Modern businesses must efficiently manage a variety of moving parts in order to stay competitive. This is especially true for small businesses, which often have limited resources. Information technology (IT) is one area that can make or break a business. IT can be a major expense, and if it’s not managed properly, it can cause big problems.
There are two main ways to outsource IT: break fix services and managed services. Break fix services are the traditional way of outsourcing IT. You pay for each service separately, and you only call the IT company when something breaks. Managed services, on the other hand, are a more proactive way of managing IT. With managed services, you pay a monthly fee for comprehensive IT support.
So, which is the best option for your business?
It depends on a number of factors. Here’s a look at some of the key considerations:
Cost
The cost of break fix services can vary widely, depending on the type of problem and the company you use. With managed services, you pay a flat monthly fee, which makes budgeting easier. In general, managed services are more expensive up front, but they can save you money in the long run by preventing problems before they happen.
Convenience
With break fix services, you have to remember to call the IT company whenever something goes wrong. This can be a hassle, especially if you’re not familiar with technical terms. With managed services, the information technology company proactively monitors your systems and takes care of problems before they cause downtime. This can save you a lot of time and hassle.
Flexibility
With break fix services, you’re limited to the services that the IT company offers. If you have unique needs, you might have to find another company that specializes in that area. With managed services, you can customize the service package to meet your specific needs. This gives you more flexibility and ensures that you’re getting exactly what you need.
Scalability
If your business grows, your IT needs will change. With break fix services, you’ll need to find a new IT company that can handle your increased volume of work. With managed services, you can simply scale up your service package to meet your new needs. This is a much more convenient and cost-effective way to handle growth.
Expertise
When you outsource IT, you’re trusting the company with a critical part of your business. Make sure you choose a company that has the expertise and experience to meet your needs. Ask for references and check out the company’s website to learn more about their services.
Service Level Agreement
When you outsource information technology, you should have a service level agreement (SLA) in place. This document outlines the services that the company will provide and sets expectations for response times and uptime. Make sure you understand the SLA before you sign on the dotted line.
Outsourcing IT can save your business time and money. But which option is best for your business? It depends on your specific needs. Consider the factors above to make the best decision for your company.