Maintaining a smooth & secure IT support infrastructure is vital in today’s technologically driven business landscape. For many businesses, including leading Managed IT Service Providers like Sea Change Systems, the solution lies in outsourced IT. We will explore the benefits & implications of outsourcing IT services for businesses across the US, with specific examples from Texas, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire & beyond.
Understanding Outsourced IT Services
Outsourced IT services involve entrusting your company’s technological needs to a third-party expert or a Managed Service Provider (MSP). The MSP can offer various services, from sporadic, on-demand support to comprehensive, monthly fee-based service contracts.
Fully Outsourced IT Vs. Co-Managed IT
These are the two primary models of outsourced IT. Fully outsourced IT involves relinquishing all IT functions to an MSP, from troubleshooting to security monitoring, backups, updates, & strategic consultations.
On the other hand, co-managed IT is a hybrid model where a company outsources only specific IT tasks that its internal team can’t manage due to time constraints or skill gaps.
Evaluating IT Support Options
Keeping Your IT Team In-House
An in-house IT department ensures immediate access to IT support during office hours. However, the cost of maintaining such a team can be significant, particularly for smaller businesses. An in-house team also comes with challenges, such as staffing limitations, potential skill gaps & the inability to provide round-the-clock support.
Outsourcing Your Entire IT Department
Outsourcing IT to an MSP can offer several advantages. You’ll gain access to a team of experts who provide 24/7 support, mitigating downtime risks. An MSP can handle common issues remotely, speeding up resolution times. Plus, you’ll get the expertise you need to stay competitive without the high cost of building & managing an internal IT team.
Opting For Co-Managed IT
Co-managed IT is the best of both worlds, combining an internal IT manager with an outsourced IT service provider. It frees up your in-house team to focus on strategic initiatives while day-to-day operations are handled by the MSP. This model can lead to increased productivity & a successful IT department for businesses of any size.
Costs Associated With Different IT Support Options
In-House IT Team
Small-to-medium businesses may need a Tier 1 help desk technician & an IT manager. Considering average salaries, the cost for a team of two can range from $150,000* to $200,000* per year, excluding overheads like PTO & insurance. As the business grows, the expenses increase.
Outsourced IT Department
Costs for outsourced IT services vary based on the services you need. In many cases, however, they can be more cost-effective than maintaining an in-house team, particularly for small-to-midsize businesses.
Co-Managed IT
While it provides a balanced approach, maintaining an internal IT team alongside outsourced support can be too costly for smaller businesses.
The Verdict: Maximizing The Value Of Outsourced IT
The right IT service model depends on your business size, needs & budget. Regardless of your chosen model, aligning with a reputable Managed IT Services provider like Sea Change Systems can help ensure your IT strategy is robust, secure & poised for future growth. Contact or visit us today.
*Please note that the provided numbers are approximations and may fluctuate based on various factors.
