Outsourcing means getting a job done by an external resource rather than your own employees. When it comes to IT, there are two main ways to do this:
- Project-based outsourcing: This approach involves hiring a vendor or contractor for a specific IT task, like moving to the cloud, providing after-hours help desk or offering a set amount of monthly support. These are often called “break-fix” solutions because they focus on fixing existing problems or filling a particular need. However, they don’t proactively address your overall IT and cybersecurity needs.
- Managed IT services: Partnering with a managed service provider (MSP) is a more comprehensive approach. Beyond project expertise and help desk support, an MSP actively works to prevent problems from occurring in the first place. Think of them as your 24/7 IT team, constantly monitoring and maintaining your network to ensure smooth business operations.
