,283 for local nonprofit partners. Kelser employees also have donated more than 195 boxes of nonperishable food items, gently used clothing, sporting equipment, unused games, toys, and more.
Next Steps In Deciding Your Managed IT Provider
Choosing an IT partner can be overwhelming. There are a lot of things to think about. Here are some to consider:
- What goals do you have for the partnership? How will you measure success?
- What are the business goals that IT can help support?
- What size provider will work best for you?
- Your options include choosing a local vs. nonlocal provider. What’s important to you?
- How does each provider’s service desk work?
- How much will it cost? What does your contract include? What extra costs could you incur?
Whether you are looking to work with a managed IT provider for the first time or just looking to switch from your current provider, there are lots of variables to consider. Check out this article to find out everything you need to know to get the best provider for you: How Do I Choose The Right IT Provider? Criteria You Can Use.
Now you understand how Kelser and TAB® compare, but don’t stop there. Check out other providers as well. And, if you think Kelser might be a good fit for you, we’d love to talk about how we can work together to get your IT working to support your short- and long-term business goals.
