Regardless of the industry, most businesses require additional services. These services may be highly specialized like IT or include more general tasks such as vendor management and staffing.

An MSP (managed service provider) delivers and manages various business-related services. MSPs traditionally deal with IT implementation, which is particularly important in markets dominated by digital technologies. To make the most out of managed services, you’ll need to know precisely what their providers do and how their work contributes to your organization.

This article will explain the essential role and purpose of MSPs and outline their biggest benefits.

MSP (Managed Service Provider) Definition and Common Roles

The basic function of MSPs is aptly described by the name itself: they are the providers of managed services. As strategic partners of your business, MSPs maintain continuity in one or several areas of your business.

The main goal of an MSP (managed service provider) is to make the organization more efficient in regard to specific business operations. To that end, MSPs employ an expert workforce that can leverage cutting-edge technologies to deal with even the most challenging tasks.

As mentioned before, the primary function of MSPs relates to IT. The provided services in this field may include the installation and management of IT infrastructure, cybersecurity solutions, networks, and data storage. However, while businesses will most often outsource IT tasks, MSPs can cover other areas as well:

  • Human resources
  • Vendor management
  • Payroll
  • Contract compliance
  • Recruitment and onboarding

In terms of IT, an MSP (managed service provider) can deliver the following services:

  • Networking
  • Security systems
  • Server applications
  • Software patches and updates
  • Hosting
  • Data backup
  • Remote monitoring
  • Cloud
  • Help desk
  • Disaster recovery

Largest Benefits of an MSP (Managed Service Provider)

When discussing the benefits of MSPs, it’s worth noting that the services they provide differ from the standard break-fix model. In other words, an MSP (managed service provider) doesn’t wait for an issue to occur. Instead, the provider bases their work on constant system monitoring to prevent failure and the resulting downtime.

Simply put, MSPs aren’t reactive but proactive. This distinction allows the providers to contribute to a business in several crucial aspects.

1. Cost-Efficiency

MSPs can cut down IT expenses considerably. The managed services function on a subscription model which can be monthly or annual. For the cost of the subscription, the service will monitor, maintain, and repair crucial systems regularly, preventing unforeseen costs from sudden equipment breakdowns.

If a business needs to bring its IT systems online from scratch, the costs of assembling a trained team and equipping them with proper equipment can create a significant financial impact. However, an MSP (managed service provider) comes with a much lower upfront cost.

In addition, the service includes regular maintenance and repairs in the contract, which means even substantial repairs may be covered by the subscription. Plus, the expenses of a managed service are always predictable since the customer knows exactly what they’ll get for the price.

2. Reduced Downtime

The downtime resulting from hardware or software issues represents one of the biggest pain points for businesses. A single problem with a computer, server, or even the power supply may mean hours of disrupted operations, which translate into potential financial loss.

There are other causes of downtime as well. For instance, cyberattacks can cause systems to stop functioning properly and practically every aspect of everyday business is prone to human error.

MSPs can remedy the majority of downtime causes through simultaneous use of several techniques. Redundant systems can be put in place to provide backup in case of equipment malfunction, safeguards may prevent critical risks, and proper protection will repel most attackers.

As a result, an MSP (managed service provider) can keep your business operations running full-time, helping your organization avoid unnecessary and potentially harmful breaks.

3. Expert Support

In-house IT teams can be complicated and expensive to hire and set up. Worse yet, there’s no way of knowing how efficient they’ll be until a crisis prompts them into action. At that point, it might be too late to find out whether the IT team is ready to face the challenge.

Furthermore, even if the in-house IT team is competent, they may lack the tools and resources necessary to do their job properly. All these factors can lead to poor maintenance and system operation.

MSPs remove these risks by introducing a dedicated team of experts into your work environment. The service provider has specialists with just the right sets of skills for every area. Working alongside experienced, knowledgeable technicians will provide the peace of mind as well as the right support when you need it the most.

4. Scalable Service

Many companies struggle with the same symptom related to IT teams. They start with a relatively small team with just enough resources to cover the basic daily needs. But as the organization grows, that team becomes understaffed and its resources get depleted.

Expanding the original IT team isn’t as straightforward as it seems. The issue is that hiring additional team members comes with the risks of not knowing how they’ll perform and if they’ll remain with your business in the long run.

With MSPs, the IT service is flexible and capable of scaling as your company grows. The provider can accommodate any changes in the company structure and adjust the service to the latest requirements.

Find the Ideal Service for Your Business Needs

If you need an IT solution for your company with minimal downsides and enormous benefits, getting an MSP (managed service provider) is the best way to go. All of the essential systems will be set up and maintained in proper working condition at a fraction of the cost it would take to do the same in-house.

OIT represents the perfect choice for your business in the Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, and Mansfield areas. As a dedicated Department of Modern Office Methods, Optimized IT has the expert support you need and will satisfy all the IT-related requirements of your organization.

If you’re interested in a seamless IT managed service, don’t hesitate to contact OIT today and get informed on the available solutions and services.