Managed IT services have become an essential part of many organizations due to the benefits they provide. However, if you are currently in the stages of deciding whether managed IT is right for you, it is important to understand the pricing model and the benefits that these services provide. This will allow you to make an informed decision.
What is Managed IT?
Managed IT involves outsourcing the management and maintenance of your organization’s IT to a third-party provider known as a managed service provider or MSP. It may include anything from network management and cybersecurity to cloud services, data backup, and helpdesk support. The MSP takes full responsibility for monitoring, managing, and supporting your IT infrastructure, allowing you more time to focus on other things.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Managed IT
The cost of managed IT may vary significantly, depending on several factors:
1. Scope of Services
The range of services you require from your MSP is a large factor in determining the cost. Basic packages may include essential monitoring and maintenance, while more comprehensive services might involve advanced IT solutions, cloud management, cybersecurity, disaster recovery, and strategic consulting. The more support your organization requires, the more it will cost.
It is also important to address the difference between fully managed IT and co-managed IT. Co-managed IT, where the MSP works alongside your organization’s internal IT staff, may have a different cost structure when compared with fully managed IT, where the MSP handles everything for you. When performing your cost-benefit analysis, you should take into account how much support you are likely to need.
2. Size of Your Business
The size of your organization, including the number of employees and the complexity of your IT infrastructure, will also impact the cost. Larger organizations with more users, devices, and locations will generally pay more due to the increased need for support and resources.
3. Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
SLAs define the level of service you can expect from an MSP, including response times, availability, and support hours. A more stringent SLA, such as one that guarantees 24/7 support services with rapid response times, will often cost more than a basic SLA with limited support hours. It is important to read the SLA thoroughly so that you understand these service commitments.
4. On-Premises vs. Cloud-Based
Cost can be influenced by whether your IT infrastructure is on-premises, cloud-based or a hybrid model. Cloud computing services provide additional scalability and flexibility, but are usually billed separately. On-premises services, in comparison, might involve more upfront costs for hardware and software but could lead to lower long-term expenses.
The Value of Managed IT Services
While the cost of managed IT can be quite steep depending on the services required, the benefits still make it worthwhile. There are several reasons why you may want to partner with an MSP:
1. Predictable IT Costs
MSPs typically operate on a monthly flat fee, providing organizations with highly predictable IT costs. Their support services also reduce the unexpected costs associated with downtime. This allows for easier budgeting and financial planning.
2. Access to Expertise
Partnering with an MSP provides you with access to a team of IT experts, without needing to hire and train your own in-house staff. This expertise can be invaluable, especially for organizations with limited resources.
3. Better Security
MSPs often provide robust managed security services such as threat detection, regular system updates, and next-generation firewalls. This helps protect your organization from potential cyber threats, which is highly valuable.
4. Scalability
Managed IT is designed to easily scale up or down as your needs change. This allows you to add or remove services without needing to make significant changes internally.
Begin Your Managed IT Journey
The cost of managed IT can be difficult to pin down due to how much of it relies on your organization’s specific needs. But if you have a good understanding of your organization, your current IT infrastructure, and the specific services you are looking for, you will be equipped to make the right decision about whether managed IT is the most cost-effective choice for you.
CTS provides a full suite of managed IT solutions designed to empower your organization. Our client-focused support takes your needs into account every step of the way, delivering services that are tailored perfectly to you. Learn more about how managed IT can help your organization today.
