An estimated 56% of companies report notable savings by integrating managed services into their business strategy. However, what managed services can provide extends far beyond cost savings. Through managed IT services, businesses access agility and expertise essential for growth in a technology-driven world.
“Managed IT services are an investment that drives efficiency and innovation.” – Eric Hullibarger, President, AhelioTech.
The level of service that you’ll receive will vary based on your service level agreement (SLA). Although, there are still a few common benefits of managed services. These benefits include enhanced data protection, network management, and better alignment between IT and your business goals.
This article will show you how a managed service provider (MSP) provides these benefits. We’ll explore how managed services work, what services they generally offer, and what you can expect from an MSP.
The Managed IT Definition
Managed IT services combine a range of outsourced IT functions designed to streamline business operations using specialized skills and advanced technology. These services span routine maintenance to complex cybersecurity, supporting a complete IT strategy.
Managed IT services use a subscription model that allows businesses to adjust their IT support based on specific needs. This flexible approach adapts to rapidly changing environments and gives businesses access to the latest technology and industry best practices without requiring significant in-house investments.
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What is an IT Managed Services Provider?
An IT managed services provider (MSP) works with businesses to manage various IT functions, providing reliable, scalable services customized to fit their needs. Partnering with an MSP gives businesses access to high-level expertise without the costs of building an extensive in-house IT team.
MSPs not only maintain IT infrastructure but also continually optimize it to meet changing business demands. For all of these reasons and more, 60% of companies outsource some or all of their IT to an MSP.
How Managed Services Work
Managed services give companies a hands-off way to keep their IT systems up-to-date, secure, and running smoothly. The MSP becomes responsible for managing the technology, solving problems, and providing expertise across all the services they cover.
Here’s how they make that happen.
Understanding Your Business Requirements
An MSP starts the engagement by analyzing your organization’s specific IT environment and needs. This assessment creates the foundation for a customized strategy. By focusing on these requirements, the MSP can provide support that aligns with your company’s needs.
Setting Clear Expectations
Both the MSP and the company agree on a service level agreement (SLA). An SLA is a document that sets specific goals and expectations. The SLA details the MSP’s responsibilities, like how quickly they’ll respond to issues or how they’ll handle outages. Clear expectations ensure both parties have a transparent and structured approach to service delivery.
What’s included in your SLA will vary depending on who you work with. However, here are a few examples of which expectations often appear in an SLA.
| Response Time | Defines how quickly the MSP will acknowledge and begin addressing reported issues, typically with priority levels (e.g., critical vs. low-priority). |
| Resolution Time | Sets maximum allowable times for full issue resolution, with specific targets for different severity levels. |
| Uptime Guarantee | Ensures a minimum percentage of uptime for systems and networks, often calculated on a monthly or quarterly basis. |
| Data Backup and Recovery | Specifies backup frequency and recovery protocols to protect and restore data in case of loss or corruption. |
| Security Protocols | Lists the security measures and standards the MSP will follow to protect data and systems, including an incident response plan. |
Integration With Your IT Environment
The MSP connects directly to the company’s IT infrastructure, allowing remote access and monitoring. This setup lets the MSP manage resources, apply updates, and resolve issues without being onsite. The connection allows the MSP to monitor and adjust systems as needed to keep operations smooth.
Structured Communication
Open communication channels ensure consistent updates on IT performance, resolved issues, and any recommended changes. These regular updates keep internal teams informed about the status of their IT environment without requiring daily oversight.
Scheduled Maintenance
Routine maintenance, such as system updates and performance checks, helps maintain system stability and security. These tasks typically occur during off-peak hours to avoid disruptions in regular business operations. By addressing potential issues early, the MSP reduces the likelihood of unexpected downtime.
Documentation & Reporting
Detailed documentation records all updates, issues, and resolutions, providing a clear history of IT activities. Regular reports offer transparency and help the company track service effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. This thorough documentation supports accountability and shows the ongoing impact of managed services.
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What Managed Services Usually Include
Managed Security Services
Managed security services help companies stay ahead of potential cyber threats and maintain a safer IT environment. That’s because they help reduce risk through threat detection, incident response, and vulnerability assessments. These services also include endpoint protection to secure devices across your network.
Technical Support
Technical support within managed services offers dedicated assistance through IT helpdesks or customer portals. This support system allows users to report and track issues. Most MSPs will also offer response time guarantees to help your employees solve problems quickly and boost productivity.
Cloud Services
Managed cloud computing services provide oversight for public, private, or hybrid cloud environments, including resource management and cost control. Additionally, with 48% of businesses storing highly sensitive information in cloud-based systems, cloud security is also a top priority.
Data Backup & Disaster Recovery Solutions
Managed data backup and disaster recovery services keep data safe and accessible in case of system failures. These services include regular backups and storage management to minimize downtime. With these solutions, businesses are better prepared to prevent data loss.
Network Infrastructure Management
Network infrastructure management includes monitoring and troubleshooting network components like routers, firewalls, and switches. These services keep network configurations up-to-date and efficient. For businesses with hybrid cloud setups, managed network services also improve performance across environments.
Software & Application Management
Managed software services handle the maintenance and troubleshooting of important business applications. This includes monitoring, updating, and securing productivity tools and other essential software. Proper software management keeps applications running smoothly and securely.
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Enjoy All That MSPs Offer With a Great Partner
If you’re ready to embrace the managed services model, your next step is to find a great MSP partner. Not all MSPs are alike, so it’s important to do your research to choose the right one for your specific needs.
If you know what you’re looking for, start with AhelioTech. We offer flexible month-to-month agreements and offer 24/7 service with a 15 minute average response time. Rest assured that we will cover your needs anytime you need us.
Reach out today to get started.
