IT can be incredibly complex, and as such we are used to being asked questions on a regular basis. Here then we present an IT Managed Services FAQ article. Hopefully it will shed some light on one of our core service offerings whilst also making IT seem a little less… intimidating!
What Are IT Managed Services?
Provided by a “Managed Services Provider” (MSP), IT Managed Services see the MSP working with clients’ management and IT teams to deliver a successful IT service to their users. By using an MSP, the benefits can be numerous (more below). One example is that they represent a leading way in which modern businesses can keep their IT systems secure from cyber security threats. This can be achieved via 24/7 monitoring and then prevention, which includes security patching and regular updates. Managed services in IT can typically include:
- Administrative tasks- Data Integrity Design and Implementation
- Document and Data Management
- Messaging
- Monitoring Services
- Remote Access
- Resource Contracting
- Security
- Technical Support
- Telecommunication
- Training
NB: It is important to note that all MSPs are different.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Managed IT Services?
As well as the aforementioned security benefits, there are many more to consider when deciding to use an MSP, including:
- Lower your costs – you only need to request IT support when it is needed- Gain peace of mind – MSPs can ensure robust, reliable networks and IT systems
- Enjoy around-the-clock support from experts
- Reduce the strain on in-house IT staff
- Allow your people to move away from day-to-day operations and then re-focus on other important tasks
- Holistic approaches can help to streamline operations
There are so many benefits that can be enjoyed but it is also important to note that approach is key. In other words, one MSP may be able to deliver good results for company A, but not for company B. The best MSPs typically work hard to understand the requirements of each and every client. They do not attempt to impose a ‘one-size-fits-all’ methodology, rather tailoring their service accordingly.
How To Choose The Right MSP
In essence, a Managed Service Provider manages your IT infrastructure and acts as your IT department. Therefore, finding the right one can be a difficult process. Here then are some key questions to ask any prospective MSP:
- What experience or expertise do you have in my industry?- Which solutions do you provide?
- Can your solutions scale and grow in line with my organisation?
- Are any of your IT services or products proprietary?
- How do you stay updated on the latest technology?
Many MSPs can provide a broad level of IT support but some industries require specific knowledge and skills. For example, here at ICE we work with clients from many different sectors but have a particular specialism in the cruise industry. It is crucial then that you discover where the MSPs you speak with specialise exactly.
As we covered earlier in this piece, IT Managed Services can include many offerings. For example, some MSPs feature security within their portfolio. What does that mean, exactly? Do they have IT Security experts at their disposal? Are they accredited in any way?
Scalable solutions are vital in IT, due to the ever-changing nature of tech in general. Digital transformation is very much ongoing, so you need to be sure that your potential MSP can keep up. It is also worth noting whether or not they provide any proprietary solutions – what would happen if you were to part ways? Would you lose anything?
Finally, training is supremely important. Ideally, your MSP will have processes in place designed to keep them and their staff ‘in the know’ on relevant tech developments.
Additional Questions
This IT Managed Services FAQ offers a brief glimpse into the key initial questions we answer on a regular basis. If you have any further queries on MSPs in general, or on the services provided by theICEway ecosystem, then we would love to hear from you.
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