Digital transformation and modernization are considered to be vital factors in the growth and survival of a business. But with it comes ongoing IT operations and systems that require regular management, and they are not easy tasks that just any person can do.
IT teams have to maintain and run various equipment, keep cybersecurity measures in place, host and monitor several applications, and more. The problem is that not every company has the resources to manage those tasks in-house effectively. Here’s where utilizing a third-party and outsourcing IT services can come in to save the day.
What does managed IT services mean?
A managed IT service is an IT system or operation provided to a vendor by a third-party contractor, known as a Managed Service Provider or MSP. If a business can't support an in-house IT department or address the demand for 24/7 IT duties, they can opt for managed IT services instead.
These outsourced IT services and support are designed to help companies around the clock and ensure every operation is running smoothly. They cover IT tasks, including help desk, user management, account management, monitoring, maintenance, proactive support, security and compliance, backups and disaster recovery, documentation, and reporting.
What is the importance of managed IT services?
You can think of managed IT services as a pressure valve that releases all the worry and hassle out of IT. Instead of completing mundane IT tasks and day-to-day IT maintenance, companies can focus their time and budget on proactive and revenue-generating solutions.
Unlike an in-house IT team, a managed IT service provider is not tied to your working schedule. That means they have better management of uptime and can perform system updates and maintenance even during office hours. While you’re sleeping, you can rest easy that your company is in safe and capable hands.
These IT service providers will not only help get the issues resolved quickly. Working with a managed IT service contractor also gives you access to the best technology and latest trends in the industry that will maximize business productivity and increase profit. They can act as consultants who can provide guidance and recommendations to optimize your company’s performance and infrastructure.
How much do managed IT services cost?
If you’re planning on working with a managed IT services Bakersfield contractor, it’s best to figure out an estimated cost. One thing that’s good about these IT services is that it’s cheaper than hiring a full-time IT department. Managed IT service providers run on a subscription-based or monthly pricing model.
The cost of your managed IT services depends on several factors, such as the level of involvement, the complexity of infrastructure, and the type of services provided. For example, a managed IT service that only involves monitoring tasks will be much cheaper than a package that includes 24/7 IT support, planning, strategy, and design services. But with that said, you can expect pricing plans to run from $75 to $250 per month.
When do you need to hire a managed IT services provider?
You’re probably wondering whether your business needs a managed IT service provider. To help you in your decision-making, here are a few things to consider:
- Size of company – If your company is too small to hire an in-house IT team or personnel but has too many systems to manage on your own, consider working with a managed IT service provider.
- Internal capacity – If your company doesn’t have the internal capacity to address IT duties, you should consider hiring an MSP. Additionally, if the operation and maintenance are taking your in-house IT department's focus away from more important tasks, it’s best to consolidate with an MSP.
Takeaway
Outsourcing IT operations and systems with a managed IT service provider is beneficial to many businesses. Performing and monitoring IT duties 24/7 is no simple feat and is often difficult for an in-house team. But with the right MSP, you can prevent your internal team from becoming overburdened by day-to-day operations, thereby allowing them to focus on more vital and lucrative tasks. This will ensure your organization’s business continues to operate smoothly and also maximize its full potential.
