Is Your Business Ready for Managed IT Services? Recognising the Signs.
In today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape, it’s crucial for businesses to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to managing their IT infrastructure. According to a recent Globe Newswire article, it’s projected that by 2025, at least 60% of organisations worldwide will rely on Managed Service Providers (MSPs), with the industry’s annual revenues reaching a staggering $393.72 billion. Although the concept of MSPs emerged in the 90s, it’s in the 2000s and beyond that this industry has truly come into prominence.
Tech Target Network defines a Managed Service Provider as a third-party company that remotely manages a customer’s IT infrastructure and end-user systems. In an era where cyber threats continue to proliferate, the traditional “break-fix” model of calling in experts only when problems arise is no longer sufficient. The statistics speak for themselves:
- Cyberattacks occur approximately every 39 seconds.
- A staggering 95% of cyberattacks result from human error.
- In 2021, cybercrime cost the United States an estimated $6.9 billion.
- Globally, around 30,000 websites are hacked each day.
- Small businesses are the target of 43% of cyberattacks.
- Shockingly, only 5% of company folders and files are adequately protected.
This last statistic alone should be a compelling reason for every company to consider partnering with an MSP. However, there are several other compelling factors to keep in mind.
MSPs offer a range of invaluable services to small and medium-sized businesses, as well as non-profit organisations. These services include network and infrastructure management, security and monitoring, and employee training – a critical area where most breaches occur, often due to human error.
Data breaches surged by 68% from 2020 to 2021, with cybercriminals increasingly targeting smaller businesses. Moreover, mobile phones now account for 60% of cyber fraud cases. In this context, the idea of navigating the complexities of IT infrastructure alone or relying on the outdated “break/fix” model becomes increasingly untenable. Engaging an MSP ensures proactive monitoring and peace of mind.
The benefits of using an MSP are multifaceted, including cost savings, improved efficiency, and access to best-in-class resources. MSPs often possess tools and processes that can help their clients thrive. Even organisations with an in-house IT expert can benefit from collaborating with an external MSP to achieve optimal results.
So, is an MSP the right choice for your business? Here are some key indicators that suggest you should consider partnering with an MSP:
- Lack of Dedicated IT Resources: If your company lacks a dedicated IT person or team, or relies on a multitasking IT technician, an MSP can fill this crucial gap.
- Dependency on a Single IT Expert: If your dedicated IT person seems overburdened and you worry about the consequences if they were to leave, an MSP provides continuity and support.
- Limited Focus on IT Security: If you don’t have someone constantly researching the latest software, patches, and protection strategies, your business is at risk.
- Ignorance of Cyber Threats: If you’re not up-to-date on the newest cyber threats, an MSP can help safeguard your systems from evolving risks.
- Neglect of Employee Training: Without someone dedicated to cyber training, your organisation is vulnerable to the 90% of hacks attributed to human error.
- Technical Problems: Frequent technical problems or downtime are signs that your IT infrastructure needs professional management.
- Inadequate Network Knowledge: If you’re unsure about all the devices accessing your network, it’s time for expert assistance.
- Unclear IT Expenses: If maintaining your infrastructure is becoming a costly and unpredictable affair, MSPs offer cost-effective alternatives.
- Compliance Challenges: If staying compliant with industry regulations is a headache, an MSP can help navigate complex compliance requirements.
- Poor Network Performance: If your system’s network performance leaves much to be desired, an MSP can optimise it for you.
- Reactive Rather Than Proactive: If you find yourself constantly reacting to IT issues rather than proactively preventing them, it’s time to consider an MSP.
In an era where keeping pace with software changes and cybersecurity threats feels like a full-time job, it’s essential to free up your time to focus on growing your business. Let us take IT off your to-do list and ensure your organisation remains secure and agile in the fast-paced world of technology.
Contact us today for more information on how we can help – email info@hbtech.co.nz or phone 0800 423 834.