Making the most of managed services

Running a business is like navigating a bustling marketplace — there’s always something happening, and you need to stay ahead to succeed.

Managed solutions offer a helping hand in this bustling environment. It can provide specialized support and expertise to streamline operations and drive growth.

According to Statista, the global managed services market is expected to grow into a multi-billion dollar industry. By 2028, we can expect to see it valued as much as US $26.7 billion.

Let’s explore how these solutions can benefit your business and discover what to look for in a managed service provider (MSP).

What are managed services?

Managed services refer to the practice of outsourcing specific business functions to a third-party service provider, known as managed service providers (MSPs).

These services are typically delivered through a subscription-based model, where an MSP assumes responsibility for managing and maintaining the designated functions. Clients are given the advantage of concentrating on their core business functions.

Outsourcing vs. Managed services

Now that we understand what managed services are, let’s compare them to the more traditional approach of outsourcing.

When outsourcing, businesses typically hand over an entire project to an external contractor. The contractor takes care of everything from start to finish, usually without much involvement from the business.

Managed services, on the other hand, allow businesses to maintain a level of control and involvement in the management of specific functions. This ensures that clients can align the outsourced services with their goals and objectives.

For example, a company needs to improve its customer support capabilities. While outsourcing the entire customer support department may seem like a viable option, it can be expensive and may not align with the business’s vision.

Instead, by opting for managed services, the company can select a specific customer support function. It could be something like ticket management, where the client can outsource just that aspect to an MSP.

How managed services drive business growth

Managed services can be a powerful tool for driving business growth. Here are a few ways in which they can contribute to your organization’s success:

Better cost control

Managed services can help reduce operational costs by eliminating the need for in-house staff, hardware, and software investments.

Leveraging the expertise of an MSP allows companies to access industry-leading technology and resources without the hefty price tag.

Refined efficiency

Organizations can tap into a wealth of specialized skills and knowledge that may not be available in-house. This allows for faster and more efficient completion of tasks, leading to increased productivity and improved outcomes.

Enhanced security

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, and businesses can’t afford to let their guard down. IBM’s report revealed that 51% of organizations are preparing to increase security investments.

MSPs have the expertise and tools to safeguard your firm’s data and infrastructure from potential threats. They constantly monitor for vulnerabilities and provide timely updates and patches to ensure optimal protection.

Eases growth and adaptation

As businesses evolve and grow, their needs change as well. Managed solutions let you adjust your resources as needed, so you’re only paying for what you really use.

Whether it’s additional storage capacity, increased network bandwidth, or expanded security measures, MSPs can rapidly adapt to meet changing requirements.

Things to look for in a managed service provider (MSP)

It’s crucial to choose the right managed service provider to partner with. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting an MSP:

1. Expertise and experience. Look for an MSP with a proven track record and industry expertise. A strong portfolio and positive customer reviews are indicators of a reliable provider.

2. Service level agreements (SLAs). Ensure that the MSP offers clear SLAs that outline the services provided, response times, and escalation procedures. This sets expectations and ensures accountability.

3.  Proactive monitoring and support. Choose a provider that offers round-the-clock monitoring and support to identify and resolve issues before they impact your business.

4. Security measures. With the rise of digitalization, security is paramount. Make sure your partner has robust security measures in place to protect your data and infrastructure.

5. Flexible pricing models. Compare pricing models to ensure that they align with your budget and business needs. Flexible options such as monthly subscriptions or pay-as-you-go plans offer scalability and cost-effectiveness.

Get tailored managed solutions from Booth and Partners

When it comes to selecting the right MSP for your business, Booth and Partners stand out as a leading provider.

This third-party services company has years of industry experience and a team of skilled professionals who specialize in offering tailored managed solutions.

Working with Booth and Partners lets you benefit from its expertise and dedication to personalize outcomes based on your company’s DNA. Its proactive approach, strong SLAs, and commitment to customer satisfaction set it apart as a trusted MSP.

Head over to Booth and Partners’ website to learn more about its managed solutions!