What are Managed IT Services?
IT solutions are increasingly essential for today’s businesses. As a result, managing these solutions is growing in complexity and cost. This is when many business owners find themselves asking the question, “What are managed IT services?”
Managed IT services offer business teams a lifeline, providing expert care for their technology ecosystem. This is likely why at least 60% of companies are expected to use the resources of managed IT services by 2025.
“We’ve seen a tremendous increase in demand for managed services from business owners that traditionally didn’t have much need for tech support. Technology and computers are required in all businesses now, but most business leaders don’t want their teams focused on “technical headaches.” That is where we as managed service providers can come in and free up teams to focus on what really drives their businesses.”
-Karen Novotny, CEO, California Computer Options
But, what exactly are these services, and how can they benefit your business?
This blog post will unpack the world of managed IT services, exploring their advantages, types, and how they differ from other tech solutions. Additionally, we will delve into the key considerations when selecting a service provider.
What are Managed IT Services?
Managed IT Services Definition
Managed IT services refer to tasks handled by a third-party provider with expertise in information technology services. In this relationship, companies delegate their IT tasks and support needs to specialists, thus reducing IT maintenance costs, enhancing service quality, and freeing up internal team hours to focus on business-specific work.
Managed IT services include several solutions that generally include:
- Monitoring and maintenance of IT software and hardware
- IT systems management
- IT consulting services
- Remote monitoring of servers
- Network monitoring
- Support services
- Cloud-based services
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How Do Managed Services Work?
Managed services begin with a business owner needing help overseeing and managing their technology. They seek the advice and help of expert service providers who then are hired to oversee the organization’s IT environment.
The business owner entrusts the IT services provider to be responsible for ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, proactively monitoring for cybersecurity threats, and planning long-term IT strategies.
Types of Managed IT Services
As technology continues to evolve and grow, so do the different types of support solutions needed to keep each innovation running smoothly. This is in addition to the different needs of each business. As such, there is a variety of managed IT services designed to meet each technological need and business goal.
A list of the most commonly leveraged services include:
| Managed Service Type | Service Description |
| Cloud Services and Support | Assistance with managing and optimizing cloud-based infrastructure and applications. |
| Managed Security Services | Comprehensive cybersecurity measures to protect your IT assets. |
| Business Continuity Services | Includes disaster recovery and data backup to ensure business operations remain uninterrupted. |
| Network Monitoring and Support | Regular checkups and updates to keep your network running smoothly. |
| Technical Support | Assistance for all your IT assets, including hardware, software, and network. |
| Mobile Device Support | Services focused on the management and security of mobile devices. |
| Technology Procurement | Assistance with acquiring the right technology assets for your business. |
| IT Roadmapping and Strategizing | Help with planning the future of your IT infrastructure and strategy. |
| vCIO Services | Virtual Chief Information Officer services for strategic IT leadership. |
Business Benefits of Managed IT Services
Cost Savings
Managed IT services can lead to significant cost savings. They should come with clear and transparent pricing options, which makes budgeting easier. By outsourcing IT operations, businesses can save on staff and training costs.
Access to Expertise
Managed IT services fill the skills gap within an organization. The MSPs are experts in their field, allowing your team to focus on innovation without getting bogged down in routine tasks.
Focus on Core Business Functions
By outsourcing IT tasks to experts, internal teams are freed up to do work that’s specific to their business, allowing them to focus more on core business functions and less on overwhelming IT management.
Increased Business Continuity
Managed IT services provide reliable service, reducing the risk of outages and ensuring business continuity. They are responsible for the health and security of their services, including applying patches and upgrades as needed to keep networks and systems operating at peak performance.
Better Allocation of Labor Resources
With IT management in the hands of experts, businesses can reallocate their internal resources to areas where they are most needed. This ensures that labor resources are used in the most effective manner possible.
Are You Ready for Managed IT Support? Take the Quiz!
Not sure if your business would benefit from outside IT support? Answer the following questions to see for yourself.
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If you answered “Yes” to most of these questions, it’s time to speak with a qualified managed services provider. They can help you learn an easier way to handle your technology needs.
Tips to Choose the Right Provider
Selecting the right Managed IT Services Provider (MSP) is crucial to effectively manage your IT needs. Here are some factors to consider:
- Expertise and Experience. Look for an MSP with a proven track record and expertise in your industry. They should be familiar with the specific technologies and software your business uses.
- Service Offerings. Ensure the MSP offers a wide range of services, including the specific ones your business needs. These might include cloud services, network monitoring, cybersecurity, and more.
- Response Time. Check their service level agreements (SLAs) for response times. Rapid response can be crucial, especially in the event of a security breach or system failure.
- References and Reviews. Ask for references from current or past clients. Online reviews can also provide insight into the MSP’s reliability and quality of service.
- Pricing Structure. Understand their pricing model. It should be transparent, predictable, and provide value for your investment.
- Long-Term IT Strategy. Your MSP should be more than just a quick fix; they should be a strategic partner that can help plan for your IT needs in the long term.
Remember, the goal is to find a partner that understands and aligns with your business objectives, providing not just services, but also strategic advice and support.
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You Have Your Managed IT Definition – Now Move Forward with CCO
At California Computer Options, we have been providing exceptional MSP solutions to California businesses for over 25 years. We know how to keep your business’s technology up-to-date, operating at top capacity and delivering services that work with your budget.
Reach out today to learn more.
