8313 Information technology (IT) consulting and support services

**Includes:** - providing advice or expert opinion on technical matters related to the use of information technology, such as: • advice on matters such as hardware and software requirements and procurement • systems integration • systems security • provision of expert testimony on IT related issues **Excludes:** - providing advice, guidance and operational assistance concerning the use of information technology by businesses, such as the development of an e-commerce strategy, cf. 83111 - service contracts where advice is bundled with the design and development of an IT solution (website, database, specific application, network, etc.), cf. the appropriate information technology (IT) design and development service under 8314

**Includes:** - provision of technical expertise to solve problems for the client in using software, hardware, or an entire computer system, such as: • provision of customer support in using or troubleshooting the software • upgrade services and the provision of patches and updates • provision of customer support in using or troubleshooting the computer hardware, including testing and cleaning on a routine basis and repair of IT equipment • technical assistance in moving a client's computer system to a new location • provision of customer support in using or troubleshooting the computer hardware and software in combination - provision of technical expertise to solve specialized problems for the client in using a computer system, such as: • auditing or assessing computer operations without providing advice or other follow-up action including auditing, assessing and documenting a server, network or process for components, capabilities, performance, or security • data recovery services, i.e. retrieving a client's data from a damaged or unstable hard drive or other storage medium, or providing standby computer equipment and duplicate software in a separate location to enable a client to relocate regular staff to resume and maintain routine computerized operations in event of a disaster such as a fire or flood - other IT technical support services n.e.c.