In many companies today, employees and leaders alike feel like managing information technology is holding them back. You see what competitors are working with, and you’re worried you’re falling behind. You’ll never catch up. Most days, you spend more time trying to get your software to do what it’s supposed to than you do on real work.
Unreliable, outdated, and poorly integrated systems lead to tons of duplicated tasks, confusion, inefficiency, and tension among management and staff. Some days, it’s infuriating. How are you supposed to train and retain good employees? They bounce as soon as they see the dysfunctional technology infrastructure they’re expected to work with.
Learn more about MSP vendor management.
This isn’t how technology should be.
Photo 121274023 / Technology © Alexandersikov | Dreamstime.com
When IT is working within a company, it supports employee performance rather than hindering it. It helps you meet business goals consistently and cost-effectively. Technology becomes an invisible force shaping your success.
When it’s not working, most often it comes down to a major misconception you’ll want to clear up before you can get down to the business of managing IT.
Contact TenisiTech today for a complimentary consultation.
The Misconception about IT Support
When you think of IT management, chances are fixing and supporting computers and software comes to mind. So… resetting passwords, installing updates, opening tickets with the helpdesk, am I right? But the old days of Managed IT Services have passed.
Technology is integral and inseparable across industries and business sizes. Successful businesses have undergone a digital transformation that creates seamless harmony among technology, your people, business operations, and customers.
So, sure. IT still does the above things.
They provide all the hands-on support you and your people need. But these are only the most basic aspects of IT. They represent some of the more reactive responsibilities.
Sometimes leaders set up IT for a more reactive team approach, often due lack of expertise regarding what makes IT effective.
Within this IT model, the team puts out fires that don’t exist when we take a more proactive approach to IT. This more proactive approach better represents what Information Technology Services should be today.
For many businesses, an outsourced IT team most sufficiently meets this need. That’s true whether you need support for personal computers, business process engineering, or IT consulting.
Leadership should always be proactive–not just solving problems and, instead, helping you meet business goals.
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What Managing Information Technology Looks Like
Managing Information technology should be about two things:
- Keeping employee and customer data safe
- Leveraging technology to improve the employee experience
Notice, we said employee experience… not customer experience. That’s because when you improve employee experience, they naturally improve customer experience. A Gallup Poll found that employers with highly engaged employees have 20% higher sales.
When it comes down to it, as we support our clients, we believe the feelings employees have about technology is as important as its function.
But let’s face it: You don’t “feel” technology or even think much about it most of the time. When everything is working as it should, technology is invisible. They just come in and engage in day-to-day operations. They’re productive.
Employees only “feel” technology when something isn’t quite working as expected. During these times, emotions like resentment and frustration creep in. That destroys your employee morale.
A proactively run IT team supported by a dedicated helpdesk can influence how your employees feel about technology. And, by extension, how they perceive the company they work for.
What does it take to be an IT manager?
10 Areas of Expertise Needed for Information Technology Management
Modern IT services management has different practice areas, requiring different experience levels and expertise in:
Strategic Leadership
In today’s dynamic business environment, strategic leadership plays a crucial role in guiding organizations through complex challenges and changes. One area that strategic leaders often consider is the outsourcing of key business functions, such as IT services. Outsourcing IT services can bring about various strategic advantages for organizations, aligning with their long-term goals and vision.
Outsourcing as a Strategic Decision
Outsourcing certain functions, including vendor management, can be a strategic decision for organizations aiming to streamline operations, reduce costs, and access specialized expertise. Strategic leaders recognize that effective vendor management is vital to the success of outsourcing initiatives, and it can offer several benefits to the organization.
Benefits of Outsourcing Vendor Management
When it comes to strategic leadership and outsourcing vendor management, there are several noteworthy benefits to consider:
- Improved Communication and Coordination: Outsourcing vendor management ensures efficient communication and coordination between the organization and its technology vendors, allowing for smoother operations and reduced project delivery delays.
- Leveraging Past Experience: By entrusting vendor management to an experienced IT services provider, organizations can benefit from their expertise in negotiating contracts and SLAs, resulting in cost savings and better value for services rendered.
- Staying Current with Technology: Outsourcing vendor management enables organizations to stay up-to-date with technological advancements and industry best practices, ensuring competitiveness and agility in the technology landscape.
