Why Business Leaders are Embracing Co-Managed IT

The contemporary business landscape is evolving rapidly. As businesses seek to streamline their operations and bolster their technical infrastructure, they increasingly recognize the limitations of traditional IT outsourcing models. In this metamorphosing arena, Co-Managed IT emerges as the beacon of change. Here’s a detailed look at why industry leaders are making the switch.

The Shift Towards Selective Outsourcing

Traditionally, businesses heavily relied on Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to handle IT functions. However, as companies grow, they often find that a one-size-fits-all outsourcing model doesn’t cater to their unique needs. Larger enterprises, particularly those with over 100 endpoints, require a dedicated internal IT squad. Yet, here’s the conundrum: while the IT demands of an organization expand, their budgets might not follow suit.

According to a report from Statista, there is a significant surge in the demand for managed services, reflecting the challenges organizations face in scaling their IT functions. The selective or co-managed model then becomes the logical solution. By adopting Co-Managed IT, businesses can have their cake and eat it too – they can retain an in-house team and outsource specific roles, ensuring holistic IT support within budgetary constraints.

Co-Managed IT: The Successful Transition

Step 1: Choosing the Right Provider

The pivot to a co-managed model begins with choosing the right partner. Here are vital considerations to ensure you land the best fit:

Diversify Your Evaluations: Engage with at least three providers. This variety allows you to assess different offerings and ascertain the best fit. Don’t just stop at one meeting; a second one can offer deeper insights.
Office Visits: The environment often reflects the ethos. A chaotic office might hint at organizational inefficiencies, while a structured setup could suggest professionalism and methodical operations.
Connect with an Engineer: Level 3 engineers, being relatively detached from the sales process, provide candid insights. Their feedback can offer a clearer picture of what to expect from the provider.
Prioritize References: Always seek references. Engage with existing clients of the MSP to get firsthand feedback on their experience.

Step 2: Defining Roles Explicitly

A co-managed IT model thrives on clarity. Clearly demarcate responsibilities to prevent overlaps and ensure smooth functioning. For instance:

Server Management: Should this be the domain of the MSP or the in-house team?
Backup and Data Recovery: Who takes the helm?
Help Desks: Which levels are managed in-house and which are outsourced?

Such clarity not only ensures operational efficiency but also cost-effectiveness. For instance, consider the task of data backup. Having a dedicated internal resource might prove expensive. On the other hand, overburdening existing resources might lead to critical lapses. Hence, outsourced expertise becomes invaluable.

Step 3: Seamless Onboarding

The transition to a co-managed model is crucial. While the sales pitch might be impressive, the onboarding process reveals the true colors of a provider. Key indicators to monitor include:

Adherence to Timelines: A delay in onboarding can hint at potential future lapses.
Communication: If a provider isn’t responsive during onboarding, it’s a red flag for future interactions.
Value Proposition: Does the provider offer genuine value, or are they more intent on upselling?

It might be time to reconsider if the onboarding experience is riddled with challenges. However, a smooth transition suggests you’ve made the right choice.

Bonus Tips for Co-Managed IT Success

Price Negotiation: MSPs often prefer Co-Managed IT as it allows specialization. This can sometimes lead to flexibility in pricing. However, focus on value rather than just cost.
Leverage Toolkits: Premium MSPs possess advanced tools that can be costly for in-house teams. Collaborate with your MSP to gain access to these, enhancing your IT capabilities.

In the current digital era, the right IT strategy can differentiate between success and obsolescence. With its blend of in-house expertise and outsourced specialization, Co-Managed IT offers businesses the perfect balance. With the right approach and a reliable partner, organizations can navigate the IT maze with confidence and efficiency.

Conclusion

The dawn of Co-Managed IT represents a transformative phase in business operations. As companies grapple with growing IT demands and budgetary constraints, this model provides a strategic edge, fusing the best in-house and outsourced worlds. By following a systematic approach, businesses can ensure a seamless transition, harnessing the power of cutting-edge technology while ensuring cost-effectiveness.