WHAT IS “MANAGED IT?”
WHICH IT SERVICE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
BREAK/FIX SERVICES vs MANAGED SERVICES
but when you need a technical support partner,
you should know your options
Break / Fix Support:
The days of traditional “computer guy” support have evolved and IT support has been maturing into two camps: Break / Fix has become the name for traditional support, where something breaks and you call someone to come fix it. The technician’s primary concern is to solve the problem at hand so they can be paid. Longer term goals and the overall health of the rest of your network are not usually a concern. After the problem is solved you’re billed for the service call and the transaction is over. This type of support relationship is based around a fee for a service, and there is a place for it, but there is a better way.
Managed Services:
Similar to how a Dentist treats all the teeth in your mouth as a unit; the IT provider takes responsibility for the entire network, including data management, security, compliance, performance, software licensing, user management and more. The provider actively services and maintains the health and security of this unit as a whole. The term ‘Managed Services’ means the provider is deploying software on your network for monitoring and managing your systems. This software monitors and reports back to the provider at regular intervals with key metrics. “Managed Services” is a much broader role than “computer guy,” and the role implies a trusting relationship that allows them to manage your IT health while you manage your business health.