- Enhanced Performance Management: An outsourced IT services provider assumes responsibility for overseeing vendor performance and compliance with SLAs, minimizing downtime and maximizing IT operational efficiency.
- Risk Mitigation: Outsourcing vendor management can help mitigate risks associated with vendor relationships, such as vendor lock-in, by diversifying vendor partnerships and maintaining a vendor-neutral stance.
Strategic Implications
From a strategic leadership perspective, leveraging outsourced vendor management can optimize IT operations, allowing organizations to focus on driving growth and innovation. Strategic leaders recognize the importance of aligning outsourcing decisions with the organization’s long-term strategic objectives, ensuring that outsourcing initiatives contribute to the overall success and competitiveness of the organization.
Conclusion
In conclusion, strategic leadership involves making informed decisions about outsourcing initiatives, including vendor management. By leveraging the expertise of outsourced IT providers in managing vendor relationships, organizations can optimize their operations, reduce risks, and focus on strategic initiatives that drive long-term success.
Industry Compliance
Misunderstandings or delays in project delivery can be avoided by entrusting a dedicated team to manage vendor relationships. This allows businesses to concentrate on their core activities without being encumbered by vendor-related issues
Capitalizing on Past Experience
Delegating vendor management enables a business to utilize the provider’s expertise in negotiating contracts and service-level agreements (SLAs). Seasoned IT service providers possess a profound understanding of industry standards and can negotiate favorable terms aligned with the business’s objectives, thereby minimizing risks and yielding cost savings.
Staying Current with Compliance
Outsourcing vendor management empowers businesses to remain abreast of the latest technological advancements and industry best practices. IT service providers continuously monitor the market for emerging trends and innovations, ensuring the business’s compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Improved Performance Oversight
Vendor management by an outsourced IT services provider enhances accountability and performance monitoring. The provider takes on the responsibility of overseeing vendor performance, ensuring SLA compliance, and promptly addressing any arising issues. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and optimizes the efficiency of IT operations, contributing to industry compliance.
Risk Mitigation
Outsourcing vendor management aids businesses in mitigating risks associated with vendor relationships, such as vendor lock-in or reliance on a single vendor. By diversifying vendor partnerships and maintaining a vendor-neutral stance, the IT services provider can offer impartial recommendations and solutions tailored to the business’s compliance requirements.
In Conclusion
By leveraging the capabilities of an outsourced IT provider to manage vendor relationships, businesses can streamline their IT operations, ensure industry compliance, and concentrate on driving growth and innovation.
Vendor Management
Outsourcing IT services has become increasingly common for organizations, both for-profit and non-profit, looking to streamline operations, reduce costs, and access specialized expertise.
One crucial aspect of MSPs (Managed Service Providers) is effective vendor management. By entrusting this responsibility to an outsourced IT services provider, businesses can reap numerous benefits.
Here are 5 benefits to consider:
- Better Communication and Coordination
Vendor management by an outsourced IT services provider ensures efficient communication and coordination between the business and its various technology vendors. This facilitates smoother operations and reduces the risk of misunderstandings or delays in project delivery. With a dedicated team managing vendor relationships, businesses can focus on their core activities without getting bogged down in vendor-related issues.
- Past Experience
Outsourcing its vendor management allows a business to leverage the provider’s expertise in negotiating contracts and service-level agreements (SLAs). Experienced IT service providers have a deep understanding of industry standards and can negotiate favorable terms that align with the business’s objectives while minimizing risks. This results in cost savings and better value for the services rendered.
- Staying Up-To-Date
Furthermore, outsourcing vendor management enables businesses to stay up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and industry best practices. IT service providers are constantly monitoring the market for emerging trends and innovations, ensuring that the business remains competitive and agile in its technology landscape.
- Managing Performance
Additionally, vendor management by an outsourced IT services provider enhances accountability and performance monitoring. The provider assumes responsibility for overseeing vendor performance, ensuring compliance with SLAs, and addressing any issues that may arise promptly. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and maximizes the efficiency of IT operations.
- Risk Mitigation
Lastly, outsourcing vendor management can help businesses mitigate risks associated with vendor relationships, such as vendor lock-in or dependency on a single vendor. By diversifying vendor partnerships and maintaining a vendor-neutral stance, the IT services provider can offer unbiased recommendations and solutions that best suit the business’s needs.
