Managing your IT systems in-house can be complicated, especially if your team can’t cover the breadth of expertise and resources to address evolving technology challenges and security threats. This is where managed IT services come into play.

Not only do these services tackle the ever-changing technology landscape, but they also optimize the investments you’ve already made—particularly within popular platforms like Microsoft. By leveraging managed IT services, you can ensure your existing systems work harder for you, allowing you to focus more on your core business responsibilities with peace of mind, knowing your IT infrastructure is expertly managed.

What are managed IT services and what are their benefits? Below, we’ll answer these questions and explain how to select the right managed IT services provider for your business.

What Are Managed IT Services?

Managed IT services is the practice of outsourcing your IT strategy and service management to a third-party provider, known as a Managed Service Provider (MSP). These providers have a team of IT experts capable of delivering a wide array of IT services. While many MSPs offer fundamental services like network management and technical support, leading providers like AccountabilIT extend their offerings to include comprehensive solutions, like:

  • Network management
  • System monitoring
  • Technical support
  • Cloud services
  • Cybersecurity
  • Data backups
  • Disaster recovery
  • Vendor management
  • Compliance management
  • IT strategy and consulting

This breadth of services encompasses not only standard offerings but also advanced integrations like Microsoft suite optimization. AccountabilIT’s approach ensures you get maximum value from the tools already central to your business operations, such as those in the Microsoft suite.

By leveraging managed IT services, you can streamline your IT tasks, devote more time to your core business responsibilities and enjoy knowing that your IT infrastructure is meticulously managed.

6 Key Benefits of Managed IT Services

Managed IT services have become increasingly popular over the past decade. That’s because they offer a wide variety of benefits.

#1 Proactive protection

Before the rise of managed IT services, companies often sought IT support after it was too late. This reactive “break-fix” approach led to a lot of unnecessary disruptions and delays.

Managed IT services, on the other hand, take a much more proactive approach to IT management. Providers like AccountabilIT specialize in advanced systems, such as getting the most out of your Microsoft E5 licenses, to not only monitor but also maximize the value of your existing tech suite. Your MSP can monitor your servers continuously, address issues before they escalate and implement timely updates to mitigate security vulnerabilities.

#2 Cost efficiency and predictable pricing models

One of the primary benefits of managed IT services is their cost-efficiency. Partnering with an MSP is often much more affordable than building and maintaining an in-house IT department.

Since most MSPs charge a fixed monthly fee, managed IT services also offer more financial predictability than their break-fix counterparts.

Another way an MSP like AccountabilIT can save you money is by helping you realize savings by making full use of current investments, particularly within widely-used tools such as the Microsoft ecosystem, thus providing financial predictability and reducing redundant expenses.

#3 Access to around-the-clock expertise and advanced technology

Managed IT services give you access to a team of professionals with extensive IT training and expertise. These specialists are at your service 24/7, enabling you to obtain prompt IT support at all times.

MSPs also have access to cutting-edge solutions that may be outside of your budget. As a result, they can enhance your IT infrastructure’s performance, security and reliability more effectively than an in-house team.

#4 Enhanced security and compliance

Businesses today face significant threats from cyberattacks. In 2023 alone, over 2,000 cyberattacks took place, affecting more than 300 million individuals. Unfortunately, the frequency of these attacks is only increasing.

Recovering from cyberattacks can be disruptive and expensive. That’s why MSPs work hard to prevent attacks before they occur. By leveraging built-in security features from trusted platforms like Microsoft, AccountabilIT enhances compliance and protection efforts. Other strategies may include:

  • Backing up your data regularly
  • Installing antivirus software across your networks
  • Monitoring your systems continuously
  • Promptly addressing any signs of unusual activity
  • Maintaining up-to-date security patches
  • Educating your employees on the latest cybersecurity best practices

With this around-the-clock protection, MSPs can address security breaches right away and mitigate their damage. These support services can also strengthen your regulatory compliance, reducing your risk of legal fines and penalties.

#5 Scalability and flexibility

Managing your IT infrastructure may be feasible during the early stages of your business, but this can quickly change as you expand. Since MSPs can scale up their services with ease, they give your company the flexibility to grow and evolve.

#6 Restored focus on core business functions

Outsourcing your IT management to a team of skilled professionals can alleviate your workload considerably.

With service continuity as a focus, providers like AccountabilIT emphasize the importance of service portability and seamless transitions. They ensure that settings and configurations remain intact during provider changes, thus minimizing disruptions and maintaining operational stability.

With IT issues taking up less of your time, you can focus your attention on other areas of your business.

6 Types of Managed IT Services

  1. Managed networks and infrastructure oversee your network monitoring, service management and hardware maintenance to ensure everything runs securely and reliably.
  2. Managed support services (a.k.a Helpdesk) offer 24/7 support for IT-related issues, ranging from technical troubleshooting to password resets, minimizing your system downtime and enhancing your productivity.
  3. Managed cybersecurity services protect your IT environment from data breaches and cyberattacks by implementing firewalls, setting up intrusion detection systems and auditing your security on a regular basis.
  4. Cloud services and management optimize your cloud-based applications’ storage, computing power and management.
  5. Disaster recovery and business continuity help your business bounce back after unforeseen events, such as cyberattacks or natural disasters, by restoring critical business functions and data as quickly as possible.
  6. Software as a Service (SaaS) management handles the deployment, management and optimization of your SaaS applications, enhancing their functionality and user experience.

How to Select a Managed IT Service Provider

Given technology’s crucial role in your business, you need to choose your MSP with care. Here are five factors to consider when selecting an MSP for your business:

  • Industry expertise – Look for an MSP that has a proven track record in your industry.
  • Integration with existing tools – The ability to integrate with existing tools, particularly within platforms like Microsoft, is a critical factor.
  • Clear service level agreements (SLAs) – Always request a written SLA to ensure the MSP delivers on its promises.
  • Security standards and compliance – Your MSP should adhere to strict security standards and compliance requirements relevant to your industry.
  • Size of personnel – Your chosen MSP should have enough staff to handle complex IT challenges.

AccountabilIT: Proactive & Personalized Managed IT Services

Thanks to their many benefits, managed IT services are a must for modern businesses. If you’re searching for a reliable managed IT services provider, look no further than AccountabilIT.

AccountabilIT is your go-to partner for managed IT services, offering proactive and personalized solutions tailored to modern business needs. By making the most of the tools you already use, like the Microsoft E5 suite, we help integrate systems seamlessly and cut down on redundant expenses. This approach enhances value and ensures continuous service that adapts to your business’s growth trajectory.

Unlike typical service providers, AccountabilIT excels in forming genuine partnerships. We prioritize transparency and open financial practices, ensuring there are no surprises when managing your IT budget. This emphasis on honesty and clarity helps foster enduring and trusted relationships with our clients.

Contact us today to learn more about our award-winning managed IT services and schedule an initial consultation with our team.