Expertise
In your managed service provider questionnaire, make sure they do not operate on a break/fix model. Managed IT partners should never operate on a break/fix model. They should be working to prevent downtime, not fixing it when it happens. You want 24/7 support so your questions will always get answered. Proactive network administration and strategies to make your IT better are ways a stellar IT partner stands out.
Communication
Cost vs. quality
Documentation
A record of your passwords, updates, and network diagrams is also important. This is important because we all need to be on the same page. Your IT team should not become confused about what another employee did. If an IT technician decides to move on from the company, their absence shouldn’t leave you out to dry. Furthermore, if you decide to move on to a different IT provider, you should have documentation so you don’t have to start from scratch.