Optimal Reporting from your IT Provider

What Reports Should You Expect from Your IT Provider?

Here’s something many businesses overlook: most IT companies are run by IT people. (Shocking, we know.)

The real problem? Many IT providers send out monthly “reports” that are full of jargon—pages of technical data that don’t actually tell you much unless you’re fluent in geek-speak. From a technician’s point of view, this might seem fine. But from a business leader’s perspective, it’s frustrating and unhelpful.

Over time, many providers start assuming their clients don’t care about reporting. But that’s not true. You do care—you just want clear, relevant insights into how your systems are doing and what deserves your attention.

At Takala Technology, we believe in transparency. Here are four essential reports your IT provider should be delivering each month—clearly and consistently:

1. Backup Reports

Your data is your business. Backups aren’t optional—they’re critical. This report should answer:

Which devices are being backed up?
Were the backups completed and tested successfully?
How often is this happening?

A reliable IT partner ensures this is done regularly—and proves it. You shouldn’t have to chase down this info, but if you’re not seeing it, that’s a red flag.

2. Asset Management

How many computers do you have in operation? How old are they? Who’s using what—and which machines are due for replacement soon?

This report should help you:

Stay on top of your tech inventory
Plan proactively for upgrades or replacements
Budget smarter for future IT needs

If your provider isn’t tracking this or sharing it, ask them to start now.

3. Security Reports

Cybersecurity is serious—your reporting should reflect that. While these reports may contain technical language, your provider should translate the key takeaways into clear terms. For example:

Green = Safe
Red = Needs Attention

At Takala Technology, we break it down so you can quickly understand the health of your systems. Patching schedules, blocked threats, and vulnerability updates all show how we’re keeping your environment secure.

4. Service Ticket Reports

This is the lowest priority report—but it still matters. It gives you visibility into:

How many service tickets were submitted
How quickly they were resolved
Any recurring issues worth flagging

Some providers don’t prioritize this unless asked—but if it helps you understand IT’s impact on your operations, it’s worth requesting or enabling through your client portal.

Final Thoughts

This list isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a strong foundation. If your current provider is consistently delivering reliable reports in these areas, that’s a great sign—you’re in good hands.

If not—and especially if they get defensive when you ask—it may be time for a second opinion.

Looking for a more transparent, responsive IT partner?
We’d love to talk. At Takala Technology, we make sure our clients stay informed, supported, and ahead of the curve.