IT Support

Essential guide to outsourced IT support services for businesses

In this comprehensive guide, we're discussing outsourced IT support services, exploring their roles, types, and the benefits they offer to businesses. From choosing the ideal provider to understanding the top advantages, we aim to equip you with the essential knowledge you need to enhance your company's technological efficiency and security.
A photo of Ian Welch, who is a partner & technical director for Network

Written by

Ian Welch

Ian is the Technical Director @ Network and a certified ethical hacker (CEH), security professional (CISSP) and ISO27001 lead implementer with over 25 years experience.

Updated on

February 6, 2024

Outsourced IT support consultant discussing a project with a client

Key Takeaways

  1. Outsourced IT support services offer businesses cost-effective access to expert knowledge and the latest technological innovations, without the complexities of managing an in-house team.
  2. Selecting the right IT support provider hinges on their ability to offer customised, scalable solutions that align with your business goals.
  3. The top benefits of outsourcing IT support include enhanced focus on core business activities, risk management, and improved disaster recovery capabilities, crucial for today's digital business landscape.

What are outsourced IT support services?

In the business world, the concept of outsourced IT support services has gained significant traction. Essentially, this model involves engaging a professional IT company to manage and support your business’s IT infrastructure. Unlike an in-house IT team, an external team from a managed service provider brings a broad spectrum of expertise and resources to the table. It's a growing market, with outsourcing projected to reach over £500 billion in revenue.

Outsourced IT support services encompass a wide range of functions, from managed network services and disaster recovery to software updates and cybersecurity.

These services are tailor-made to meet the specific needs of your business, allowing you to focus on core activities while leaving the complex and often time-consuming task of IT management to dedicated specialists. From financial services to schools and the education sector, outsourcing IT support can offer a lot of benefits to every sector.

By outsourcing, you access a team of experts who are adept at handling a variety of IT challenges, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution for businesses of all sizes. If you're interested in learning more about how IT support costs are calculated, check out our detailed guide.

An IT support engineer working on a client request, typing on his keyboard

Do these technology challenges sound familiar to your business?

You're working with IT support that moves at a snail's pace, leaving you and your team hanging.

You’re worried your business is not fully prepared for the next major cyber attack.

You're frustrated that the business technology you've invested in isn't performing as well as it could be.

The importance of outsourced IT support services for businesses

The significance of outsourced IT support services for businesses cannot be overstated. For many companies, especially small businesses, maintaining an in-house IT team can be prohibitively expensive.

Not only does it involve high operating costs, but it also requires continuous training and development to keep up with the latest technology. Outsourced IT support offers a more cost-effective solution, providing access to a team with a broad range of skills and knowledge at a fraction of the cost.

Moreover, an outsourced support team, often part of a fully managed IT service, is always at the forefront of technological advancements, ensuring your business benefits from the latest IT solutions and security measures.

This proactive approach not only helps in maintaining the smooth operation of your IT systems but also plays a crucial role in safeguarding your business against evolving cyber threats.

Another key benefit of outsourcing your IT support is the ability to align your IT strategy with your business objectives. A service provider, often accompanied by a dedicated account manager, works closely with you to understand your specific needs and goals, offering bespoke strategies and frameworks to drive business growth. This partnership allows for greater flexibility and scalability, enabling you to adjust your IT services as your business evolves.

In conclusion, outsourced IT support services offer a range of advantages, from cost savings and access to expertise to enhanced focus on core business activities.

They provide a reliable and efficient way for businesses to manage their IT needs, ensuring continuity, security, and technological advancement. Whether you're looking to reduce costs, access the latest technology, or simply want to free up your team to focus on what they do best, outsourced IT support services offer a valuable solution.

What are the different types of outsourced IT services for businesses?

Outsourced IT services have evolved, ranging from fully managed IT solutions to specific, targeted support areas. Understanding the various types of outsourced IT services can help businesses make informed decisions that align with their needs and objectives.

Fully managed IT services

One of the most comprehensive forms of IT outsourcing is the fully managed service. This approach sees the service provider taking complete responsibility for a company's IT infrastructure. It includes proactive monitoring, ongoing maintenance, disaster recovery strategies, advanced cyber security and much more. By entrusting your IT environment to a dedicated team, businesses can focus on their core activities without the worry of IT-related issues.

Network and infrastructure management

Network and infrastructure management is a crucial aspect of IT services. This includes managing the hardware, software, and networks that keep your business running. From server management to ensuring robust cybersecurity, this type of service is vital for businesses that rely on a strong online presence or operate with a significant amount of digital data.

Cybersecurity services

In an age where digital threats are increasingly prevalent, cybersecurity services have become essential. Outsourced IT support teams specialise in protecting businesses from cyber threats through advanced security measures, regular system updates, and employee training programs. These services help businesses safeguard their data and maintain customer trust.

IT support engineer discussing a request with clients
An IT support engineer discussing a request with clients | Photo by Derek Coleman

Cloud services

Cloud services are another key area of outsourced IT support. These services range from cloud storage solutions to cloud-based software management. By leveraging the expertise of an IT company, businesses can utilise the latest technology in cloud computing to enhance accessibility, collaboration, and scalability.

Helpdesk support

Helpdesk support services offer a more reactive form of IT support, dealing with day-to-day issues as they arise. This service is vital for businesses without an in-house IT team, providing employees with immediate access to IT experts for troubleshooting and problem-solving.

