Today, a well-functioning IT infrastructure is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Regardless of size, businesses depend on technology for various functions, from communications and data storage to customer service and sales. In fact, 95% of US small businesses employ at least one technology platform, and 29.7% of business done in the United States is conducted online. However, it can be challenging to maintain a robust IT infrastructure, especially for companies with limited resources.
Traditionally, businesses have relied on the break/fix IT support model, wherein IT professionals are summoned to address issues as they surface. For instance, if a computer suddenly crashes, a technician would be called in to diagnose and fix the issue, and get the device back up and running.
But although the break/fix model resolves immediate concerns, its reactive nature often leads to significant costs and disruptions. It also concentrates solely on issue resolution and does not prevent IT issues from recurring. Thankfully, there’s a proactive approach to IT infrastructure management that businesses can turn to: managed IT services.
What is managed IT services?
Managed IT services entail a continuous service agreement with a managed IT services provider (MSP). The MSP oversees a business’s IT infrastructure, encompassing maintenance, monitoring, and troubleshooting. It’s like having a dedicated IT team overseeing your systems without the overhead expenses of hiring and managing in-house personnel.
The benefits of proactive IT management
Here's how a proactive IT strategy with managed services can benefit your business:
- Reduced downtime: Downtime is often a result of inefficient or faulty systems. To prevent downtime, MSPs employ proactive monitoring tools that identify potential issues before these turn into major problems. They also perform regular system updates, patch management, and data backups, contributing to a more stable and reliable IT environment.
- Enhanced security: Cybersecurity threats evolve constantly, and staying ahead of the curve requires expertise coupled with vigilance. MSPs have both. They can strategically deploy resources to implement tried-and-tested security measures, helping to significantly reduce the risk of data breaches.
- Improved efficiency: By taking care of routine IT tasks such as maintenance and updates, MSPs free up your internal staff to focus on more strategic initiatives that can help grow your business.
- Cost savings: MSPs typically charge a flat monthly fee for all their comprehensive services, which is considerably more affordable than hiring and maintaining a full-time IT team. What’s more, MSPs can save you money in the long run by preventing expensive reactive repairs and downtime.
- Better scalability: When your business expands, your IT needs evolve, too. A good MSP can scale its services to meet your changing requirements, providing access to a wide range of IT skills and expertise that your in-house staff may lack.
Take the next step
Transitioning from a break/fix approach to a proactive IT strategy can be a game-changer for your business. Get started by:
- Identifying your IT needs: Evaluating your current IT infrastructure and identifying your needs and pain points can help you decide on which specific services you need from an MSP.
- Researching prospective MSPs: Look for reputable MSPs with a proven track record of success and specialization in your industry.
- Asking the right questions: Book a consultation with potential MSPs and ask about their service offerings, pricing structure, and customer support policies.
Investing in a proactive IT strategy with an MSP means your IT infrastructure is in good hands. So if you want to focus on growing your business while experts take care of your technology, consider partnering with USWired. We are the trusted IT partners of businesses in San Jose, the Greater Bay Area, Orange County, San Diego, Atlanta, and Chicago. Contact us today.
