When you buy a car, you’re not just investing in a means to get from point A to B. You’re signing up for tune-ups, oil changes, tire rotations, and those unexpected repairs that pop up along the way. That’s because a car is a complex machine that needs regular maintenance to perform at its best.
Similarly, your business’s IT infrastructure is a complex system, humming along behind the scenes, powering your day-to-day operations. But it needs regular check-ups, maintenance, and sometimes, emergency fixes. This is what managed services can help with.
What are managed IT services? These services are like having a team of top-tier mechanics, constantly tuning up your digital engine, ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently. “It’s about not just having the tools, but also having a dedicated team to manage them,” says Jason Cary, Vice President of Sales.
In this blog, we’ll offer insights on:
- Managed IT services definition
- How managed services work
- What is the IT managed service provider’s role?
- And more
Defining the Concept of Managed IT Services: What Are They?
Managed IT services by definition are the practice of outsourcing your company’s IT computer network support and management to improve business operations. These services include things like:
- Managed security services
- Data backup and disaster recovery
- System monitoring and management
- Software and hardware upgrades
- Help desk support
- Cloud computing
- IT consulting
- Among others
So what is the IT managed service provider’s role? Rather than focusing heavily on the managed IT definition, think of these services simply as an all-inclusive IT support package, tailored to your business needs. By leveraging managed IT services, you can offload your IT operations to a service provider, known in tech parlance as a Managed Services Provider (MSP).
These MSPs are responsible for the entirety or portions of your business’s IT systems, as agreed upon in a Service Level Agreement (SLA). It’s a strategic method for improving operations and cutting expenses, freeing up your team to focus on your company’s core competencies and strategic initiatives, instead of getting bogged down by IT issues.
How Managed Services Work
What are managed IT services’ structure of operations? Managed services work on a partnership basis between your business and a Managed Services Provider (MSP).
Here’s how managed services work typically:
- Assessment: Initially, the MSP conducts an in-depth assessment of your existing IT infrastructure, identifying its strengths, weaknesses, and areas that need improvement.
- Service Agreement: Based on the assessment, you and the MSP draft a Service Level Agreement (SLA). This document outlines the services to be provided, the performance standards expected, and how issues will be resolved.
- Deployment: Once the agreement is in place, the MSP begins implementing its services. This can range from setting up hardware and software, to configuring networks, to establishing security protocols, and more.
Benefit from 38+ Years of IT Experience in Your Corner
- Regular Monitoring and Management: The MSP constantly monitors your IT systems to prevent or address problems. This often includes 24/7 monitoring of your networks, regular system updates, data backup and recovery, cybersecurity measures, and troubleshooting any IT issues that arise.
- Reporting and Communication: The MSP provides regular reports on your IT system’s performance, keeping you informed about its status. Also, open communication channels are maintained for any queries or issues you may have.
So many businesses have been eager to adapt to managed services models in recent years that the market is expected to soar by USD 834.7 Billion with 11.9% CAGR by 2032.
Image Credit: Market.US
Let’s take a closer look at what managed services can do for your business in terms of benefits.
What Managed Services Can Offer: The Benefits
Over 92% of G2000 organizations are utilizing managed IT services today Here’s why:.
- Expertise at Your Disposal: Gain access to a team of IT experts with a broad range of skills and up-to-date knowledge of the latest technologies, without the cost of hiring full-time employees.
- Cost Predictability: Swap fluctuating IT costs for a consistent, regular fee, making budgeting more manageable.
- Proactive Monitoring and Maintenance: Benefit from 24/7 monitoring of your IT systems, detecting and resolving potential issues before they disrupt your business.
- Increased Operational Efficiency: Free your internal staff from dealing with IT issues, allowing them to focus on strategic tasks that enhance business growth.
- Enhanced Security: Benefit from robust cybersecurity measures that protect your business from evolving cyber threats.
- Scalability: Managed IT services can grow with your business, providing more resources as needed.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure your IT systems comply with industry regulations, reducing risk of non-compliance penalties.
Why Entrust Your IT Operations to FTI Services?
In a world where technology permeates every facet of your operations, entrusting your IT needs to a partner like FTI ensures you stay ahead of the curve.
FTI brings to the table not just an extensive 38 years of technical expertise, but also a commitment to personalized service. With FTI, you’re not just outsourcing your IT; you’re gaining a strategic partner dedicated to optimizing your technology to fuel your business growth. Learn more about how we can help – get in touch today!