IT consultancy

IT consultancy services involve strategic planning and advice to align your IT infrastructure with your business objectives. This type of service is beneficial for companies looking to upgrade their systems, implement new technologies, or streamline their IT processes.

Disaster recovery and business continuity

Disaster recovery and business continuity services are designed to protect businesses from significant IT failures or cyber incidents. These services ensure that critical data is backed up and can be quickly restored, minimising downtime and maintaining business operations under all circumstances.

Custom software development

Some businesses require bespoke software solutions tailored to their specific needs. Outsourced IT support can include custom software development, providing businesses with unique applications to enhance efficiency and productivity.

Hardware and software management

This service involves managing and maintaining the hardware and software components of a business's IT infrastructure. It includes regular updates, licensing management, and ensuring all elements are operating efficiently and securely.

In conclusion, the range of outsourced IT services available to businesses today is broad and varied. From fully managed IT services to specific areas like cybersecurity or cloud services, these offerings provide businesses with the expertise, technology, and support they need.

Whether it’s a small business looking to outsource its entire IT department or a larger company needing specialised support, there’s an IT service to meet every need. The key is choosing the right service provider who understands your business and can tailor their services to your specific requirements.

A business owner smiling while using an iPad tablet device

Looking for a major upgrade to your IT services?

Enjoy IT support that's always on standby, offering a personal touch that understands your business.

Get the peace of mind that comes with advanced cyber security, keeping your team and operations safe.

Benefit from a dependable and forward-thinking IT environment that drives your business forward.

Selecting the right outsourced IT support provider for your business

When choosing an outsourced IT support provider, it's crucial to select one that aligns with your business's needs and goals. Here is a list of key factors to consider:

  1. Expertise and experience: Look for a provider with a proven track record in your industry. Their experience should include managing IT infrastructures similar to yours and dealing with businesses of your size.
  2. Range of services offered: Ensure the provider offers a comprehensive range of services that cover all your IT needs, from cybersecurity to cloud services and helpdesk support.
  3. Customisation and flexibility: The best IT support providers offer custom solutions tailored to your specific needs. They should be flexible enough to adapt as your business grows and changes.
  4. Response time and support availability: Fast response times and round-the-clock support are essential. Ensure the provider can offer timely assistance when you need it most.
  5. Proactive approach: Look for a provider who offers a proactive approach to IT management, anticipating issues before they become problems and regularly updating your systems.
  6. Cost-effectiveness: Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of their services. This doesn’t always mean choosing the cheapest option, but rather the one that offers the best value for money.
  7. Client testimonials and references: Check testimonials and ask for references from other businesses that have used their services. This can provide valuable insights into their reliability and performance.
  8. Quality of account management: A good provider should offer a dedicated account manager who understands your business and can be your point of contact for all IT-related matters.
  9. Compliance and security: Ensure the provider is compliant with relevant regulations and standards in your industry. They should have robust security measures in place to protect your data.
  10. Scalability: The provider should be able to scale their services up or down depending on your business’s changing needs.
  11. Employee training and support: Find out if they offer training and support for your employees, helping them to make the most of your IT infrastructure.
  12. Reputation and stability: Research the provider’s reputation in the market. A stable and well-regarded company is likely to offer more reliable services.
  13. Technology and innovation: Choose a provider that keeps up to date with the latest technological advancements and can offer innovative solutions to improve your business operations.
  14. Exit strategy: Understand the terms of the contract, especially the exit strategy, in case you need to change providers in the future.

By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you can select an outsourced IT support provider that not only meets your current requirements but also supports your long-term business objectives.

The top 5 benefits of outsourcing your IT support

Outsourcing IT support can bring several advantages to your business. Here are five benefits worth considering:

  1. Enhanced focus on core business activities: Outsourcing your IT support allows your business to concentrate on core competencies and strategic goals, rather than getting bogged down by the complexities of IT management. This focus can lead to increased efficiency and productivity in your primary business operations.
  2. Access to the latest tech: IT support companies are often at the forefront of technological advancements. Outsourcing your IT needs means you get access to the latest technologies and innovations without the need for significant capital investment. This aspect is especially beneficial for small businesses that might not have the resources to constantly update their IT infrastructure.
  3. Risk management and compliance: IT providers are equipped to handle a wide range of compliance and security issues, reducing the risk associated with maintaining sensitive data and complex regulatory environments. They can ensure that your IT systems are in line with the latest legal and industry-specific compliance requirements.
  4. Scalability to match business growth: Outsourced IT support can easily be scaled up or down to match the pace of your business’s growth. This flexibility ensures that your IT capabilities can adapt quickly to changing business needs without the need for additional in-house recruitment or training.
  5. Improved disaster recovery and business continuity planning: Professional IT support providers typically have robust systems in place for disaster recovery and business continuity. This means that in the event of a major issue, such as a data breach or hardware failure, your business can recover quickly with minimal disruption.

These benefits highlight how outsourcing IT support can not only reduce costs but also add significant value to your business, allowing you to leverage professional expertise and advanced technology to stay competitive and resilient in a dynamic business environment.

Summary

Outsourced IT services offer a diverse and impactful solution for businesses, providing access to expertise, technology, and efficiency. They are key to streamlining operations and removing the stress of technology.

Are you experiencing the challenges of managing IT in-house? How could outsourced IT support transform your business operations and growth? We're keen to understand your unique needs and discuss how our services can be tailored to benefit your business. If you're considering outsourced IT support, don't hesitate to get in touch with us.