Summary
By leveraging their outsourced IT provider’s capabilities in managing vendor relationships, businesses can optimize their IT operations and focus on driving growth and innovation.
Network & Server Architecture and Administration
Outsourcing IT services has become increasingly popular for businesses looking to optimize their operations while reducing costs. Among the most crucial aspects of outsourced IT services is the management of network and server architecture. To provide professional-grade network and server architecture and administration services, an outsourced IT services provider must possess a comprehensive set of expertise.
Below are 5 skillsets to look for:
- Network Design and Implementation
Proficiency in network design and implementation is one of the most important skillsets to look for. This includes a deep understanding of networking principles, protocols, and technologies. The provider must be adept at designing networks that are scalable, secure, and efficient to meet the unique needs of each client.
- Server Architecture
Additionally, expertise in server architecture is essential. This involves designing, configuring, and maintaining server systems to support the organization’s applications and data storage requirements. A thorough understanding of server hardware, operating systems, virtualization technologies, and cloud platforms is necessary to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
- Cybersecurity
A critical aspect of network and server administration is security. An outsourced IT services provider must have extensive knowledge of cybersecurity best practices and tools to protect the client’s network and servers from cyber threats. This includes implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, encryption protocols, and regular security audits to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
- IT Systems Optimization
Furthermore, proficiency in performance monitoring and optimization is crucial for maintaining the health and efficiency of the network and server infrastructure. The provider must be capable of monitoring network traffic, server resources, and application performance to identify bottlenecks and optimize system performance accordingly.
- Communication and Collaboration
Effective communication and collaboration skills are also essential for an outsourced IT services provider. They must be able to work closely with the client’s internal IT team, understanding their goals and requirements, and providing timely updates and support.
Summary
Providing professional network and server architecture and administration services requires a diverse skill set. By partnering with a capable and experienced outsourced IT services provider such as TenisiTech, businesses can ensure their network and server infrastructure is robust, secure, and well-maintained.
Application and Hardware Maintenance
Outsourcing IT services has become a strategic choice for many businesses looking to streamline operations and focus on core competencies. Application and hardware maintenance services stand out as a critical component for ensuring seamless business operations. However, delivering these services requires a specialized set of expertise and capabilities.
Ensure that your outsourced IT services provider has these 5 essential capabilities:
- Deep Bench in Software Applications and Hardware Systems
Your outsourced IT services provider must possess a deep understanding of the intricacies of both software applications and hardware systems. This includes knowledge of various programming languages, frameworks, and development methodologies for maintaining and troubleshooting applications effectively. Similarly, expertise in hardware maintenance involves familiarity with different types of hardware components, their functionalities, and troubleshooting techniques.
- Recent Technological Innovations
Staying abreast of the latest technological advancements is imperative for an IT services provider. Technology evolves rapidly, and outsourced IT service providers need to continuously update their skills and knowledge to address emerging challenges effectively. This includes understanding new software updates, security patches, and hardware innovations to ensure optimal performance and security for clients’ systems.
- Analytical Thinking
Problem-solving and critical thinking are important skills to have when providing IT maintenance services. IT environments can be complex, and issues may arise unexpectedly. A competent IT services provider must be able to diagnose problems accurately, devise effective solutions, and implement them efficiently to minimize downtime and disruptions to business operations.
- Creating a Partnership
Excellent communication and collaboration skills are essential for interacting with clients, understanding their needs, and providing timely updates on maintenance activities. Clear and transparent communication fosters trust and ensures alignment between the IT services provider and the client organization.
- Customer Service
A commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is essential. A professional IT services provider prioritizes delivering high-quality services that meet or exceed clients’ expectations. This entails adhering to industry best practices, following rigorous quality assurance processes, and continuously seeking feedback for improvement.
Summary
Providing professional application and hardware maintenance services demands a combination of technical expertise, adaptability, problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and a dedication to quality. At TenisiTech we embrace these qualities in supporting our clients.
Monitoring and Alerts
These days businesses are increasingly relying on outsourced IT services providers to ensure the smooth operation of their systems. Among the critical services offered by these MSPs (Managed IT Service Providers) are professional monitoring and alert services, which require a high level of expertise to execute effectively.
Below are 5 critical skills to look for:
- Monitoring Platform Experience Level
Expertise in various monitoring tools and technologies is essential. Outsourced IT services providers must possess in-depth knowledge of monitoring platforms capable of tracking the performance and health of diverse IT environments, including networks, servers, applications, and databases. A variety of tools are available to ensure the timely detection of issues and anomalies.
