Developing technology means ever-expanding options, time-saving solutions and new cost efficiencies for your business. Unfortunately, as that technology becomes more complex, it also requires more skilled personnel to keep it in good running order. Once you become dependent on technology, you can’t afford glitches or downtime. It is critical that you have the right people maintaining your network, monitoring your systems and securing your data. For many companies, managed services offer an affordable and reliable means of keeping their systems running smoothly.
Understanding Managed Services
Managed services refers to a system by which you hire an outside IT company to handle specific aspects of your technological upkeep, such as network monitoring, maintenance, data back-up and security updates. When you rely on in-house staff or an hourly outside consultant, you generally have two options: pay high prices just in case something goes wrong, or risk extended downtime when a problem occurs.
Managed services typically operate on a subscription basis, with different tiers available to suit the needs of different businesses. This allows you to choose the protection that fits your needs and to budget for your IT expenses on a regular basis. With a managed service plan in place, you’ll also know exactly who to contact and what to do in the case of unexpected downtime or other emergencies. And, best of all, you’ll avoid many of those emergencies because your outside IT team will be monitoring your system and making necessary updates to keep things running smoothly—tasks that might be neglected or delayed if they’re handled by in-house staff with other responsibilities.
Save Time and Money with Outside Support
Subscription services are often more cost-efficient than in-house IT departments because you don’t have to pay someone to be on hand when you don’t need them. This is only the beginning of the savings you may see associated with managed services. For example, outside IT management generally means less time invested from your executives and other employees. It also means that you don’t have to spend time hiring and training new IT personnel, paying benefits, providing office space and equipment or otherwise supporting employees.
