Managed IT Services
What is Managed IT Services?
Managed IT Services refers to comprehensive IT services that are provided by an MSP (managed service provider) for a fixed monthly rate.
With this model the MSP and the client share the same goal to have the IT function running smoothly. In order to do this the MSP assumes responsibility and provides unlimited support for designated aspects of IT, and the client organization commits to investing in the equipment and software that will improve the operation and security of their systems.
What You Need to Know About Managed IT Services?
One of the best ways to figure out if managed IT support is right for you is to compare it with its opposite. We’re referring to the break/fix model of IT support. This simply means that your IT company only responds when you have an issue. Something breaks. They fix it.
With a break/fix model, the more IT problems you have, the more money the IT company charges you and it’s not in their best interest to get to the root cause of your problems. In fact, they might not have the expertise or the time to accurately diagnose and present solutions for recurring issues.
What invariably goes wrong with the break/fix model is that technology frustrations build up. People avoid calling IT support because they don’t have confidence in the IT department’s ability to help. They make their own workarounds which often end up compromising security.
Your Role in the Relationship with a Managed IT Service Provider
As your provider commits to bringing you the expertise and specialized tools that are needed to establish best practices, you will need to commit to making the right IT investments that will continually improve your network.
Fortunately, managed IT services companies like Accent, also provide IT guidance as a part of their services.
Having access to an experienced IT advisor will help you to create a plan for IT improvement with a budget and priorities to steer you along the path to predictable IT.
These advisors help you to take into account all of the factors that might enhance or limit your success, so that you can be confident in your decisions.
All-Inclusive or Partial Managed IT Services
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
We offer all-inclusive and partial managed IT services to Southern California organizations that either don’t have the resources, or find it cost-prohibiting to staff and entire IT department, purchase and maintain expensive equipment, keep software systems up and running, manage security, and make executive decisions about complex subjects that affect the bottom line.
Some of the benefits associated with managed IT services include:
Predictable Monthly IT Costs
Operational Efficiencies
Proactive Network Monitoring
Desktop Optimization
Regular Software Updates
Reduced Costs in Flat-Fee Billing
24-hour Support Services
Minimal Downtime
Preventative Network Maintenance
How ATC Delivers IT Services
Each client has a designated support team that works collaboratively to deliver all of the services that are needed for a fully staffed IT department.
If you were going to do this yourself, you would need many different people with very different talents and skills to:
Manage your infrastructure.
Strategize, plan and budget for the future.
Resolve issues and take care of routine tasks.
Enhance the way your business uses technology.
Our services are structured so clients have all the resources they need for each discipline within the framework. Teams meet weekly to review client status and progress, and they own client success. The result is fast response when you need help right now and continuous improvement of the IT function in your business.
Instead of a necessary evil, technology becomes a competitive advantage.
The Connection Between Managed IT and Predictable Results
When you arrive at your office each day, you want your technology tools to work and you want them to be fast. The only way for that to happen is through proactive management. This includes not just management of your computers, but management of your whole network and the security of your systems and data.
Managed IT companies work with their clients to establish industry best practices that turn an unpredictable IT environment into a predictable one.
Some examples of best practices are:
Creating a multi-layered cyber defense
Establishing appropriate data backup and recovery procedures
Establishing a refresh cycle for hardware
24/7 monitoring for errors
Consistent updating of software and operating systems
Monitoring and controlling internet bandwidth
Reviewing user permissions and access
Making sure your systems are optimized for performance