Part 2: Outsourced IT
Outsourced IT or an “MSP”
It’s common to see the words “outsourced IT,” “remote help desk,” or even “in the cloud” and quickly become nervous. After all, isn’t it always best to have the IT guy stand behind you at your desk to fix that computer glitch?
The answer, for almost all IT issues, is a definite No! The common technology issues you run into like a broken printer, slow computer, or forgotten password can easily be taken care of by your MSP. Fixing these types of issues doesn’t require anyone on-site and can actually save you time and money by utilizing remote technicians. The exceptional MSPs will have thorough documentation of your environment allowing them to quickly identify and address your issue.
When you do need on-site support, that can usually be arranged through your MSP. The exceptional MSPs will have an engineer on-site monthly to perform their 398 point check of your environment.
The number one reason businesses utilize outsourced IT is their need for greater technical expertise and strategy. As the technology landscape broadens and the speed of innovation increases, for both good and bad, it is imperative to always partner with a firm that has the time and resources to keep you ahead of the curve. It’s a tall order to have the breadth of expertise you need to stay competitive in today’s marketplace. The many facets of information technology present an often-impossible task to organizations looking to build and manage themselves. That is where a managed service provider be a game-changer, allowing you to take advantage of economies of scale that only an MSP can provide.
THE PROS
THEY KNOW THEIR STUFF. Outsourced IT consultants work with a diverse range of companies, both in your industry and in others. They know what is going to be a good fit for your business based on their experience with other businesses in your industry. The exceptional MSPs will have insight from outside your industry can make all the difference and propel you to new heights. They will have extensive knowledge of emerging software, apps, and new technologies primed for you to capitalize on.
THEY’VE GOT RANGE. Because their team has a wide range of skill sets – from both project engineers and developers to help desk associates – they’re able to research and access various software, applications, and technology that your in-house team may not be privy to.
PRESENT STRATEGY, NOT JUST TACTICS. You get a virtual CIO (vCIO) who comes prepared with strategic goals and plans based on a reservoir of diverse experience and knowledge gained by working with different companies and industries.
NO KEY-MAN SYNDROME. With a diverse team of experts, you won’t fall victim to losing that one, indispensable expert.
THEY BOOST YOUR BOTTOM LINE. You have a team of senior-level IT experts working for your business without paying each of their salaries. With an in-house team, you’re likely paying salaries, benefits, training, device procurement, career development, and then some. With an outsourced team, you only pay for the services you want delivered and the technology you need.
THEY ACCOUNT FOR MORE THAN JUST TECHNOLOGY. These technology experts know that comprehensive IT support includes the people, the process, and the technology. The exceptional MSPs work closely with the owners and decision makers to ensure the organization is efficient, productive, and growing because of their technology, not despite it.
THE CONS
YOU HAVE FEARS. Outsourced IT providers will have access to integral systems and data for running your business. To work well together you must have a lot of trust that they will be supporting you in good faith. Another common fear is the technology expense and if the ROI will match. The exceptional MSPs will present a map of your current infrastructure, systems, hardware, and software, and contrast that with the cost savings of moving to a modern IT approach.
YOU HAVE DOUBTS. You may doubt the outsourced team’s ability to provide quick maintenance turnaround and responses when they are not on site. It’s common to have fears about communication that could cost you time, money, and stress. Clear communication is essential in any relationship, especially when so much is on the line. Exceptional MSPs have a client communication process dialed-in for each scenario.
Check back for tomorrow’s post, where we look at the combination of two services. If you’d like to chat about our solutions as an MSP, get in touch!