Consider the plight of the IT department. Perhaps they support offices in multiple time zones. Maybe they are tasked with maintenance and backup, as well. Any blind spots or an infrastructure disruption can wreak havoc on your digital business. Next thing you know, someone calls in sick, and you’re sweating bullets hoping your site doesn’t crash.

These vulnerabilities, not to mention endless worries, might have induced the motivation to look for additional support in managed IT services or IT outsourcing. You might be engaged in research right now. However, you don’t know the difference between managed IT services and IT outsourcing. Aren’t they the same thing? Not exactly. Read on for our explanation.

Is managed IT a different name for IT outsourcing?

Often, people think managed IT is just business jargon for IT outsourcing. Further, many picture the worst-case scenario of unskilled remote workers who speak a different language. Is this managed IT? Well, no, it is not. So, you can put your worst fears to rest. Managed IT does involve hiring an external team, but it usually consists of a team located in the same country who are highly skilled and speak the same language as you do.

In contrast, IT outsourcing usually involves managing specific business processes such as file scanning, data entry, or a help desk. With IT outsourcing, you pick services piecemeal.

On the other hand, managed IT provides a holistic approach to technology services. A managed services partner will have experience in a wide range of technology fields and often employs a team of certified IT professionals experienced in both operational and managerial support of services and applications.

Preparing for future success

Say your firewalls have gone live but still need particular functions, and your end users are not receiving the full benefit of robust network protection. Given the increasing sophistication of cyber attacks, the best decision would be to work with a reputable cyber security service provider.

Your managed cyber security services provider will assess to determine vulnerable endpoints and why your firewalls aren’t offering an adequate return on the investment. If your pre-packaged solution isn’t performing as expected, a managed IT services provider can create a custom package just for you.

Yet, an outsourcing partner would treat the situation differently. They may do whatever you ask, but they will not have the expertise to offer advice on how to manage your cyber security protocols best. However, a managed IT services provider is invested in your business success and will offer personalized solutions that are effective and strategic for the long term.

At times, the suggestions might even transform your organization so that it is better prepared for the future markets. Maybe they suggest a secure cloud infrastructure to ensure cyber security and business continuity. Managed IT services offer solutions that go beyond merely fixing a broken system.

What do you get with managed IT?

A managed IT vendor would offer a broader range of services when compared to IT outsourcing. Managed IT goes further than help desk or software deployment. Other benefits may include:

● Assessing network and security.
● Managing company-wide mobile devices.
● Improving operating speeds.
● Network monitoring.
● Identifying security vulnerabilities.
● Mobile device management.
● Disaster recovery

All of these tasks can be included within the scope of a partnership agreement. Of course, it depends on what you need and what a managed IT vendor offers.

Since managed IT is not based on one-off services; the benefits offer long-term ROI for efficiency, productivity, and security while lowering costs associated with on-premises hardware and in-house staff. The focus is on providing a comprehensive IT infrastructure.

When it comes to managing the needs of businesses operating in the digital age, managed IT can help solve issues in real-time to mitigate system crashes and data breaches. Many business components are run by technology that can be both complex and expensive. It helps to know you have a reliable vendor you can count on and adequately trained and experienced. As a result, you can stay on top of your strategic workload instead of spending most of your time putting out fires. You will have preventative measures in place to ensure your systems are secure and updated. If any issues occur, you have the peace of mind that professionals are available to help immediately.

It’s also helpful to note that managed IT services come with a predictable monthly payment model that incorporates repair services. If any unanticipated issues occur, you are covered.

Besides, you have a team who will ensure your technologies are up-to-date and provide much more innovative options than you might have considered.

You will also get better business continuity and reduced downtime by using a proactive approach to IT management.

And of course, you get access to expertise from a team that continuously updates their certifications and best practices.

Partner with the right managed IT services provider

Now you can see the difference between managed IT and IT outsourcing. Managed IT services providers can usually manage every component of technology in your business. You want to work with a reputable managed IT vendor who has the expertise to work with technologies that your business needs and wants. They should have a team that will always offer support and specialists and the right skillsets to align with your tech management needs. For more information on our comprehensive list of services, contact SSI today.