Pros and Cons of Outsourcing IT Support to a Managed Service Provider

Technology is evolving faster than ever. This speed creates a serious challenge in keeping up to date, adapting, and staying competitive in the market. To remain relevant, robust and efficient information technology (IT) services are a given. However, staying in the know is easier said than done, which is why many businesses consider outsourcing IT support.

Are Managed IT Services Right for Your Business?

In-house IT support can be expensive, risky, and time-consuming. But, of course, outsourcing IT services has its challenges as well. Below, we unpack the pros and cons of finding an IT support provider so that you can determine if it’s right for your small business.

• Pro: Focus

  In a small business, managers often wear a variety of hats. An external IT service provider can help by taking some of the complex technology decisions off your shoulders and allowing your staff to stay focused on your core business.

• Con: Familiarity

  Your staff may be used to having the in-house guy down the hall. However, just because there is familiarity and trust in that relationship doesn’t necessarily mean that they can fill all of your business’ IT needs. An outside provider typically has a help desk, allowing for better task prioritization and resolution times. Furthermore, a professional service provider will ensure they’re up to speed on your IT infrastructure to ensure a smooth transition.

• Pro: Competitiveness

  While huge corporations have the staff and resources to stay on the cutting edge, this can be more challenging for medium and small businesses. Outsourcing managed IT services allows you to bring in a more extensive staff without the additional cost of expanding your team. This makes it easier to stay ahead of changes in your industry so that you can maintain business continuity and keep your employees working productively, securely, and compliantly.

  If you’re keeping IT services in-house, then the expense of extra time researching, developing, and implementing is a cost you’re likely passing down to your customers. Instead, you can often eliminate the downtime of training and start projects faster—all the while saving money that you can share in savings for your clients.

• Con: Coordination

  If you already have an on-site IT team, you may want to create a hybrid model that blends your internal IT department with outsourced services. While this can be effective, it requires clear leadership to avoid redundancies.

• Pro: Cost

  Outsourcing IT management is often cost-effective in several ways. First, it allows you to consolidate your fixed IT costs and only pay for the portion of resources that your business needs. Second, it saves you the operating costs of maintaining, repairing, and upgrading these systems as technology changes. Both of these are bundled into a flat monthly fee that allows you to predict expenses better.

  Additionally, it saves on the staffing costs of maintaining an in-house team. Bonus: it avoids the headache of hiring temporary IT employees to fill in competencies that your team is lacking in.

• Con: Expectations

  One caveat to note is that not all IT solutions are created equally. It’s important to understand response and resolution time expectations, speak with past and current clients, and do your research before signing a contract. Failure to properly vet your provider can create a disappointing and ineffective relationship.

• Pro: Security & Compliance

  Last but certainly not least, outsourced IT professionals are often able to help with advanced cybersecurity solutions to help keep your data safe and secure. Gone are the days of only needing a firewall, and a professional IT services provider can help you safeguard your data and ensure you’re compliant with current standards. Plus, if you experience a cyber-attack, your tech support can get you back up and running for seamless disaster recovery.

Outsourcing your IT support can help you lower costs, free up resources, stay more agile, and give you the bandwidth to focus on what you do best; running your business. If your Ohio company is interested in comprehensive IT services, consider contacting Warwick. Our scalable approach blends human and business needs to help you stay flexible, secure, and productive. Get in touch with us today to learn more!