What Are the Challenges of Nederland Managed IT Services?
In a short decade, technology, as we know it, has changed drastically. Just look at the number of devices you use alone. You likely had a few computers, a printer, and an email program. Now? You’re accessing information in the office, at home, and even on the go via mobile devices, laptops, and tablets that have various applications downloaded onto them. In the simplest terms, technology has given us more capabilities than ever – but it’s also brought some challenges alongside it in terms of management and maintenance.
Although managed IT services are a great investment for companies that want to keep their technology functioning properly, it’s always better to go into a big change well-aware of the potential issues. If you’re considering investing in managed IT services, you’re likely already aware of the benefits:
- Greater uptime
- More security against threats
- Less operational costs
- More productivity throughout the team
- And much, much more
We’re huge proponents of managed IT services. After all, we’ve been in the industry since 1988. But here’s the thing… Not all managed IT service providers (MSPs) are the same. Sometimes, the MSP you choose creates more challenges than you’d otherwise face. It’s only fair that we’re honest and forthcoming about the challenges that happen in the industry.
A Few Of The Most Common Challenges
Downtime throughout the transition
This is particularly true if you’re switching from an internal person or break/fix IT company over to an MSP that doesn’t have a proper onboarding process in place. If your current support person or team owns the hardware or holds any critical information, such as login information or documentation, they will need to transfer that information over to the MSP.
Typically, a good MSP will work with your previous provider to ensure minimal downtime throughout the transition. They have a process in place for this type of situation and know how to onboard you seamlessly.
Misalignment in terms of organizational objectives
Whenever you’re changing up the way your information technology is managed, it’s vital to ensure the new MSP is well-aware of your organizational objectives so they can align your hardware, software, and processes with your overall strategy to achieve the desired results. A good MSP will have a discussion about your organizational objectives prior to taking over the responsibility of maintaining your environment.
Implications for data governance and/or confidentiality
If you’re operating in an industry or jurisdiction with specific data governance and/or confidentiality regulations, you can’t pick any MSP and call it a day. It’s important to work with an MSP who understands them and will put the right security solutions and/or processes in place. It’s helpful to find an MSP that knows your industry inside and out – specializing in serving those operating in your industry. This way, you can rest assured knowing they will have you covered with robust protection.
Differences in company values, beliefs, and culture
Every company has its own unique values, beliefs, and culture. Whenever you’re working with third-party organizations, it’s important to make sure their values, beliefs, and culture are closely aligned with your own. For instance, if you’re all about ensuring accountability in everything you and your team do, but your MSP doesn’t value this and do the same, you’re bound to have disagreements.
Resistance from the internal technology person or department
If you’re working with an internal technology person or department and you’re hiring an MSP to offload some of their responsibilities, you may experience some resistance on their part. This is especially true if they’re not involved in the decision to outsource part of your information technology functions beforehand. A good MSP will be well-versed in easing any tension and making your internal person or department feel comfortable.
How To Find An MSP That Alleviates These Challenges
The challenges listed above shouldn’t make you hesitant to outsource to an MSP. Instead, they should make you more “picky” so to speak. An MSP can deliver a tremendous amount of benefits in terms of streamlining your day-to-day operations with technology that works properly, but you need to find an MSP that knows what they’re doing. When you’re searching for an MSP, look for the following:
- A detailed service level agreement (SLA) that outlines their response times, help desk hours, uptime commitment, and your termination rights.
- A wide range of services, including cloud solutions, strategic planning, cybersecurity, network design, and more.
- A long-standing reputation with clients who would be willing to speak with you about their experiences.
- A team of experts who have experience in various technologies and/or certifications in various technologies.
Get Started With Managed IT Services
Since 1988, Discovery IT has been serving companies of all sizes throughout the Southeast Texas Region. We know technology and we do it well. We’ve built a solid reputation within our community because we provide quality managed IT services that alleviate the common challenges businesses experience when outsourcing. Get started now and enjoy hassle-free managed IT services that deliver a range of benefits – from lower costs to greater security to streamlined efficiency and everything in between.
Click here to get started or call us at (409) 727-7080.
