The IT solutions of an organization which is outsourced/delegated to an external Managed Service Provider are known as managed IT solutions. The outsourced service provider assumes the 360-degree responsibilities of all the IT functions of the organization, which includes 24X7 proactive monitoring, problem solution and IT support on demand. A Managed Service Provider also involved deployment of the latest applications, enhanced networking facilities, creation of system requirements definition and creation of policy and procedure manuals. This enables the companies to leverage on the cost-effective and uninterrupted IT solutions provided by an outsourced Managed Service Provider Company.
Outsourced IT Solutions provides maximum value for your investment. IT Managed Service Providers working on a contract basis with your business needs can be accessed at any point of time for assistance or urgent repairs. They are generally located in data centres or are stationed in different countries across the world. In addition to this, these IT Solutions providers can deploy expert staff who possess vast domain knowledge and experience in the field of Information Technology.
However, before choosing an IT solutions provider, it is essential to check the kind of resources the service level allows for. If you outsource your IT function to a Managed Service Provider, the cost part comes into focus. This is because the outsourced companies usually do not have their own IT infrastructure. The most common resources used by Managed Service Providers include servers, desktops, storage systems and network infrastructure. The process of hiring the services is the same whether you decide to outsource it internally or to outsource it to a Managed Service Provider.
The Basic Role of Managed IT Service Providers
Since the IT functions are carried out on the basis of contracts, the management of such functions needs to be in place. The management is typically done by the managing company. However, in many other instances the role of the Managed Service Provider is taken over by the outsourcing company. The contracting company takes over the administration of the contractual IT functions to the managed service provider. Since there are several factors to consider when it comes to outsourcing to a Managed Service Provider, it is recommended that you take the help of a consultant who will guide you as per the requirements.
One of the biggest advantages of Outsourcing is the cost. Whether you choose to outsource to a Managed Service Provider or internally, it will provide you with great cost savings. Since the IT functions are carried out on a contractual basis, you can easily avail of the best services at lower cost. The benefits of outsourcing include fewer operational costs and faster execution of projects. Most important of all, the increase in efficiency helps in reducing the overall cost and hence the overall productivity too.
There are many disadvantages when it comes to outsourcing to a Managed Service Provider. For one, there can be hardly any sort of communication between the in-house and outsourced third-party. This may result in errors and delay in execution. A lot of time is spent on in-house operations and a lot of money is also spent on training of staff and conducting trainings. However, this is not the case when it comes to outsourced third-party support.
Pros And Cons of Outsourcing Your IT
Another big disadvantage of outsourcing is that there is no direct control over the process. All the decisions are made by the managing company. In fact, the whole concept of ‘In-house’ IT is not possible when it comes to Managed Service Providers. You can’t control the process, which means the quality and standards of work can’t be guaranteed. This can cost the company a lot in terms of increased operational costs and increased workload.
But all these risks are balanced out by various advantages offered by Managed Service Providers. One such advantage is the lower costs involved. Outsourcing to a managed service provider proactively provides you with a pricing model that meets your business needs and requirements. Moreover, it offers you various other benefits, such as control over different aspects of its operation. It is also a great choice for those companies looking forward to improving their overall profitability and security.