Technology significantly affects the performance of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). Managed IT support allows SMEs to outsource their IT operations instead of spending resources on an in-house IT team. Small business owners should understand the benefits of a managed IT support service and what it entails before making the decision of outsourcing.
What is Managed IT Support for SMEs?
Managed IT support is the practice of outsourcing IT functions and services such as network monitoring, cybersecurity, data storage, and help desk support to small and medium enterprises. Managed IT Support for SMEs allows these businesses to access specialised IT services at a fraction of the cost of having an in-house IT department.
Is IT Support Important for Small Businesses?
Having a dedicated IT specialist ensures that the technological infrastructure is properly maintained with minimal disruptions to the employees’ ability to be productive. Managed IT services offer SMEs access to expertly-maintained systems using cutting-edge tools and technology, often at a lower cost than an in-house IT team.
In the UK, the Government assists SMEs with adopting new technologies to boost their productivity as well as improve their security with their ‘Help to Grow’ scheme.
Why is IT Support So Important For SMEs?
In the United Kingdom, the small and medium enterprises sector makes up the backbone of the economy. Managed IT support is essential as technology infiltrates every aspect of work to increase productivity, security and competitiveness of SMEs.
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24/7 Customer Support
Every minute counts in business, and prompt resolutions for every IT issue is paramount. Manned IT Providers offer this value along with other around-the-clock support.
Routine System Upkeep
Managed IT services are constantly maintaining business systems with routine maintenance and updates as needed, which significantly lowers the chances of technical challenges and security risks.
More For Less
Managed IT services usually operate on a subscription model with fixed monthly fees, eliminating the need for large capital expenditures on IT equipment. This helps SMEs manage their budget better.
Data Loss Prevention
Managed IT services assist with the swift recovering of systems in the event all data is lost or the system stops functioning as intended.
Scalability
Managed IT services are useful across every stage of business growth due to their easy adjustment to accommodate new users, locations, or services with very little disruption.
Better Compliance with Regulations
MEs are supported by managed IT providers as they keep track of industry compliance regulations and assist in ensuring the compliance mark is met for standards like GDPR.
Access to Expert Assistance
Managed IT support services provide SMEs with professionals that specialise in a wide range of IT support issues, ensuring seamless assistance and solutions.
Enhanced Cybersecurity
In the UK alone, 32% of businesses experience breaches or cyberattacks. Managed IT services protect sensitive information with utmost security measures against ever-growing cyber threats.
Increased Productivity
Shifting IT functions to external providers improves the productivity and efficiency of SMEs as the company is able to devote its resources to other core functions.
Competitive Edge
SMEs are able to compete in their particular markets more effectively when they utilise sophisticated IT tools and specialised help as the adoption of digital technology is associated with improvement in productivity and innovation.
What Should a Managed IT Support Service Include?
Managed IT support services should incorporate all areas of your technology.
This normally covers help desk support, data backups, remote monitoring, hardware maintenance, cybersecurity, software updates, and even disaster recovery planning. A lot of providers today have cloud management services, IT compliance support (think GDPR), and even strategic business IT services to foster company growth. In essence, they’re meant to take care of the considerable worry for you, providing you with peace of mind that your technology is secure, functioning, and optimised.
