4 Benefits Of IT Support For Small To Medium Businesses
Managed IT support services from external providers were once considered to be the preserve of large corporations, and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) traditionally relied on an in-house team. However, as our dependence on technology grows and IT networks become increasingly sophisticated, this is no longer the case.
Many SMEs now recognise that in-house management is not always the most efficient approach for crucial IT systems. It is now common for businesses of all shapes and sizes to outsource some or all of their IT functions to a managed service provider (MSP).
Typically, an MSP will offer some or all of the following: infrastructure management; cloud migration; data storage and backup; cybersecurity and accreditation; and telecoms support. Here are some of the key benefits of this option for SMEs.
More time and resources for core business operations
Most SMEs want to get on with the core business operations rather than divert resources to managing their IT infrastructure. The technical maintenance may fall on the shoulders of non-specialists who juggle the task with their main job roles, and understandably do not have cutting edge expertise or awareness of the latest developments in the sector.
At best, this can lead to sub-optimal efficiency, with slow running systems that reduce productivity and provide an interior customer service. At worst, it can lead to frequent downtime that brings operations to a standstill, and vulnerability to devastating cybersecurity attacks.
An MSP will oversee the technical support and cybersecurity and maintenance, allowing the SME to focus on doing what they do best.
Enhanced cybersecurity
Cyber threats are increasingly prevalent as the world becomes more dependent on technology, and cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated and subtle in their methods. An MSP will deploy multiple measures to ensure that your business data is as safe and secure as possible at all times.
They will have access to the latest cyber security technologies including antivirus software, firewalls, and data back up systems. The MSP will also be able to monitor your IT systems continuously and proactively, meaning that any issues will be flagged up and dealt with before they are allowed to escalate.
Furthermore, the MSP can provide specialist services such as infrastructure penetration testing, which simulates cyber attacks to identify weaknesses in the system that may be exploited by criminals. They will then take the necessary measures to mitigate against future cybersecurity threats.
The MSP can also provide cyber security accreditation, which provides reassurance to your clients and customers that they can trust you with sensitive information. Cyber attacks such as ransomware infiltration are not only disruptive to your business operations and finances, but they can also lead to severe penalties for breaching data protection regulations.
By outsourcing your IT security, you can be confident that your business will always be compliant with General Data Protection Regulations. This can be a difficult area to navigate without expert assistance, particularly in the era of cloud storage where different rules and regulations may apply across physical borders.
Access to the most up to date tools and software
One of the biggest IT challenges SMEs face is ensuring that their systems are the most efficient and up to date, so that they can remain competitive in today’s fast moving and crowded business landscape.
Experienced and qualified IT professionals will be able to advise on what technology will benefit your business the most, and offer tailored solutions that are designed to maximise efficiency and productivity.
By collaborating with an MSP, you will be able to access state of the art software and hardware that you otherwise would not have the financial resources or technical expertise to operate. This can help SMEs to stay one step ahead of the competition and offer unrivalled customer experience.
Cost efficiencies
Many SMEs operate on tight budgets with very little slack in the system. The cost of using an MSP versus maintaining an in-house IT support team often works out much lower and brings far greater benefits.
The MSP will be able to provide a scalable solution that is tailored to your specific needs, so you are only paying for what you require, and your situation will be reviewed on a regular basis.
You are also highly likely to benefit from more streamlined IT systems for faster operations, and in the rare event of any downtime, a team of experts will be on hand to get you back on track as soon as possible.
