When you need IT help, there are two basic options to consider: break-fix or managed services. These two options are very different, therefore when choosing which IT service type, you would like to go with, it is important to know what can be expected with each method.
Break-fix IT, also referred to as "on-demand IT support" means you are paying for an IT servicer to come in only once an issue arises. There are no fixed costs associated with on-demand IT outside the scope of specific IT project management services.
A scenario that would best call for break-fix would be if you were working on a document and your computer shuts down. You would then call your outsourced IT provider to fix your computer, and you would be charged for this service after it was resolved. Break-fix is a very basic approach to dealing with networks or IT problems.
Networks are getting more complex. As a result, companies find it harder to manage their users' needs. They struggle to find the time and resources to keep their systems secure on their own.
Not having a managed service to watch over company systems can increase the risk of breaches and security threats. The break-fix method doesn’t manage any of the very complex network systems that exist within many companies. This is likely why it's common for smaller businesses with fewer resources to devote to information technology.
Break- fix is becoming a less popular method because many businesses are choosing to take a more proactive approach to their IT strategies.
If you're not worried about ongoing IT support, break-fix may be right for you. You can use break-fix and do not need to worry about paying monthly fees or committing to a contract. You will only be required to pay when you request IT service and receive it.
Break-fix is not a fixed cost. You will be charged only when an issue occurs and you need servicing, which means it is likely not in the budget or planned for. It is based on the amount of time that it takes to fix the issue and you will be charged on an hourly basis.
Having unpredictable monthly costs can make it difficult to budget for long-term IT expenses. You also may run into other unexpected hidden costs relating to larger network problems that on-demand support can't resolve. These issues can leave you with a lot of downtime, which can in turn cost you money and loyal customers.
Managed services are another method to help keep your network running smoothly. The difference is that rather than simply fixing things when they break down, managed services are continually monitoring the network to catch an issue before it arises.
Partnering with a managed IT service provider will also help you plan projects and infrastructure upgrades to increase productivity, instead of trying to figure out what to do on your own. This proactive approach is often suited well for organizations that want to invest in their network and pay for peace of mind.
With managed services the costs are predictable because you are informed of the set price you will pay each month. This cost will be included in a contract that you must sign, ensuring that the costs and fees cannot unexpectedly change.
This makes it much easier to budget for. Having managed services also means your network hardware is upgraded to a regular cycle. Software is always checked to make sure that is up-to-date and running faultlessly.
With up-to-date software and constant monitoring, managed service providers can prevent security threats or breaches on your network. The management of your network will be fully taken care of and out of your hands so you can focus on your business.
Although you will receive stability in your budget, your network support comes with something that might scare some business’s, a contract. This can seem like too much of a commitment for some people to make, especially if you find yourself with an unqualified managed service provider.
For this reason, before committing to these contracts, it is important to make sure you have thoroughly researched your managed service provider prior to making any long-term commitment to ensure you are fully confident in the decision. Ask for references. Your business is worth the time investment.
Both break-fix and managed services are similar in that they are both providing a form of servicing on your network and IT infrastructure to make sure it is working properly.
The biggest difference is, when working with an outsourced IT provider they dig a little bit deeper into your IT process than simply starting and finishing a project with break-fix.
Being aware of the different outsourced IT pricing models is very important when choosing the right fit for your company. What kind of company you hire is just as important as who you choose as your partner for IT network services.
You will want to do research and make sure the outsourced provider is reliable and will use the best solutions for your network. Local IT services tend to serve clients more effectively than international providers due to the many barriers of fully remote IT services.
Read more about local vs non-local IT support in our blog: Local vs Non-Local IT Providers: Which Can Meet Your Business IT Needs?
There are countless IT services offering a wide range of expertise to small business clients. A few core offerings to look for in a quality provider include:
If you're ready to explore the possibilities for optimizing and securing your IT environment, click the button below to get in touch with an experienced IT professional.