What Is a Managed IT Service Provider?
Technology has become an integral part of doing business. Almost every company, whether it’s a factory or a brick and mortar store, relies on computers to process orders, advertise products and services, and communicate with customers. As a result, it’s critical that your business has an outstanding IT infrastructure.
But, here’s the problem: establishing an efficient IT system doesn’t come cheap. Sooner rather than later, small businesses realize that their initial IT support investment can’t handle their growth. So, what can you do to improve operations without breaking the bank? That’s easy: you hire a managed service IT Consultant
What’s a Managed Service Provider?
A managed service provider, or MSP, is a third-party company that assumes ongoing responsibility for managing, monitoring, and improving operations for your IT infrastructure, under a fixed price. Basic services often include patch management, server security, alerts, data backup and recovery, routine infrastructure management, and so on.
In other words, a managed service provider acts as your IT department. If something IT-related breaks, they help you fix it. If you want to upgrade software, are interested in virtualization, or need an app, they’ve got your back. Most managed service providers act as your business partners to help you increase the efficiency of your operations, and achieve your goals.
What Happens When You Hire a MSP?
Imagine that you are in need of a managed service partner, and are looking for an IT Consultant in [local_1]. After careful consideration, you decide on a partner. When engaging with them, you don’t cede overall managerial control and responsibility for the operations that you outsource. You are still in control and, thus, accountable. However, you can choose which services you want to be managed by an expert IT Consultant, and which ones you want to keep in-house.
Should You Work with a Managed Service IT Consultant?
With such a wide spectrum of IT services out there, it can be hard to determine if a managed service provider is what you need. To help make this decision easier, we’ve put together a short list of key indicators reflecting that your business could benefit from outsourcing your IT efforts to a MSP.
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- You Don’t Have a Dedicated IT Department
Many small businesses are overwhelmed by their IT needs but don’t have the money to implement a fully-operational department. Outsourcing your IT needs to a managed service provider is the best way to ensure you remain competitive.
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- It’s Hard to Keep It Costs Under Control
The cost of technology is unpredictable. Some months you have to buy new computers while other you have to repair your servers. With a managed IT service partner, you only pay a fixed monthly fee, which makes it easier to keep your budget under control.
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- You Can’t Keep Up with Everyday Tasks
Are your systems up to date? Is your IT team on top of your software licensing? Even a seasoned IT Consultant can get overwhelmed by the seemingly endless list of tasks without the help of the right team. A managed service provider can ensure that work isn’t piling up and that your business keeps pace with technology changes.
If you are struggling with technology in your business, then maybe it’s time to consider partnering up with a managed service provider.
