What is Managed IT Support and Services?

Technology is the backbone of modern business, but keeping up with IT demands can be overwhelming. Are you tired of wrestling with computer issues, security threats, and system failures? Managed IT support and services can be the solution to alleviate those technology headaches by handing them over to the experts.

Research reveals that businesses can reap substantial benefits from successfully deploying Managed IT Support and Services, including IT cost reductions of 25-45% and operational efficiency gains of an impressive 45-65%.

So, if you’re struggling with your IT services without in-house support, discover how a managed service provider can streamline your operations. 

What is Managed IT Support?

Managed IT support is a service where an outside IT company handles a business’s technology needs. Instead of having in-house IT staff, the managed IT provider monitors and maintains all computer systems, networks, and cybersecurity. 

They handle tasks like installing software updates, backing up data, providing technical help to employees, and ensuring systems are secure from hacks or viruses. 

Here’s why managed IT support and services make sense to SMEs:

• Keeping Up With Technology – New gadgets and software come out regularly. Managed service providers (MSPs) stay on top of the latest advancements, so you don’t have to.
• Avoiding Techie Trouble – Complying with all the rules and regulations regarding computers and data can be confusing. MSPs help ensure your company stays on the right side of the law.
• Not Everyone’s a Computer Whiz – Let’s face it, some things are best left to the professionals. If your internal team lacks the IT expertise to handle everything, an MSP can fill the gaps.
• Access to Expertise – One reason businesses outsource their IT processes to third-party service providers is to allow them to work with experts they don’t have in-house. This eliminates the need to hire and train full-time IT staff and provides access to a wider talent pool as needed.
• Cybersecurity Scares – Worried about hackers stealing your company’s data? MSPs can help protect your systems from cyberattacks, giving you peace of mind.

The big benefit? Predictable costs!  IT management can lead to unexpected expenses like new equipment or software licenses.  

With MSPs, SMEs pay a fee for only the IT services they need without hiring full-time IT personnel. This allows the company to focus on its main operations while the IT provider ensures everything tech-related runs smoothly. 

Preparing Your Business for Managed IT Support and Services

Before outsourcing your IT support and services, here are some internal preparations you can make to determine whether your business is well suited for managed IT support.

 1. Define Your Needs

• IT Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of your IT infrastructure, including hardware, software, security protocols, and user needs. This will help you understand your baseline and what requires the most support.
• Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Determine the level of service you expect from an MSP. This includes response times, resolution times, and specific services needed (e.g., network monitoring security patching).

2. Inventory and Documentation

• Hardware and Software Inventory – Create a detailed list of all your IT assets, including hardware (desktops, laptops, servers), software licenses, and versions.
• Network Documentation – Document your network configuration, including user accounts, security settings, and any existing network diagrams. This will ensure a smooth handover to the MSP.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) – Document your internal team’s existing IT procedures, including troubleshooting guides, password reset protocols, and backup routines.

3.  Selecting a Managed Service Provider

• Research Potential Providers – Research and shortlist potential MSPs based on their experience, size, and service offerings. Look for providers that specialize in your industry or business size.
• Request for Proposals (RFPs) – Develop an RFP outlining your needs and requirements. This will help you compare proposals from different MSPs and ensure they understand your expectations.
• Interviews and References: Conduct interviews with shortlisted MSPs and request references from their existing clients. This will give you a better understanding of their work ethic, communication style, and problem-solving approach.

4.  Internal Communication and Training

• Employee Communication – Communicate clearly with your employees about the upcoming transition to an MSP. Address their concerns and explain how the new system will benefit them.
• Internal Training – Consider providing basic training to your employees on interacting with the new MSP service desk or ticketing system.

5.  Contract Negotiation and Onboarding

• Negotiate the Contract – Carefully review and negotiate the contract with the chosen MSP. It outlines service levels, pricing, termination clauses, and data security protocols.
• Onboarding Process – Work closely with the MSP during onboarding to ensure a smooth transition. This may involve data migration, system access setup, and user account configuration.

By following these steps, you can prepare your organization internally for a successful transition to managed IT support.

Where Magellan Solutions Can Help?

Wouldn’t having a reliable partner handle your ever-growing IT needs be helpful? Fred Chua, CEO of Magellan Solutions, emphasizes that “the key to successful outsourcing is finding a partner who truly understands your business.”  

According to Mr. Chua, Magellan Solutions doesn’t just fill roles; they take the time to understand your business goals, challenges, and even culture. 

He continues, “Without a deep dive into your company’s scope, expectations, objectives, vision, and mission, it’s not an ideal outsourcing partnership. It needs to be a collaboration.”

As your managed IT support and services partner, here are some key areas where we can provide valuable assistance:

1. Network and System Monitoring

A dedicated team at Magellan Solutions monitors your network 24/7, identifying and resolving potential issues before they disrupt your workflow. They utilize remote monitoring and management platforms to ensure smooth operation and minimize downtime proactively.

2. System Design and Upgrades

Staying ahead of the technological curve is an advantage for businesses today  We collaborate with you to understand your unique needs and goals.

Leveraging our expertise in industry trends, we recommend and implement system upgrades, ensuring your technology remains current and gives you a competitive edge.

3. Security Management

Cybersecurity threats are a constant concern. We provide a layered defense, including regular software patching, system maintenance, and advanced security solutions to safeguard your data and infrastructure from evolving cyberattacks.

4. Backup and Disaster Recovery

Data loss can be catastrophic. We design and implement robust backup solutions to protect your critical information. We can help you recover your data quickly and minimize downtime in a disaster.

5. Compliance Management

Compliance regulations can be complex and ever-changing. With our in-depth knowledge of data security standards, we can streamline your compliance efforts and help you mitigate risks associated with client information, payments, and other sensitive data.

6. Analytics and Reporting

Data-driven decision-making is essential for business optimization. We provide insightful reports and analysis of your network performance and key performance indicators (KPIs). 

Through analytics and reporting, you’ll be able to identify areas for improvement to optimize your workflows for greater productivity.

Navigate IT Challenges With Magellan Solutions!

A reliable and secure IT infrastructure is no longer a luxury for a growing business—it’s a necessity. With Magellan Solutions as your managed IT support and services partner, we arm you with a team of experts and cutting-edge tools to streamline operations, bolster security, and drive efficiency. 

As our CEO often states, “Our customized approach makes Magellan stand out from the crowd of “one-size-fits-all” outsourcing companies. We commit to providing quantifiable results based on customer requirements while adapting our knowledge to various circumstances. Magellan’s strategic outsourcing model is top-notch, prioritizing understanding and trust amidst dynamic operations.”

Contact us today, and let’s see where we can help!