by Jarom Renfeldt
Every growing business has challenges. One significant challenge is scaling and managing Information Technology and support while reducing costs. A managed services provider can help leverage best in class hardware, software and niche technology while providing consistent IT budgeting so the business effectively pays for only what they use.
A managed service agreement is suite of services to monitor, maintain and repair of the IT system designed to keep your network and business running smoothly. By bundling or packaging the services together, a business will get more and better IT services at a better price.
Managed service agreements typically include:
Administrative Module – Monitors the system 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, plus communicates and predict problems, and proactively repair the inner workings of the system. Provide administrative support for licensing, and communication to IT vendors. This should include a client portal for transparency and accountability.
Security Module – Protects against hackers, malware, viruses, spam, or even internal threats. It is crucial to maintain a strong firewall to protect your business information.
Disaster Recovery – Ensures your data is completely safe and backed up providing your business with a continuity plan.
Help Desk Support – Answer user questions and manage all your work stations. This should include remote assistance.
On-Site Consulting – Plan a strategy to meet the businesses current and future IT needs. This includes creation of IT roadmaps, budgets, niche technology needs and best practices.
Server/Work Station Maintenance – Maintains the actual hardware and software of workstations and servers. Like a car, your IT system needs ongoing maintenance.
Data Migration – Moving and securing your data with minimal to no downtime.
The result of any managed services agreement should be minimal disruption, minimal downtime and maximum efficiency. When in doubt, seek a reputable, professional IT services provider.
Jarom Renfeldt is the founder and President of JR-Tech, an IT services leader, serving businesses in the Inland Empire for over 10 years.
Jarom has written the book, ‘Business IT 101: the business owner’s guide for finding hassle-free computer support’ educating business owners to leverage technology for competitive advantage and growth of their business. Contact Jarom at JR-Tech.com or (951) 319-4040.
- The Business Technology Roadmap - November 1, 2014
- Business IT – Covering Your Most Important Assets - October 3, 2014
- Business IT – Managed Services 101 - September 5, 2014