Do Businesses Really Need Outsourced IT Companies?

Scott Starost • Apr 19, 2018

Do businesses really need outsourced IT companies or IT support companies to grow their business?

While an in-house IT helpdesk or support department could be more familiar with the daily happenings of your company, great IT support companies can close the gap fast. Besides, an in-house IT person, helpdesk or support team will cost a pretty penny – setting one up – maintaining it – and create additional employer overhead expenses. That’s precisely why so many organizations are turning to outsourced IT companies. Here are some of the reasons why many businesses now have outsourced IT support.

Talent Pool and Management

The number one reason why more companies are turning to Managed IT Services for technical support is that they gain access to a pool of top talent at an affordable value. When you choose to hire an in-house IT person or build a team, it’s difficult (if not impossible) to foresee what kind of talent you might need in the near future. Additionally, there costs involved to expand the skill sets of your employees. You’ll need to make sure these employees receive continued education, and you’ll also need to purchase, upgrade, and maintain a variety of hardware and software.

All of these factors are no longer the responsibility of the business when using 3rd party to support your business’s technology. In addition , adding more employees creates additional overhead expense on the business as a whole increasing employer taxes, health care costs, employee benefits, and risk.

On the other hand, a Business IT support company removes all of the additional overhead expense listed above with their services and typically cost a fraction of bringing it all in-house. As mentioned, you will have access to an entire team of IT Professionals. IT companies also known as Managed Service Providers (MSPs) have an incentive to maintain certified technicians and encourage their engineers to continually gain more certifications to be competitive. This means you’ll save money and gain access to an entire team of skilled, certified IT professionals. Here is our latest blog on 5 reasons you don’t need an in-house IT support person.

Better Security

Unless your company specializes in Information Technology (IT), there’s a very good chance that mistakes will happen – especially at first – that could create risk for your company’s information and operations. What’s more, the number of ransomware attacks is on the rise across the globe, and these can certainly leave your company vulnerable.

Many businesses still think that ransomware or being a target of hacking will not happen to them for a number of reasons. I can assure you that assumption is just wrong. Cyber Security is a threat to all businesses. With over 800 average complaints a day the annual cost to victims in 2016 was $1.33 Billion. Discover why hackers are really interested in your business.

In addition, there have been recent USA government changes to DFARS requiring government contracts to secure their business technology before 2018.

When you hire a qualified Managed IT Service Provider for Business IT support, you’ll get access to experts who understand the techniques used by hackers. See our latest scam of the week blog here. Managed IT Service providers that have developed a cybersecurity practice will discuss with you the best ways to protect your business and make your business less attractive to the bad guys. This means you’ll be far more protected from the start. Also, if a security breach should occur, these professionals’ experience will allow them to resolve those issues with minimum impact to your business and in a timely manner.

More Productivity

Running a company is hard work. You need to focus on your customers, the products, and services you offer – not the functionality of your computers, servers, or the security of your network. When you outsource your Business IT support, you and your employees will have more time to focus on the overall customer experience, which will ultimately influence your success.

The more productive your employees, the more revenue you can generate. Of course, the peace of mind that comes with having experienced professionals handling your business IT support needs is also a boost to your confidence and productivity.

A good Managed IT Services company should be meeting with you monthly and quarterly to stay aligned with your business’s needs and goals. These meetings also provide both the business owner and IT company an opportunity to provide and receive valuable feedback on the services being provided. Are you asking yourself this question?  How do I pick an IT support company to support my business?

Disaster Recovery

Disaster can strike at any time and in several ways. For example, your server room could flood, your building could catch fire, or a cyber-attack could take you offline and even destroy your data. Impacts to your business such as these have a tremendous impact on your revenue or whether or not you stay in business. Fortunately, there are many technologies available that will allow you to get back on your feet quickly and not lose revenue. Great Managed IT Service Companies stay up-to-date with these technologies and will make recommendations to safeguard your corporate data. You can rest assured that your data is in good hands, even following a disaster.

Companies of all types and sizes can benefit from engaging with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) in a variety of ways. It saves you money, it provides you with 24-hour access to some of the brightest and most knowledgeable professionals in the industry, and it even frees up more of your time to focus on your customers, which helps to ensure your success.

If you would like to learn more about our FREE no-obligation network & security health check,  Click Here to schedule your technology health check . An experienced business consultant will reach out to learn more about your business.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in February 2017 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Fort Wayne Indiana downtown
05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.
06 Dec, 2023
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
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