What Are Outsourced IT Services?

Outsourced IT services are when you hire an outside company like New Era Technology to handle your IT needs. A managed service provider (MSP) can cover everything from the security of networks and the implementation of operating systems, to the installation of software and the backup of files. 

Note that outsourced IT services are not just break/fix services. A break/fix technician comes to you when something is broken, charging an hourly fee to diagnose and fix the problem.

A break/fix service might seem less expensive since you only pay when you have a problem, but it’s likely to be more costly in the long run. They have little to no incentive to work quickly or make a stable fix since they get paid more if it takes them a long time or multiple trips to repair something.

4 Commonly Outsourced IT Solutions

An MSP can handle numerous solutions within these two categories. Here are four of the most common:

1. Network Security

One of the most significant benefits of outsourced IT services is security protection. When you hire an MSP, you have ensured network security against cyber attacks. An outsourced network security solution can help protect your school from malware, viruses, phishing attacks, hacking attempts and other online threats. Off-site IT companies specialise in this area and are always up-to-date on the latest security measures, always staying ahead of the parties that wish to attack.

With an MSP, you get the following security benefits:

• Perpetual monitoring and system reports
• Maintenance notifications and security alerts
• Proactive breach prevention

2. Network Implementation & Maintenance

For most schools, the tasks involved with implementing and updating system programs can be time-consuming and confusing. With an MSP at your service, you do not have to worry about it. Offsite IT services specialise in the implementation of computing and mobile networks and the integration of software programs. Managed service providers handle these sorts of tasks on a daily basis and can implement programs in just a fraction of the time it would take to achieve in-house. 

3. Onsite and Off-site Support

When issues arise on-site, an outsourced IT service will walk your staff through the trouble. Whether the issue involves confusion over a system update or problems with network synchronisation, your team will have access to support from IT experts who know how to solve each and every computing issue that could arise. Many MSPs also have access to a support help desk for quick off-site support.

4. Technology Strategy Development

Many school districts today require sophisticated technology solutions to run their schools and education departments effectively. Having a strategy in place is therefore very important. A MSP has the necessary expertise to guide your school in the best technology strategy for your goals. A Managed Service Provider may also help with your school’s technology procurement. Finding the best technology suited to your school, within your school’s budget.

What size does a school need to be to outsource its IT?

There is no specific size a school needs to be in order to benefit from outsourcing its IT. Smaller schools with limited resources may find outsourcing IT services especially beneficial as they may not have the budget or staff to handle technology needs in-house. Additionally, they can access a broader range of technology services and solutions they could not afford or justify maintaining in-house.

Larger schools also can benefit from outsourcing IT services as it can help them to manage the complexity and scale of their technology infrastructure, keep up with new technologies, and ensure compliance with regulations.