As an organization, you may be feeling the crunch from an abundance of constant pressure to release more value for less money. There’s also a lot of confusion about what managed IT services actually mean and how they can benefit your organization. So before you sign up for new services or sign someone up who isn’t set up properly, it may be worth doing your research to make sure you are getting what you need and nothing more. A managed service relationship is a business arrangement that stipulates that the company providing IT support will manage the technology used by an organization and make sure that resources are used efficiently. The relationship between the company providing managed IT services and their clients often entails advising on choosing technology, as well as installation, setup, maintenance, repairs, and even upgrades. Read More
What are managed IT services?
Managed IT Services are typically defined as services that involve managing a company’s existing technology assets. These may include traditional IT such as server and network maintenance, mobile device support, and data center operations. Some managed services may include managed technology coverage, such as managed IT services that include hardware and software protection.
Managed Services
Managed services are services that involve managing a team of technicians and engineers who are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and support of technology in an organization. Managed services may be delivered by a third-party contractor or operated internally, although the majority of companies using managed services use a third-party model.
Service Level Agreements
A service level agreement (SLA) is an agreement between a provider of managed IT services and an organization about the level of service the company will provide for the organization’s technology assets. The level of service is usually agreed to be sufficient, but not beyond expectations. In many cases, SLAs are written in advance and include a “redo” option if the level of service is not adequate.
Why Choose Managed Services?
There are a few factors that may play into the decision to choose managed services, although the primary reason is likely less complexity for the organization. As an organization works to release more value for less money, you may be looking for less risk and more predictability with your IT investments. Additionally, there is less chance of failure with managed services as the providers are often well-versed in managing your specific circumstances and equipment.
Pros of Managed Services
More Control – Managed services can offer a lot of control for the organization due to their access control and key management features. Controlling access to equipment, software, and data is a huge benefit and can make the difference between a business being successful and closing. Better Understanding of IT Requirements – Managed services providers understand your organization and its culture better than the average IT professional, which can make for a better understanding of how technology is used in your business. This can help avoid issues with equipment, software, and data that are not properly set up or otherwise available. Predictability – With managed services, you can determine with more confidence when IT services will be needed and what level of service will be required. With managed IT services, you may even be able to predict the mood of your tech support staff! Effective Communication – The ability to communicate effectively with support staff is a huge benefit of managed services. Managed services can help reduce the communication barrier between managers and engineers, which can improve overall productivity.
Cons of Managed Services
Rising Price Tag – While managed services may be less expensive than an on-site deployment, they come with a price. The price of managed services will include everything needed to operate the system, including hardware, software, maintenance contracts, and support. That’s a lot of cost for an organization to absorb. Lack of Control – As with any business relationship, there will be times when you and your managed services provider will not be in sync on key issues. Where there is a lack of alignment between you two, communication will suffer. This can lead to frustration and a frustration-induced breakdown in the relationship. Limited Control over Technology – As with any business relationship, you will have limited control over equipment, software, and data. Where this becomes an issue is when your business grows and you decide to use a service provider with whom you have no prior contact.
Wrapping up
Managed IT services are a business arrangement that stipulates that the company providing IT support will manage the technology used by an organization and make sure that resources are used efficiently. In some cases, the relationship also entails giving advice on choosing technology, as well as installation, setup, maintenance, repairs, and even upgrades. Before you choose a managed services provider, it’s worth doing your own research to make sure you are getting what you need and nothing more.
