Top Reasons to Consider Managed IT Services
One of the most consistent topics being discussed across all industries are for ways to improve IT operations through new technology, processes, and training for employees. As part of this evaluation, Keypoint Intelligence/InfoTrends encourages organizations to consider the impact of outsourcing elements of their IT infrastructure. This post provides an overview of key benefits of Managed IT services.
1. Managed IT infrastructure engagements are flexible
When an organization invests in its own IT infrastructure, it bears the responsibility for that acquisition. It the company doesn’t need the technology in several years, in some regards the purchase may be viewed as a waste. With a managed IT infrastructure engagement, however, that is not the case. As the company has outsourced technology and expertise—in the form of a service, it has spent less money on its IT infrastructure. At any point it can decide to end that engagement, minimizing unnecessary spending.
2. Managed IT infrastructure engagements are agile
Sometimes the difference between pleasing and disappointing a client is how quickly an organization can complete a project. When an organization is responsible for expanding its own IT infrastructure to accommodate a project, this endeavor could take a substantial amount of time. This is particularly the case when the entity has limited IT resources. When it outsources this type of work, however, an expansion can often occur immediately. Clients will appreciate the quick turnaround time for implementation, as well as the potential for early project completion.
3. Managed IT infrastructure engagements are affordable
As mentioned above, outsourcing IT infrastructure is less expensive than buying it oneself. The service provider can afford to make these services affordable as it is spreading the costs over many customers. Costs are lower for the various elements of the engagement, including hardware, applications, experts, maintenance, and backup and recovery services. Cost savings from managed IT services can be used to invest in other priority initiatives, such as better benefits for employees and additional software subscriptions.
4. Managed IT infrastructure engagements add security
Sometimes, organizations are wary about the idea of moving control of IT operations to a third party. But the truth is a reputable managed IT services provider is an expert that implements best practices for secure document and data handling. For instance, managed IT providers often have the ability to securely back up files in the event of a disaster. Not only that, but they can typically recover the files in a short timeframe. This type of service can benefit organizations across sectors, as all sectors handle business-critical information.
5. Managed IT infrastructure engagements enable productivity
When an organization isn’t bogged down with the details of adding or managing IT infrastructure, it can focus on the areas where it excels. This may include customer service, research, project work, communications, medicine, teaching, law, or another area altogether. A half-day that would normally be spent on IT concerns can be shifted to the core areas of focus. Nevertheless, it’s still important to have staff that are responsible for communicating with the managed IT services provider on a periodic basis.
6. Managed IT infrastructure engagements are increasingly common
The number of managed IT infrastructure providers is growing by the day, giving organizations greater access to these services. Competition breeds lower costs and better customer services, helping to ensure these engagements are worthwhile. A wider variety of technology vendors are offering these services, including businesses traditionally focused on printer and copier equipment (like our sister company Docutrend Imaging Solutions). As a result, in many cases organizations can rely on a current vendor for these additional services.
