Why a scalable, standardised and managed system works?
In a nutshell – because that’s how the big boys do it! Standardisation, scalability and pro-active management of infrastructure is considered best practice in the IT industry. This approach is used in large corporations because it is efficient and therefore cost-effective. It also enables proper control over the use of equipment, safekeeping of data, protection against cyberattacks and seamless business disaster recovery if something goes wrong. If this works for large businesses, why use an expensive, customised, ad hoc break-fix IT support model for your business?
Let’s explore these concepts further
How is this model scalable?
As your business grows, your IT needs will change. In a scalable model, building blocks can be added or changed without disrupting the system, so there is no need to start from scratch every time your circumstances change or to live with inefficient, outdated infrastructure.
For example
- Additional components can be added, e.g. adding offsite backups in addition to onsite backups or adding more storage modules when you run out of space.
- One building block can be replaced with a larger or stronger version, e.g. leasing a more substantial server or more powerful firewall (UTM) when the number of employees increases.
- Moving seamlessly between cloud-based and on-premise infrastructure.
Why do the building blocks have to be standardised?
Every business needs the same building blocks in their IT infrastructure, albeit to varying degrees. Some might need a faster server, while others might need more storage. Some employees need the mobility of a laptop, whereas others need a more powerful desktop machine, but they all need workstations. Everyone needs backups, etc., etc.
We have carefully selected a range of options for each of the building blocks, using reputable suppliers that offer enterprise grade products, while providing good value for money. This cuts down the time spent on investigating customised, individual solutions and reduces the risk of buying incompatible devices or parts, which leads to a more cost-effective service.
Why managed?
Managed IT support works because a stitch in time saves nine!
A break and fix model for IT support typically involves purchasing hardware and/or software from a supplier and then contacting said supplier whenever issues arise with the hardware and/or software. Resolving these issues is then charged at an hourly rate. (Examples include helping a user who forgot their password or updating an outdated antivirus after malicious software has already caused damage to a machine, which of course includes restoring the device to its original working condition.) Sound familiar…?
This model can incentivise technicians to spend more time in order to bill more hours and leads to haphazard and reactive support, which typically neglects monitoring, early detection of potential issues and preventative maintenance.
Under a managed IT support model, servers and workstations are monitored, allowing potential issues to be identified and resolved proactively before they cause damage. (For example, a deteriorating hard drive will be detected before it fails, thereby preventing data loss.) Business-critical information (like data recovery keys and processes for supporting your network) is stored in a safe but accessible place. Last but not least – we include all-you-can-eat support – so there is no additional hourly charge.