Top 15 Benefits of Using a Managed Service Provider

For businesses, the information technology (IT) department forms the most critical part. This is because all data in the business go through IT. Also, the IT system is always a prime target for hackers, which shows how important it is. Managing IT isn’t as simple as it may sound. For your business to get the best of it, it needs the right tools, skills and strategies.

Therefore, most businesses often resort to managed service providers (MSP). This is where you let a third-party agency or IT firm manage your IT needs such as cloud computing, workflow and cybersecurity, among others. The company has access to better infrastructure and professional skills to ensure better services. This makes taking this option beneficial in the following ways:

1. Avoid downtime

A reliable service provider will constantly monitor your system around the clock to ensure that they identify and correct any problem before these become major. This helps reduce downtime in business, hence cutting costs and making up for unproductive hours. (1)

2. Get access to expert help

An MSP will always have employees who have specialised in specific aspects of IT. Therefore, when you get these services, you are sure of getting experts who’ll give comprehensive coverage to your needs. (2)

3. Get infrastructure in one place

The MSP will provide software, servers and workstation tools, and you only have to purchase their plan to use it. This means you get access to the infrastructure you need in one place instead of incurring more costs in purchasing and installing in-house equipment. (2)

4. Give your team more time

Working with an MSP means taking away the strenuous work from your IT team. Therefore, they can have more time to focus on innovations and other projects that will drive the business forward. (1)

5. It helps your business stay compliant

Data privacy compliance is crucial to businesses but very challenging to adhere to. However, the experts can ensure that your system adheres to the required compliance standards when using managed services. (3)

6. Reduce cash flow problems

Most MSPs have steady monthly or yearly payment plans that you’ll be aware of before buying a plan. Therefore, you’ll avoid cash flow problems, as you know what budget you have to work with. (3)

7. Control costs through scalability

Managed services give you the ability to scale up during high seasons and scale down during low seasons. Therefore, you have better control of costs, as you only pay more when the demand is high. (3)

8. Reduce labour costs

Recruiting and training IT experts is time-consuming and costs a lot. By outsourcing to managed service providers, you ensure that you only hire the talent that you need the most. This helps you cut costs or redirect them elsewhere. (4)

9. Deploy new technology quickly

Deploying new technology to the system requires infrastructure and skills that most in-house IT systems lack. Therefore, by outsourcing to MSP, they’ll deploy any new technology easily as they have the resources, and you can start using it immediately. (4)

10. Reduce risks

Because technology changes rapidly, businesses always face some risks, especially with their data. Outsourcing your system to experts help mitigate such data loss risks and keep your business running. (4)

11. Get a centralised system for remote working

An MSP allows you to centralise all your data and applications. This makes it easy to use, share and access by your team. Also, it provides them with a more secure access point regardless of where they are working from. (5)

12. 24-hour support

MSPs work around the clock, which means they can support you when you need it, even at midnight. For example, if you’re working on a project and the server crashes, the MSP team can fix it at any time. In contrast, your in-house team won’t be there to help you every time. (5)

13. Drives revenue

The productivity of your employees depends on how well your system is managed. By outsourcing your system to an MSP, you ensure that it’s at its optimal level and supports your business and employees well. Therefore, your business keeps on operating, which drives more revenue. (5)

14. Be future-proof with cutting-edge technology

As technology changes, MSPs work on new ways to adapt, earn and use it to improve their systems. Therefore, you benefit from their investment into cutting-edge technology, and you won’t even have to pay much for this investment. Also, you can be sure you won’t miss out on any new development as they’ll provide the expertise, infrastructure and training your company needs. (3)

15. Level the playing field

A decent IT infrastructure requires a lot of money. Small businesses may not afford it all and fall short of the big companies. But by outsourcing, small- to medium-sized businesses can act big as they have access to new and more advanced technology as the big companies. This helps them remain competitive. (4)

Getting managed service providers in your business has several advantages. From getting experts handling your system to levelling the playing field, it’s an opportunity you can’t let pass. Small businesses are the most significant beneficiary because they get access to technology that would’ve otherwise been costly. As a small business owner, you won’t want to lag behind the competition.

References

1. “9 top benefits of a Managed Services Provider (MSP)”, Source: https://www.columbusglobal.com/en-gb/blog/top-benefits-of-a-managed-services-provider
2. “Pros and Cons of an IT Managed Service Provider for a Small Business”, Source: https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/5115-managed-services.html
3. “10 Benefits of Using Managed IT Services for Your Business”, Source: https://www.americanexpress.com/en-ca/business/trends-and-insights/articles/10-benefits-of-using-managed-it-services-for-your-business/
4. “The Top 10 Benefits of Outsourcing IT through Managed Services”, Source: https://www.essent.com/News/Blog/The-Top-10-Benefits-of-Outsourcing-IT-through-Managed-Services-284-24.htm
5. “Small Guide on Financial Benefits of Managed Service Providers”, Source: https://www.techieapps.com/financial-benefits-of-managed-service-providers/