If you are finding it difficult to stay on top of the growing number of technical issues at your workplace it might be time to call in a managed IT solutions provider.
What is Managed IT?
Managed IT is where a third-party provider looks after all aspects of your IT, everything from your hardware (like your desktop) to overarching tech infrastructure like servers, networks and cloud backups. This is different from “break/fix” IT where you only call them when something goes wrong.
What Are The Benefits?
1 – 24/7 Network Monitoring
A managed IT services provider will monitor your network, devices and infrastructure round the clock and alert you immediately if there are any faults, irregularities or vulnerabilities.
2 – Reduced Downtime
Having reliable IT means that you significantly reduce the downtime that is caused by faulty or unreliable hardware and software. Less downtime means more productivity, more efficiency and eventually, more profit.
3 – Save Money On Staffing
Hiring full-time IT staff is expensive, especially to have just sitting around in case something goes wrong. By hiring a manged IT provider you not only save on labour costs, you also gain the IT expertise of a whole team rather than just one specialist.
4 – Efficiency
Managed IT doesn’t just keep your business running. A good managed IT provider will work with you, using their extensive knowledge of business technology to introduce new technologies and processes which can make your business more efficient and more valuable.
5 – Peace Of Mind
If you’re a business owner, you probably already know there’s nothing worse than having a constant worry that your IT is going to fail. With a managed IT solutions provider working with you, you have the confidence that your IT has been setup correctly in the first place and that it is being looked after and monitored by a highly skilled team.
6 – Keep Your IT Cost Reasonable
Fixing your PC ten times costs more than spending 10% more on a better piece of hardware in the first place. Having advice from a managed IT solutions provider helps you to make the right choice on hardware, software and cloud services purchases. Saving you money in the long run by making the best choice your first choice.
7 – Combined Services
Many managed IT solutions providers also supply other enterprise-technology services such as broadband, business mobiles, managed print services, digital marketing, disaster recovery and more. By combing these services into a single itemised bill each month, you not only cold get some great savings on your IT but also reduce complexity by having a single point of contact for all your business IT.
How Do I Start?
We hope this guide has been helpful in letting you know why many businesses choose to hire a managed IT provider. It is always a good idea to do some research and speak with other business owners from similar sized organisations to ask for their experience with their IT provider. You could also reach out using networks like LinkedIn to canvas other business owners.
