Understanding Managed IT Services
A recent study (2023) by MarketsAndMarkets (Managed Services Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth Drivers, Opportunities & Statistics) shows that annual sales of Managed Services will grow from USD275 billion to 372 billion by 2028.
Why are so many businesses jumping onboard with a Managed IT Services provider like Revolution?
And what are the key drivers behind this dramatic shift away from D.I.Y. IT?
Businesses in the small to medium sector (SMBs) are increasingly turning to managed IT services to streamline their operations, protect their data, and stay competitive. But what exactly are managed IT services, and why are they so crucial?
What Are Managed IT Services?
Managed IT Services (or Managed IT Support) involve outsourcing a company’s IT operations to a Managed Service Provider (MSP), which oversees and maintains the IT infrastructure to ensure smooth and efficient performance. Revolution is a good example of an MSP that supports small to medium businesses in New Zealand.
Key Benefits of Managed IT Services
Cost Efficiency: A main benefit of managed IT services is cost savings. By outsourcing IT tasks, businesses reduce the need for in-house staff to perform IT jobs for which they may have neither the skills nor speed to do well. This in turn boosts productivity.
Expertise: MSPs offer extensive knowledge and experience. They keep current with the latest technology and best practices, making sure your IT systems remain compliant and up-to-date.
Proactive Maintenance: Instead of waiting for problems, MSPs actively manage IT by continuously monitoring systems to spot potential issues early.
Scalability: As your business grows, so do your IT needs. Managed IT services offer the flexibility to scale your IT resources up or down based on your requirements.
Security: Cybersecurity is a top concern for SMBs. MSPs provide robust security measures, including regular updates, threat detection, and response strategies, to protect your data and systems from cyber threats.
Seven key areas of Managed IT Support
Types of Managed IT Services
The term ‘managed IT services’ includes a wide range of services. These include:
Monitoring and Management: This service keeps an eye on and manages a company’s computers and servers to make sure they’re running smoothly and safely. It helps catch and fix issues fast, reducing downtime and keeping everything working well.
Cloud Computing: Cloud services give businesses flexible access to things like servers, storage, and apps over the internet. A good example of this is Microsoft 365 or Azure. This way, companies can save money on physical IT equipment.
Data Backup and Disaster Recovery: Protecting your data and ensuring your business can continue operating if a disaster strike is critical. An MSP can provide a business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR) solution that is sized for your business needs.
Tech Support: Tech support and help desk support offers expert help with all sorts of IT problems, from software glitches to hardware fixes. A friendly and knowledgeable help desk makes sure tech issues get sorted quickly.
Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity services defend businesses against digital threats like malware, ransomware, and hacks. They include regular security checks, protective measures, and ongoing monitoring to keep sensitive info safe.
IT Infrastructure Management: Managing the essential IT systems like networks and business connectivity ensures the IT setup is efficient, and ready for current and future business needs.
Managing Mobile Devices: Mobile device management (MDM) takes care of and secures smartphones and tablets used by a company. MDM policies control access to company networks, protect data, and ensure compliance with regulations.
Who Can Benefit from Managed IT Services?
Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs)
SMBs usually don’t have the resources to run a full IT department. Managed IT services give them access to a team of experts, similar to what big companies have, but at a lower cost.
Businesses with Strict Industry Regulations
Some industries—like healthcare, finance, and legal—face strict regulatory requirements regarding data handling and privacy. MSPs understand industry-specific regulations and assist businesses in staying compliant.
Businesses Looking for Cost-Effective IT Services
Managed IT services offer scalability, allowing businesses to adjust the level of service based on their changing needs. This flexibility ensures that businesses only pay for what they need, making it a cost-effective solution for companies of all sizes, especially those looking to optimise their IT spend.
Choosing the Right MSP
Picking the right Managed Service Provider is key to getting the most out of managed IT services. You should look at things like their experience, what services they offer, how good their customer support is, and their pricing plans. A solid MSP should be a strategic partner, working with you to reach your business goals and aiming for long-term success.
Helping Business Like Yours Grow for Over 25 Years
Managed IT services can really help cut down your costs and workload, especially with the right IT partner. It’s all about finding someone who gets what you need and wants to build a long-term relationship.
Check out our IT services:
- Managed IT Support
- Cloud Services including Microsoft 365
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud Phone Systems and Internet Connections
- Backup & Disaster Recovery
We have earned the trust from more than 500 of our managed services clients that we look after across New Zealand.
Contact us for a free consultation today and see how we can help your business grow and make your business IT perform better!