- Digital Transformation
Needless to say a deep understanding of IT infrastructure and architecture is indispensable. Providers must be skilled at configuring monitoring solutions to align with the unique requirements of each client’s environment. This includes setting up custom alerts, thresholds, and notifications tailored to specific performance metrics and business priorities.
- Analytical Skills
Expertise in interpreting monitoring data is vital. Simply receiving alerts is not sufficient; outsourced IT service providers must possess the analytical skills to discern meaningful patterns from the vast amount of data generated by monitoring systems. This involves the ability to differentiate between normal fluctuations and potential indicators of impending problems, enabling proactive intervention to prevent disruptions.
- Cybersecurity
The proliferation of cybersecurity attacks has made a comprehensive understanding of security principles and threats imperative. Monitoring for suspicious activities and potential breaches is paramount. Outsourced IT service providers must be proficient in deploying intrusion detection systems, analyzing security logs, and responding swiftly to security incidents to mitigate risks and safeguard sensitive data.
- Collaboration
Effective communication and collaboration skills round out the expertise required for professional monitoring and alert services. Providers must liaise closely with clients to understand their unique business objectives and translate technical insights into actionable recommendations. Clear and concise communication of alerts and status updates fosters transparency and trust between the provider and the client.
Summary
Providing professional monitoring and alert services demands a multifaceted skill set encompassing technical proficiency, analytical acumen, cybersecurity expertise, and effective communication. By leveraging these capabilities, TenisiTech plays a vital role in maintaining the stability, security, and resilience of our clients’ IT ecosystems.
Helpdesk & Desktop Support
A robust helpdesk and desktop support system is the backbone of seamless operations. Outsourcing these crucial services to a proficient IT partner, like TenisiTech, ensures a responsive and efficient support structure for end-users.
Here are 5 key aspects to consider:
- Timely Issue Resolution
An outsourced IT services provider specializing in helpdesk and desktop support helps businesses excel in delivering prompt solutions to end-user issues. This includes troubleshooting hardware and software problems, addressing connectivity issues, and providing guidance on utilizing various applications. Quick problem resolution minimizes downtime and keeps the workforce productive.
- User Training and Empowerment
Beyond issue resolution, effective user training is vital. A reputable IT services provider invests in empowering end-users with the knowledge and skills needed for optimal system utilization. This not only enhances productivity but also reduces the frequency of support requests by fostering a more tech-savvy user base.
- Proactive Maintenance
Prevention is key to maintaining a stable IT environment. Outsourced helpdesk and desktop support services include proactive maintenance measures such as software updates, security patches, and system optimizations. This proactive approach helps prevent potential issues before they impact daily operations, contributing to a smoother and more reliable IT experience.
- Scalability
Businesses evolve, and their IT needs evolve with them. A proficient IT services provider understands the importance of scalability. Whether the organization is expanding its workforce or implementing new technologies, the helpdesk and desktop support services should seamlessly adapt to changing requirements without compromising on efficiency.
- User Satisfaction
Ultimately, the success of helpdesk and desktop support services is reflected in user satisfaction. A dedicated IT partner prioritizes user experience, ensuring that end-users receive not only technical support but also a positive and helpful interaction. This customer-centric approach fosters trust and enhances the overall perception of IT services within the organization.
Summary
Outsourcing helpdesk and desktop support services to a reliable IT partner allows businesses to elevate their end-user experience, streamline operations, and focus on core objectives. TenisiTech’s commitment to timely issue resolution, user empowerment, proactive maintenance, scalability, and user satisfaction makes it a trusted ally in optimizing IT support.
A Layered Security Plan across IT
In an era of escalating cyber threats, a comprehensive and layered security plan is non-negotiable for businesses of all sizes. Outsourcing IT security services to a specialized provider ensures a strong defense against evolving cyber risks.
Here are 5 crucial elements to look for in a layered security plan:
- Endpoint Protection
Securing endpoints, including devices such as computers, laptops, and mobile devices, is paramount. An outsourced IT security provider employs advanced endpoint protection solutions to safeguard against malware, ransomware, and other malicious activities. Regular updates and real-time monitoring enhance the overall security posture.
