There are numerous types of IT Support Services in Mansfield, and you must ensure that the one you select will appropriately support your company's unique requirements. You may have heard terminology like “break/fix” or “managed service,” which all refer to different types of assistance.
When looking for IT Support Services, it's important to know the distinctions so you can make an informed selection and select the right supplier and service. We've put together this handy guide to help you analyse your alternatives so you can rest easy knowing your company is fully backed in the event of an IT disaster.
Break/Fix It Support Method (Traditional)
Break/Fix is the traditional IT supportit model, which means that if you (the client) report a problem, the IT support provider will fix it. This is normally charged on a time and materials basis, so if the problem is more difficult to remedy, you may be charged more.
Depending on the supplier, you'll either be charged on a Pay As You Go basis or a block of hours in advance, which will be depleted with each fix performed on your behalf.
Choosing this option implies accepting the risk of downtime and repair costs, which, depending on the size of your operation, could be more expensive than a Managed Services model.
IT Services and Managed IT Support
A Managed IT Support company is one in which the client agrees to pay a monthly fee that covers a variety of services. Among them will be:
- An IT Support Helpdesk
- Comprehensive monitoring of your IT systems to detect early warning indications of oncoming problems, allowing the provider to intervene and remedy the problem if necessary.
- Advice on Strategy
- Malware and antivirus software protection
- Software Updates & Patch Management
- Backup and provisioning management
- Mobile Device Management
- Reports on the state of the IT system
You may also have a Service Level Agreement with your provider, which will specify a maximum response time based on the severity of service requests.
In most cases, a Managed Services of local IT companies Plan will cover all support as part of the monthly charge. Make sure you contact with your provider to fully understand what is and is not included, as you may be charged a hefty cost for anything that isn't deemed part of the support package.
Look for anything like a “Change Request” in the policy materials, since this could be a separate charge.
Fees may be charged per person, per device, or for larger operations, a “fully managed service” will be supplied, depending on your company's needs and the breadth of the assistance. When picking a service model, it's critical to compare suppliers carefully to ensure you're comparing apples to apples.
The IT Service Provider assumes all risk related with the cost of downtime and repairs under this approach. This could lead to a faster resolution of difficulties, as it is in the best interests of the service provider to resolve concerns as soon and completely as feasible.
Break/Fix Services are best suited to businesses that:
- Don't rely on IT equipment and systems to run your business (they won't stop working without them).
- Have 10 or less users who can “get by” with a staff member who is minimally knowledgeable about IT.
- Are you willing to cover the additional costs of downtime and repairs?
- Are they able to afford to wait for a technician to react to their request?
Managed Services are best suited to companies that:
- They want a monthly charge that is predictable and fixed and covers all they need to support their IT systems and devices.
- You require immediate, priority access to IT technicians during agreed-upon hours.
- Can't afford to hire an in-house IT expert?
- Do you need access to a fully staffed and capable IT department?
- Do you want a Service Level Agreement that is guaranteed?
- Want to keep an eye on their IT infrastructure to avoid any mishaps and minimise downtime?
Still debating your options?
If you are still unsure which option is correct for your business, simply reach out to us at Chameleon Support today on 0115 736 5073 and we can walk you through which would be the best-suited package for you and your company’s specific needs. We hope that the explanations we've provided have helped you make an informed decision, but if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
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