What SMBs Should Expect from their Managed IT Provider (and at what cost)

Written by Tomas Cruz // Director of Imaging Sales | Mar 21, 2023 6:54:43 PM

Should SMBs work with Managed IT Providers?

When people hear "managed IT provider," they usually assume it's only for the big dogs handling complex issues. But actually, small to medium-sized businesses can benefit from investing in a managed IT partner as well. Take a look at our list below to see how an SMB can benefit from partnering with a managed IT provider.

Cost-effective: A managed IT provider provides access to new technology a IT expertise without the cost of hiring a full-time in-house IT staff.
Increased efficiency: Partnering with a Managed IT company allows SMBs to concentrate on core business activities while their IT infrastructure is being handled by knowledgeable experts.
24/7 Monitoring: A managed IT partner will monitor systems to detect and address potential issues before they become large, expensive problems.
Elevated security: Managed IT providers can implement and manage advanced security measures to protect SMBs' data and networks against the increasing number of cyber threats businesses are facing today.
Scalability: As a business grows, their IT needs will grow and change. A managed IT provider can help to scale IT infrastructure to meet their evolving needs while implementing new technology.
Expertise: Managed IT providers have the knowledge and experience to provide organizations with advice on the latest technology trends and how they can be leveraged to improve their business operations.

How much money should an SMB spend with a managed IT provider?

The amount of money that an SMB should spend on a managed IT provider depends on multiple factors, including:

business size
complexity of needs
specific services required

Generally, SMBs can expect to allocate between 3% and 6% of their annual revenue to IT services, including their Managed IT provider. Every business is unique, so take a good look at your budget and figure out what works for you.

Although the initial cost may seem daunting, the return on investment can be substantial in terms of increased efficiency and decreased downtime. The cost of a single cyber attack is far more expensive then finding the right managed IT provider. It's a worthwhile investment that can ultimately lead to the growth and success of your business.

Should I buy my office equipment from my managed IT provider?

Now that you have a managed IT provider, it's a good time look at where you're purchasing your office equipment (or vice versa). Whether or not to purchase your office equipment from a managed IT provider depends on several factors, including the type of equipment needed, the cost, and the level of service you'll receive from your provider.

Here are some things to consider:

Type of equipment: Many managed IT providers may specialize in certain types of equipment or brands, while others may offer a wide range of options. If the equipment you need is not available from your managed IT provider, it may make more sense to purchase it elsewhere or see if your managed IT provider has a comparable piece of equipment.
Service level: If your managed IT provider is also selling office equipment, it's important to understand the level of service they will provide. Will they handle installation, maintenance, and repairs? What is their response time for service requests?
Integration: If you are using a managed IT provider for other IT services, purchasing office equipment from them may simplify integration and support.

Working with a managed IT provider can be a game changer for SMBs, allowing them to save money, improve their operations, and stay ahead of the competition. A reliable provider will work with businesses to create a tailored plan that fits their unique needs and budget.

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