- Network Security
A layered approach to network security involves implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure Wi-Fi configurations. Outsourced IT security services encompass the design and management of a resilient network security infrastructure, ensuring that unauthorized access attempts are thwarted and data integrity is maintained.
- Data Encryption
Protecting sensitive data is a top priority. A proficient IT security provider employs encryption technologies to safeguard data both in transit and at rest. This adds an extra layer of defense, especially in scenarios where data is transferred across networks or stored in cloud environments.
- Regular Security Audits
Maintaining a secure IT environment requires ongoing assessments. Outsourced IT security services include regular security audits to identify vulnerabilities, assess compliance with security policies, and ensure that the security measures are aligned with industry best practices. Proactive identification and remediation of potential weaknesses enhance the overall resilience of the IT infrastructure.
- Employee Training and Awareness
Human error remains a significant factor in security breaches. A comprehensive security plan includes employee training and awareness programs. An IT security provider, such as TenisiTech, engages in educating the workforce on best practices, recognizing phishing attempts, and promoting a security-conscious culture within the organization.
Summary
Outsourcing IT security services to a provider with a layered security approach is instrumental in fortifying the organization against cyber threats. TenisiTech’s commitment to endpoint protection, network security, data encryption, regular security audits, and employee training ensures a comprehensive and proactive defense against evolving security challenges.
Enterprise Resource Planning
In the fast-paced world of business, effective management of resources is crucial for sustained growth and success. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems play a pivotal role in streamlining operations, enhancing efficiency, and fostering informed decision-making. Outsourcing ERP services to a seasoned provider, such as TenisiTech, ensures a smooth and effective implementation.
Here are 5 key considerations:
- Customization and Integration
Every business is unique, and an effective ERP system should be tailored to specific needs. An experienced ERP services provider excels in customization, ensuring the system aligns seamlessly with the organization’s processes. Integration with existing systems and technologies is also crucial for a cohesive and efficient workflow.
- Scalability
Businesses evolve, and so should their ERP systems. An outsourced ERP services provider understands the importance of scalability, ensuring that the system can adapt to changing requirements. Whether it’s accommodating an expanding user base, incorporating new functionalities, or integrating with additional modules, scalability is a fundamental aspect.
- Data Security and Compliance
The sensitive nature of ERP data necessitates robust security measures. Outsourced ERP services include implementing stringent security protocols to safeguard sensitive information. Additionally, compliance with industry regulations and data protection laws is a priority, ensuring that the organization operates within legal and ethical frameworks.
- User Training and Support
Maximizing the benefits of an ERP system requires a knowledgeable and empowered user base. An adept ERP services provider invests in comprehensive user training programs, equipping employees with the skills needed for optimal system utilization. Ongoing support and assistance further contribute to a smooth user experience.
- Analytics and Reporting
Informed decision-making relies on insightful analytics and reporting capabilities. A proficient ERP system provides real-time data analytics, customizable reports, and dashboards that empower management with actionable insights. Outsourced ERP services focus on delivering a robust analytical framework to enhance strategic decision-making.
Summary
Outsourcing ERP services to a reputable provider like TenisiTech ensures a tailored, scalable, secure, and analytics-driven solution. With a focus on customization, scalability, data security, user training, and analytics, TenisiTech plays a pivotal role in optimizing ERP for businesses, fostering growth and operational excellence.
Collaborative Solutions, including Remote Work
Modern businesses demand flexible and collaborative solutions to accommodate the growing trend of remote work. Outsourcing collaborative solutions, including remote work capabilities, to a forward-thinking provider like TenisiTech ensures a seamless transition to a flexible work environment.
Here are 5 essential aspects to consider:
- Cloud-Based Collaboration Tools
Enabling remote work requires robust cloud-based collaboration tools. An outsourced provider specializes in implementing and managing tools like video conferencing, file-sharing platforms, and project management systems. These tools facilitate effective communication and collaboration, bridging geographical gaps.
- Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure is crucial for a consistent and secure remote work experience. Outsourced services include the design and implementation of VDI solutions, allowing employees to access a virtual desktop environment securely from any location. This ensures uniformity and security across remote workstations.
- Security Protocols for Remote Access
Remote work introduces new challenges in terms of security. When considering remote work and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), this opens the door to many potential threats that oftentimes the user isn’t even aware of or knowledgeable on how to handle the threat. An adept provider implements stringent security protocols for remote access, including multi-factor authentication, secure VPN connections, and encryption measures. This ensures that data remains secure, even when accessed from various remote locations.
