How a Managed Services Provider can help your business grow
As a small or medium-sized business (SMB), you want to see your business grow in a sustainable and profitable way. The right IT support team can help your business flourish, but with so many options available, how do you choose the right IT provider for your company’s needs? Should you employ in-house IT support, or should you hire the help of a Managed Services Provider?
To help you decide, here’s why we feel Managed Service Providers win out over in-house IT.
What is a Managed Services Provider?
Managed Services Providers, or MSPs, offer businesses outsourced IT services, including maintenance and support, in technology areas such as:
- Cybersecurity
- Administration
- Cloud services
- Backup and other data services
Managed IT services are offered on a subscription model, meaning you’re not committed to a long-term contract, and you can review your subscription at any time. This flexibility makes Managed Services Providers a financially sensible option for SMBs who may not know their long-term needs or budget availability.
Why choose a Managed Services Provider over in-house IT
There are many reasons why you should opt for Managed Services Providers if you’re an SMB, but here are the top 6 most convincing reasons.
1. Experience
MSPs generally have specialist knowledge of various IT services, which is useful because there’s no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” approach to IT. Good MSPs can deliver bespoke IT strategies for your specific business needs, and they have the experience to execute them. Effective and experienced MSPs oversee your IT so you can focus on the important job of running your business.
2. Budget
Since MSPs operate on a subscription model, SMBs pay flat monthly fees for their help. This predictable spend makes it easier for SMBs to keep IT running smoothly and manage expenses without worrying about numerous IT vendors, overtime charges and covering unexpected network problems.
3. Resources
An MSP frees your in-house team from handling technology issues so they can focus on business matters. MSPs offer you an expert team dedicated to monitoring your infrastructure, and you can benefit from their access to cutting-edge technology. Good MSPs provide training and support, which in-house IT staff don’t often have the time or experience to provide.
4. Availability
Your IT needs don’t sleep. IT emergencies can occur at any time, and you need personnel who can respond whenever you need them. Because MSPs are dedicated to your network needs, good providers make themselves available on your schedule. And, because you’re on a subscription model, there are no surprise expenses to worry about.
5. Relationships
MSPs aren’t simply vendors who work for you. The right MSP forms a partnership with you. They become an extension of your own team. They work with you to devise effective solutions and proactively offer you support that meets your goals. Because they are your business partner, they should always be on hand for any major changes or emergencies.
Additionally, MSPs already have relationships with third-party software, service and hardware providers. Your MSP will find the right technical solution for your network computing needs.
6. Evolution
Your technology needs change as your business grows. Whether you need new cloud storage solutions, cybersecurity programs, or simply extra training, your MSP can devise the right strategy for you. What’s more, they can advise you of new and different options, such as more effective hosting models and network communication systems.
Summary
While having in-house IT staff offers specific benefits, Managed Services Providers have the depth of resources, experience, and capabilities to help your business grow. With the help of a Managed Services Provider, you can boost your productivity, free up resources to run your business, and save money – all of which can improve your bottom line.
