Many small business owners struggle with the idea of trusting others outside the company who offer assistance and expertise. It’s one of the reasons why owners and other company officers end up wearing more than one hat. But you can’t always be an expert at everything, especially in a complex field like IT. Frequently, managed IT services offer the best solution regardless of a company’s size and ambitions.

Managed IT Services

All managed services are designed to improve business operations and manage expenditures in various ways. But managed IT services are arguably more than the flavor of the month. With most of the business world increasing its presence in the digital realm and employing technology solutions, IT expertise is in hot demand.

But why use a dedicated service provider instead of hiring full-time specialists or on-demand professionals? Three ongoing trends explain this need.

Three Trends

At least three trends that keep going strong indicate that more businesses should work with managed IT service providers.

Trend No. 1 – Cloud Storage and Computing

The cloud computing industry is accelerating at a rapid pace. It’s intertwined with the IT sector in many ways and keeps getting more traction. Cloud storage and computing platforms can allow small businesses to increase their reach and become globally recognized brands.

Cloud services streamline workflow and productivity in remote and hybrid workplaces. They enable business owners to invest in technology stacks and spark complete digital transformations in their companies without breaking the bank.

Cloud technology comes in many forms and may assist with various common issues.

  • Data storage
  • Computing power
  • Skill shortage
  • Automation
  • Communications
  • Collaboration
  • Infrastructure optimization

The list goes on. But despite its benefits, implementing cloud technology solutions isn’t easy for every company. Cloud services and platforms can easily accelerate a company’s digital transformation. Still, they’re essential to balancing budgets, supporting growth, and offering modern IT solutions to challenging problems.

Due to this trend, hiring managed IT services is a top priority for everyone, from small businesses to large enterprises. That’s because even cloud technology needs some implementation and monitoring by specialists you may not be able to afford to hire in-house.

Trend No. 2 – Automation and Outsourcing

Companies across all industries want to go through a digital transformation to keep up with the times. But an in-house team doesn’t always generate the best results. Not everyone has the capital or experience to create an IT department.

Outsourcing to IT service providers isn’t a new concept. This has been around for decades. But it wasn’t until recent times that managed IT services could offer the advantages it does today.

Managed IT service providers have specialized teams ready to tackle the many disruptions in the technology space. Business owners and entrepreneurs can constantly make investments in optimizing their IT tech, but that’s not a sustainable route.

Every year, it seems something new comes along. It may be a better solution or not. It can make some equipment or software tools redundant. It takes a village of specialists to stay on top of every new tech development and analyze its potential for various industries and businesses.

And with more companies already outsourcing everything from admin work to marketing to IT, managed IT services are a must-have in a fast-paced business environment.

Trend No. 3 – Cybersecurity

To those in the know, cybersecurity is a top priority. But not every business owner or office manager understands or accepts the risks of operating in the online space. Cyber threats lurk around every corner. It doesn’t matter if you run a print shop, personal blog, dispensary, or car manufacturing plant.

The world is becoming increasingly connected through devices. The Internet of Things connects phones, thermostats, personal computers, smart watches, printing machines, and everything in between.

Billions of connected devices means that communication is much easier. The Internet of Things can optimize workflow, boost productivity, and elevate the quality of life at home and at the office.

The downside is that it also exposes more devices, people, and operations to cyberattacks. Hacking, phishing, malware, and all sorts of other dangers circle businesses 24/7.

  • Hacks
  • DDoS attacks
  • Trojan viruses
  • Ransomware
  • Spyware
  • Phishing and all of its variations
  • Zero-day exploits

Being prepared means having a team capable of monitoring network activity 24/7.

It’s no stretch to call that a monumental undertaking for most small businesses, even those operating in the IT industry. Online security is crucial to avoid compromising sensitive client and company data. And it takes more than login policies, common sense, and employee awareness.

Companies need specialized hardware and software cybersecurity solutions and teams to actively prevent or respond to threats.

  • Firewalls
  • Login policies
  • Strong passwords
  • Two-factor authentication
  • Network monitoring
  • Anti-malware programs
  • Antivirus software
  • Network infrastructure optimization
  • Cloud backups
  • Disaster recovery plans

Managed IT services offer a great outsourcing opportunity for any company in dire need of better security. The right provider can assess your business and identify its vulnerabilities. It can recommend reliable solutions to prevent or mitigate damage in the event of an attack.

The best service providers will help your company get back on track and resume business operations should something happen.

Get Your Managed IT Services Today

Staying competitive in today’s market requires more than innovation, excellent delivery, and good client relationships. You must make your company flexible enough to adapt to new market trends, obstacles, and be impervious to attacks. Upgrading your technology with managed IT services is one of the most cost-effective and simplest ways to integrate new tech and complete your digital transformation.

Managed IT service providers can do a lot for a company, from overseeing office equipment integrations to providing personalized cloud and cybersecurity solutions. And unlike using the occasional consultant, you can get ongoing monitoring, guidance, and interventions.

Reach out to our managed IT services team for your Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, or Mansfield business, and let’s find the best solution together.