- User Training on Remote Work Best Practices
Transitioning to remote work requires a shift in mindset and work practices. Outsourced providers, such as TenisiTech, invest in user training programs to educate employees on remote work best practices. This includes guidelines on cybersecurity, effective communication in virtual environments, and utilizing collaborative tools efficiently.
- Scalable Infrastructure
The ability to scale infrastructure based on evolving remote work requirements is a key consideration. Outsourced collaborative solutions provide a scalable infrastructure that can adapt to changes in workforce size, ensuring that remote work capabilities remain efficient and responsive to organizational needs.
Summary
Outsourcing collaborative solutions, including remote work capabilities, to a provider like TenisiTech ensures a seamless and secure transition to flexible work arrangements. With a focus on cloud-based collaboration tools, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, security protocols, user training, and scalable infrastructure, TenisiTech empowers businesses to embrace the advantages of modern and collaborative work environments.
Many businesses today feel they have limited resources to allocate the IT, so hiring one IT person may seem the most they can do. But just take a look at everything that one person needs to know! {see above}
It’s rare for one person to be an expert in all of these, if not impossible. So hiring an “IT guy or gal” doesn’t work if you’re managing information technology.
It would help if you had a team. And, yes, when you outsource IT, every business can gain access to the expertise needed.
With a team, you get:
- Expertise across key areas
- Tactical and strategic planning support
- Availability 100% of the time – people need time off. An on-call rotation gives each team member the time they need to recharge, experience work-life balance, spend time with family, and function at their best. Say “No” to burning out your one IT person. Instead, you can work with a well-rested and responsive team ready to make a diverse set of skills and expertise available to you.
As an aside, burnout is a BIG PROBLEM in IT because so many businesses mistakenly think one person can do it all. Those in information technology often struggle to explain why this isn’t possible and one eager IT person may oversell the vastness of their expertise to show they meet job qualifications. But the secret is, when you outsource IT to a Managed Services Partner, it is possible to access all the areas of expertise you need for a reasonable price. That’s a win-win for both our techs and your business.
Book a no-obligation intro call today
Let us guide your IT in the right direction.
The 4 Roles Needed in Managed IT Services for Small Businesses
On your team, at minimum, you need these key players:
- An IT Leader – A person focused on strategy, comprehensive information technology and customer security management. These might include cloud computing, data management, ERP system. You may need a data warehouse, customer relationship management, etc.
- A systems administrator – A person focused on server infrastructure and application management. These could include security across all areas and escalations from day-to-day support
- A network administrator – A person focused on network architecture, network security, enterprise resource planning, and escalations from day-to-day support
- Day-to-Day support – People who handle information technology helpdesk, maintenance, and monitoring
These are the 4 corners of Managing Information Technology. Without these, computer systems don’t support your business strategies. Productivity and performance suffer. Once you have these in place, you’ll want to begin leveraging technology to grow your company. And guess what? Your outsourced information technology team should grow with you.
As companies grow, they need more support in those four areas, adding in compliance and internal audit support. So make sure that any outsourced IT you choose has this “next level” of expertise. Business growth is the goal. But outgrowing the company that manages information technology is a headache you don’t want to face down the road.
How to Manage IT
1. Outsource for Expertise
Demand for managed services has grown exponentially in recent years. Often times the latest technology is required to remain competitive.
Companies of all sizes in your industry are employing new technologies to compete with you and drain your market share.
These can include:
- Computer-aided design
- Big Data and Analytics
- Automation
- Machine learning
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Cloud computing
As competitors begin implementing game-changers like these, other companies are having to get creative to compete.
Managed Services Providers (MSPs) have staff with broad experience and technology access. Managed IT services for small businesses can deliver to smaller companies cost-effectively. That’s because they’re working with several clients and industries.
This efficient use of resources means they’re ready to tackle your IT problems anywhere but they’re not “sitting” on your payroll. Pay for what you need. Now, that’s the way to go.
MSPs have practice on massive projects. For example, an MSP has done dozens of cloud migrations to/from various platforms. An internal team doesn’t regularly get to do more than 1 of these at any given company during their tenure. That can make a big difference in how well your migration goes.
