From security services to network management, modern businesses rely on many different technologies to power their everyday operations. By outsourcing IT services to a qualified managed service provider (MSP), organizations can efficiently scale growth, enhance security, and build more efficient workflows.
Let’s explore managed IT services, discover some key benefits, and learn why this approach is becoming a popular choice for businesses of all sizes.
Understanding Managed IT Services
At its core, this management model outsources IT functions to third-party providers. While there are common services provided by an MSP, like network management or cybersecurity, in most cases, they’ll tailor these services to the needs of the specific business with the goal of improving overall IT efficiency and reliability.
As these businesses face ever-increasing task complexity, support from an MSP is critical to freeing up internal resources and cutting costs — especially in the face of rapid digital transformation.
Examples of Common Managed IT Services
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for managed IT, most organizations will need support in common areas:
- Remote Help Desk Functionality - Remote help desks offer 24/7 technical support for IT-related issues.
- Cybersecurity - Solutions such as Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools to protect against viruses, malware, and other threats.
- Cloud Services - Managed cloud services provide robust cloud computing infrastructure to consolidate computing needs while keeping data safe and secure.
- Network Management - From monitoring a network for optimal performance to troubleshooting issues, the MSP will handle it all.
- Server and Desktop Management - An MSP will keep servers and desktops updated, make sure they're running efficiently, and manage the lifecycle of hardware and software.
- Device Lifecycle Asset Management - IT equipment, like printers, can number in the thousands. MSPs often handle the acquisition, use, maintenance, and disposal of these essential assets.
Benefits of Managed IT Services
While trends in managed IT evolve and shift, the need for these essential services remains. To help you better understand the impact of working with an MSP for IT-related services, here are several standout benefits.
Cost-Effectiveness
Hiring and training internal IT staff or sourcing hardware and software independently can be costly. Managed IT services drastically reduce costs associated with salaries, training, benefits, and infrastructure expenses. Of course, these expenses are more than just monetary; they also include time spent training staff on existing business processes and systems.
With managed IT, these costs become predictable. This makes budgeting more straightforward and manageable. For example, working with an MSP for hardware-as-a-service can offer many benefits, but in this case, a reduction of capital expenditures. A fixed monthly cost for hardware maintenance and management, such as with printers or servers, offers clear financial visibility to help organizations budget more efficiently.
Access to Expert Knowledge
By partnering with the right MSP, businesses can quickly onboard a team of experts equipped with the skills, knowledge, and qualifications needed to tackle everyday IT challenges. Since this level of expertise is the main draw of working with an outsourced IT team, organizations can expect these professionals to keep them at the forefront of technology trends to ensure they leverage the latest in IT solutions.
This level of expertise can prove invaluable when evolving IT challenges develop. MSPs can offer tailored solutions that align with the unique needs of the business and expertly address common IT strategies like creating a digital transformation strategy or a mobile device management framework.
Focus on Core Business
Saving resources by switching to a managed IT service provider is more than just about cutting costs; it’s about freeing up time. MSPs can quickly and effectively take over the everyday IT workload, allowing internal teams to shift focus to core activities and growth.
These internal resources are highly valuable, and through an MSP partnership, businesses can invest them into strategic areas rather than spending them on IT maintenance. More importantly, though, it shifts the burden of IT management to a team of experts well-equipped to handle both common and complex challenges.
Enhanced Security
Last year, there were around 1,800 data breaches in the U.S. alone, affecting around 422 million individuals. When a business outsources cybersecurity efforts to an MSP, it can reduce the risk of sensitive information leaks. Creating a business network environment that’s safe and secure is no simple task, and there is no better solution than outsourcing this process, as well as system monitoring, to a third-party team of experts.
Managed IT services offer organizations comprehensive security coverage, including proactive monitoring, regular updates, and even strict regulatory compliance. This not only helps protect against threats and data breaches but also significantly reduces the risk of penalties.
Compliance and Risk Management
Operating a business involves some level of risk. Financial conditions can change, technology can quickly become outdated, regulations can shift, and market conditions can become volatile. Outsourcing IT tasks can help mitigate some of these risks. MSPs can conduct regular risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and develop effective strategies to mitigate them.
A managed IT service provider can also ensure IT practices comply with industry standards and regulations, which is essential for businesses in regulated sectors such as healthcare, finance, and education.
Ready to Partner with the Right Managed IT Service Provider?
Managed IT services have become more than just a convenience; they’re a necessity for businesses aiming to thrive in a rapidly changing digital environment. From cloud migration and system maintenance to regular risk assessments and compliance, the right managed IT service provider can help your business stay ahead of the curve — no matter what industry you’re in.
Don’t let IT challenges slow down your business’s growth and progress in 2024. By partnering with the right MSP, your organization can save time, reduce costs, and enhance its security posture.
