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. The MSP 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. 

Many organizations rely on 1-2 person “break/fix” vendors who don’t have all the skills or bandwidth to do much more than fix problems and fight fires as they occur. “Break/fix” simply means that your IT vendor 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. 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. 

VC3 instead proactively manages your IT by performing ongoing system and application maintenance, providing 24/7 helpdesk support, and billing monthly so that your IT costs are controlled. 

Some of the benefits associated with managed IT services include: 

• Predictable monthly IT costs and flat-fee billing
• Operational efficiencies
• Minimal downtime
• 24-hour support services
• Advanced cybersecurity protections
• Proactive network monitoring
• Preventative network maintenance
• Regular software updates
• Regulatory compliance assistance 

The hardest part about evaluating different managed IT service providers is that they all define “managed IT” a little bit differently. Here are some guidelines for your conversation: 

• Does the provider talk about business results? A managed IT services provider should be ultimately focused on helping you use IT to meet your business goals.
• Does the provider have a proven process? Anyone can provide services, but it’s how services are delivered that affects results.
• Is the provider open about what’s included - and what’s NOT included? No one likes surprise charges.
• Do they provide a comprehensive IT department, or are they just handling pieces? Either situation can be fine, but you'll want to be clear about the arrangement ahead of time.
• Do they look at IT as a whole, whether you outsource all of IT to them or not? A holistic approach to IT ensures you get the business results you need. 

Pricing for managed IT support services varies greatly from provider to provider. Just as important as knowing your price is to understand exactly what your contract includes. The quantity of workstations, servers, and devices that are managed, and the level of service to be provided, are factors that guide pricing. Your pricing will generally be “per device.” Another factor that will affect pricing will be the complexity of your network. 

Related Resource: Managed IT Services Pricing Guide