The break/fix IT service model refers to providing and charging for tech support services on an as-needed basis, rather than paying a monthly fee for ongoing maintenance. However, break/fix is now considered a legacy service model on a steady decline. This is because organizations are increasingly opting to partner with managed IT services providers (MSPs) for a more consistent, proactive approach to their IT support and security. MSPs are third-party companies that supply a business with all the critical IT services they need on a regular basis, typically for a fixed monthly fee.
Below, we break down the glaring flaws of break/fix IT support services and why MSPs are becoming a more advantageous choice for your business.
The pitfalls of break/fix IT support services
Break/fix IT support services have a lot of drawbacks that make them unappealing for businesses.
They’re a reactive approach to IT maintenance
Relying on the break/fix service model often allows tech issues to fester and escalate. This typically leads to greater system damages, leading to longer (and thus, costlier) downtimes.
Businesses will often find themselves putting out fires, dealing with critical issues as they arise, rather than implementing preventive measures to ensure smooth operations. The reactive nature of break/fix services can thus hinder your company’s long-term productivity and stability.
No guaranteed service times
Break/fix services additionally offer little certainty on response and repair times, leaving your business in the dark whenever major IT issues occur. To ensure productivity and maintain customer trust, it is crucial for businesses to address these problems promptly and within well-defined, acceptable time frames.
Unfortunately, the absence of service level agreements (SLAs) in this service model means
there is no assurance of timely assistance, leaving your company vulnerable to extended periods of technology disruptions and potential business losses.
Costlier IT support
Relying on break/fix IT support can lead to costlier outcomes for your business. Without a clear forecast or overview of your maintenance spend, this pay-as-you-go approach could leave you with less control over your overall IT budget. The individual costs can add up quickly over time, and the reactive nature of these services leave you with longer downtimes on top of the greater costs.
Additionally, break/fix service providers have little incentive to actually optimize your IT infrastructure for the long term, as doing so would reduce their business opportunities. You’re unlikely to find the best, sustainable solutions to fully support your organization moving forward.
Break/fix IT support services vs. MSPs
In contrast to break/fix IT support services, MSPs offer far more benefits to businesses.
Proactive, consistent support and maintenance
Opting for an MSP can help you address potential issues in your IT infrastructure before they escalate into larger operational problems. Unlike break/fix support, MSPs take a proactive approach by monitoring systems, identifying potential issues, and implementing preventive measures. This ensures your business experiences fewer disruptions, increased system stability, and improved overall performance in the long term.
With the growing complexity of tech infrastructures and rising rates of cybercrime, the skills to regularly optimize, secure, and improve one’s IT environment are more sought after than ever. Statistics show that the global market size of MSPs are expected to be worth $834.7 billion by 2032, nearly triple the amount of $278.9 billion in 2022.
A service provider who understands your business needs
Additionally, it is within an MSP’s interest to sustain the quality and reliability of your IT infrastructure and to ensure their services align with your business needs and long-term goals. They may work with you in designing an effective digital transformation strategy to help achieve a more innovative, tech-driven workplace.
As such, you can rest assured that your MSP provides your business with the best tech solutions available. These professionals can also provide ongoing guidance in improving or optimizing your current infrastructure, such as pinpointing areas for automation or recommending more cost-effective software.
Greater service clarity
Finally, working with an MSP can offer you greater financial clarity. These providers come with SLAs that specify what their client can expect from their services, including any regular costs involved. They also typically offer guaranteed service timeframes, with inclusive rates specified in fixed-price contracts. This leaves room for little financial surprises and allows you to budget for your IT expenditures with greater consistency.
The myriad benefits that MSPs provide make them reliable IT partners for any growing business. Get in touch with our experts today to learn more about our fixed-fee managed IT services and how they could serve your company needs. Take that step toward a more innovative, productive, and competitive workplace in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.
