Understanding When to Outsource Your IT Services

If your organization has gotten by with an in-house team that handles your information technology, you might think you’re getting the best deal. But contrary to popular belief, investing in outsourced IT support is the best way to guarantee a structured network while cutting costs.

But how do you know when it’s time to take the plunge? Read this guide to understand:

• What IT infrastructure outsourcing is, and how it can help your business
• Why more businesses are relying on outsourced IT support
• When you should elect for outsourced IT or insourced services
• Qualities to seek in a managed IT service

What is Outsourced IT Support?

Outsourced IT support describes a technical service administered through a third-party company like a managed service provider (MSP). Typically, these providers employ a team of experts with specialized skills to cover every corner of the client’s network infrastructure. External support teams offer many services, like:

• Network Security Management
• Disaster Recovery
• Troubleshooting Support
• Network Maintenance
• Hardware and Software Installations
• Cloud Computing

The Benefits of Outsourcing Your IT Services

Companies that have decided to outsource their IT services are seeing the immense benefits of having a secure network with the latest technology. Some of the most common perks are:

• Increased Scalability – Companies that outsource gain access to a large pool of scalable resources that can be adjusted according to their needs.
• Saved Time – Dealing with multiple network issues can be incredibly time-consuming. An externally-hired IT support team can help businesses save time and focus on their core operations.
• Cost Savings – Under a traditional IT model, purchasing products from multiple vendors, disaster recovery, and scheduling regular network maintenance are expenses that can quickly add up. Businesses can use outsourced IT services to reap the benefits of reduced costs and avoid investing in additional resources.
• 24/7 Support – Managed service providers are capable of nonstop data monitoring and support services. If your systems happen to stop working even after office hours, their instant response times will get your network back up and running and keep your operations largely unaffected.
• Expert Opinion – Externally hired teams are well-versed in managing various business networks. IT providers have the knowledge and resources to provide custom-fit solutions regardless of size, industry, or budget.
• Compliance – An outsourced team will be familiar with the latest regulations and can implement them quickly and efficiently. This helps ensure that businesses meet all of their legal requirements and avoid lawsuits and fines.

Understanding the Rise in Outsourced IT Support

As we advance in digital technology, more business leaders are looking for ways to minimize operating costs while benefiting from the latest technology. Many are realizing that achieving bottom-line profits and efficiently completing core business operations isn’t as easy without additional resources. And for smaller and mid-sized businesses especially, having the support of a robust IT servicer can make all the difference in keeping the company afloat.

Outsourced IT Services or Insourced Services?

When considering whether to insource or outsource their IT services, business leaders should look at their day-to-day operations and assess their most significant needs to determine the best approach.

Insourced Services

Depending on the need, some IT operations are best suited for an internally-hired team over an outsourced vendor. Smaller tasks like installing software, setting up servers, and configuring systems may not be as complicated and could be more affordable than an outsourced task if done sparingly.

Outsourced Services

Alternatively, network tasks that require more expertise and specialized knowledge need to be outsourced. Ensure your outsourcing work is done by qualified professionals who are well-versed in topics like cybersecurity, help desk support, and compliance oversight. Plus, considering the rise in cybercriminal activity, having an outsourced provider is great for warding off attacks and saving businesses from the fallout of disaster recovery.

What to Look for in a Managed IT Service Provider

A managed IT Service provider should have the following essential qualities:

• Transparency – Any potential MSP should be willing to establish clear lines of communication describing their services. Additionally, they should be ready to draft a contract with you that ensures protection for both parties.
• Experience – Your provider should have lots of experience across various industries with proven results.
• Credibility – As you research managed IT providers, look for accolades and client testimonials that lend credibility to the business.
• Security – How up-to-date is your provider with industry-sanctioned security protocols? Ensure they’re doing everything they can to protect your data center.
• Excellent Customer Service – When you have an issue, you need to be able to contact someone quickly so the problem can be resolved promptly.

Choose Onward Technology for Your Network Infrastructure Managed Services

Onward Technology is a leading provider of managed IT services and consulting to multiple Utah businesses and beyond. We offer comprehensive solutions that cover the following:

• Large Event Wi-Fi
• Network Design
• Security
• Wi-Fi Analytics
• 24/7 Support
• Hardware/Software
• Education Services
• Ethernet Cabling

Our team of highly trained professionals has the experience and expertise necessary to ensure that your business runs smoothly, no matter the size or complexity of your operation.

When potential clients consider outsourcing their IT services, they hope a credible provider they trust will provide the highest quality customer service. That’s why our core focus is delivering a people-first experience where results matter. Our clients are part of our team, and we want them to feel the same way.