As lift truck users, why are we so reluctant to change our current service provider?  Is it because, like most human beings, we simply don’t like change?  You know I’ve heard it said that “no one likes change except a wet baby.” Is the relationship so strong that any outsider is unwelcome?  Often not… So then, is it that you just feel comfortable with the relationship or maybe that you don’t want to risk any internal disruption to your operation? More likely…

Why would you consider changing if your current vendor is doing a great job at a decent price?  You wouldn’t… after all, the service they provide keeps you out of the daily service issues and what’s out of sight is out of mind.  You concentrate on your core business. Isn’t that why you outsourced service in the first place?  You’re saying, “leave it alone, the technicians do a great job.”

So you think you are happy with the service you are getting from your service provider.  I believe in a strong relationship between customer and vendor.  I always give the incumbent an opportunity to correct their ways before I seriously entertain making a change in vendors. I believe I owe them a second chance, and besides, I don’t need the internal disruption to my operation.  I too don’t like making changes for change sake, but I do speak with other vendors.  This helps me understand what is happening in today’s dynamic marketplace and educates me on new programs that are available.  I’m often surprised at how fast things change, and with such increased competitiveness, I have to stay current.

Sometimes, in the interest of maintaining the status quo, we deprive ourselves of learning about and possibly switching to some other service provider that is so much better. So, like everything, it’s a balancing act. Be loyal to those who deserve it, allow for imperfections as no organization is perfect but stay vigilant in looking for the best overall value and fit for your organization. That’s my take.

Feel free to share your reasons why you don’t change your service provider.