2. Stop Vetting Candidates Yourself
Do you really know what to look for in an IT leader? Like so many things, if you’re not in the IT world all the time, you don’t know what you don’t know, are we right?
The IT labor market is stretched thin. Hiring & recruiting for roles is difficult even with many candidates to choose from. Working with an MSP allows you to focus on hiring core business personnel. We handle hiring skilled technology personnel. It’s what we do!
So, don’t vet, interview, or hire candidates yourself for every role. Your MSP has the IT leadership experience and expertise to hire a team of top-notch professionals ready to take on your IT environment.
3. Stop Multi-Tasking
Finding a trustworthy partner allows you to focus on your core business requirements, not IT.
Focus on selecting one great IT partner that will lead everything IT. That leaves you to manage other business operations. Running IT organizations is what MSPs do, so the rest will fall in line if you’ve got the right partner in play.
4. Develop a Strategy, Roadmap, and Budget Aligned with Business Goals
This is critically important for running an IT practice in any company. If you don’t know where you’re going, you’re destined to be reactive, letting day-to-day requests determine what IT looks like. This leads to shadow IT.
What Is Shadow IT?
Shadow IT happens when people in different departments update and install technologies without IT oversight. When this occurs, the employees are frustrated and fed up. They don’t feel that IT or company management is solving their problems so they can do their job effectively. They start looking for their own solutions.
This can have major security, productivity, and fiscal impacts. Everything is disjointed. Employees experience a lot of needless extra work when trying to work across departments. The layered security approach you need to maintain data security becomes impossible in these settings.
We take a two-step approach to developing a strategy for our clients.
- Understanding the organization’s business goals. Which of those will require IT assistance with new or better IT?
- Understanding what exists in the information technology environment today. Then create an application inventory.
Our CIO advisory services and consulting work with you hands-on. We help you align your strategy with your goal and develop a clear and forward-thinking road map to get from here to there. We help you understand how technologies support your goals and which cloud services make the most sense for you.
5. Leverage Best Practices and Industry Standards
Your MSP should create IT policies according to best IT practice guidelines like:
- ISO 27001
- NIST
- CMMC
and industry-required regulations like:
- HIPAA
- SOC 2 Type 2
- SOX
Once these are identified, we can define which standards your company should drive towards. We can outline how we should build your IT infrastructure and manage it.
6. Create Operating Procedures that Align with Business Processes and Computer Systems
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are vital for regulatory compliance and employee experience. Your Outsourced IT partner works with leadership across your company. Together, we develop SOPs that work. We ensure that information technologies support rather than hinder SOPs.
7. Manage the Data / IT
Seamless information management and systems design are critical to performance. Data must remain secure but at the same time accessible to those who need it for their jobs.
Any aspect of IT that can be centrally managed should be. Make sure dashboards exist for antivirus, patching, encryption, and ticket statistics – just to name a few.
Yes, outsourced IT takes care of all of this so you don’t have to.
8. Manage Day-to-Day Requests
Understanding the types of tickets staff raise is just as important as monitoring the infrastructure. If you gain this understanding, leadership can add projects to the roadmap. We can address commonly experienced problems and issues, by stopping fires before they start.
A typical example of frequent tickets is password resets. We must balance security with productivity. If you know employees are struggling with the number of passwords in your organization, that’s wasting time. On top of that, a poor password infrastructure is a major security issue. People who can’t remember passwords write them down, significantly increasing the risk of a data breach.
As your IT partner, we find a solution and move toward implementing it. You could roll out a password keeper, configure a single sign-on with your directory services, or leverage another single sign-on tool like Okta or OneLogin.
A mindful and actively engaged outsourced IT team will look for opportunities like these. Over time, these will improve employee experience and security.
Outsourced Information Technology Management from TenisiTech
Managing IT and technology is hard enough. Developing a proactive plan to align business technology with business strategy– that’s even harder.
But with the right IT consulting and management partner, you can seamlessly integrate technology into business processes. We can develop an IT infrastructure that meets the needs of all business sizes and grows with you.
TenisiTech is this kind of partner.
We’ve been helping small businesses make the most out of established and emerging technology. We help them keep data secure while creating a positive employee-technology relationship. Whether you need whole new systems or are looking for an outsourced IT partner to help you make the most of your current technology, we encourage you to contact us here. Learn what’s possible when you have the right IT partner.