A Complete Guide To Managed IT Services
What are managed IT services?
In the wake of the pandemic, more and more people are transitioning towards remote working, and, as a result, we’ve witnessed a surge in the number of businesses choosing to improve the efficiency of their teams by optimising IT processes.
When it comes to digital transformation, many companies tend to fall short. Either employees lack the necessary expertise, or the hardware they require is too costly, hence why many businesses turn to managed IT services.
So, what is managed IT? It’s a strategic decision that allows organisations to scale up without incurring the financial burden of an in-house team. Plus, opting for managed IT services, provides access to a wider pool of talent in a competitive market where top-tier talent is hard to come by.
For a fraction of the cost associated with a single internal security hire, you gain access to a monthly subscription service with an entire team trained in the latest IT security measures. Cut out the hiring process, skip the training procedures, and benefit from a heightened security stance instantaneously.
Introducing the managed services provider (MSP)
In this guide to managed IT services, we’ll cover everything you need to know. Your managed services provider (MSP) supports your business in every way imaginable, from your network and infrastructure, to cybersecurity and applications, they’ve got you covered.
The daily responsibilities of your MSP will vary depending on the nature of your company. Many businesses use managed service providers for:
- Cloud services
- Safe data storage
- Security maintenance
- Disaster recovery
- Document migration
- Encryption management
Cloud providers can result in substantial cost savings. Whether it’s one computer or any entire network, your MSP works behind the scenes to ensure everything is in order.
Who needs managed IT services?
MSPs offer seamless IT support for employees outside of traditional office environments and, as remote working becomes the norm, these services become particularly invaluable. Whether it’s troubleshooting issues or problems with fibre broadband, managed IT service providers are a strategic ally in the maintenance of your distributed workforce.
Even if your network is running smoothly, you never know when you’ll encounter a crisis. During times of desperation, managed IT services providers offer a wealth of support. Many even provide break fix service level agreements to help existing IT teams solve problems outside their capabilities.
In fact, managed service models emerged from break fix subscription-based services. This managed service model allows organisations to outsource the tasks that their teams can’t handle. You have full control over the level of service required. With a simple subscription you can gain access to a comprehensive MSP who is ready to tackle any issue that may arise.
Advantages of managed IT services
24/7 support
Just as auto recovery services ensure a smooth journey in the face of vehicle issues, Managed Service Providers act as trusted digital roadside assistance. It’s always a good idea to have one on standby
Professional expertise
By employing a team of trusted professionals to handle IT consulting, you can rest assured your organisation will get through a serious data breach and discover any hidden vulnerabilities before it’s too late – not to mention, your staff will have more free time to handle other pressing tasks.
Access to the latest innovations
Smaller companies often can’t afford to dish out thousands of pounds for the latest technology, but your managed IT service provider can. By outsourcing the tech side of things stuff, businesses can reap the benefits of new developments without having to splash out on them. And you won’t even need to worry about any pending updates as your MSP does that for you.
In-house vs. a managed IT service
Larger companies may choose to have their IT service desk managed in house. se as they can train up staff to work on their systems. However, even with a specialist team on hand, many corporations choose to use MSPs to back up their data.
For other companies, it doesn’t make sense to hire an IT technician.Why pay someone to wait around until something goes wrong when you can have an MSP on standby when you need it? They won’t take up additional office space nor place a strain on your resources. Rather than hiring a full-time member to the team, organisations can hire remote professionals with diverse skill sets to fill in whenever (and whenever) it’s needed.
A dual approach is the best solution
We are often asked what’s best… an in-house IT team or a managed service provider? The truth is a dual approach works best, but we understand that it’s not always a possibility. IT teams are best equipped when they liaise with MSPs and vice versa. However, the bottom line is that your data always remains protected and your systems secure.
Our 4 main tips when looking for a managed IT service are as follows:
Be upfront about your technological capabilities: Establishing your service level agreement upfront will help determine expectations for the service you’ll receive.
Request an audit: Approach reputable MSPs and see what they think of your current system. They have plenty of experience working with companies of all sectors and sizes so they’ll know how to best boost your systems.
Assess their accreditations: An ISO accredited service provider has been audited to ensure their practices are up to scratch.
Assume your business will grow: Can this provider scale their services in line with your business growth? Are they flexible in terms of the levels of service they provide?Ask yourself these important questions.
We hope this complete guide to managed IT services has provided greater clarity on the topic. Our team is on hand to answer any further questions you may have. Drop us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
