When Should a Company Outsource IT Services?
There are plenty of reasons why companies opt to outsource at least a few of their IT functions. Businesses depend on technology to keep things running smoothly and staying ahead of the race is necessary especially in today’s ever-evolving world of IT.
But how would you know that it’s time to outsource your IT?
Signs Your Company Should Outsource IT Services
Spending too much on IT
Having an in-house IT department can get quite expensive. Recent statistics show that 45% of companies who outsource their IT do so to save money and 46% say that outsourcing enables them to access certain skillsets that an in-house IT cannot provide.
In-house IT who has specific skills will demand higher compensation. On top of this expense is the cost of implementing IT infrastructure, specifically with hardware and software.
Outdated System
Is your IT lagging?
Technology changes constantly and it’s evolving at a rapid pace. If you don’t have the right resources to swiftly update and adjust your system to adapt to these changes, then your business performance will be affected.
Outsourcing your IT services to professionals can give you access to the latest technology that would help you run your business more efficiently.
Your System is Vulnerable to Cyber Threats
The top concern for most companies is security. If you don’t regularly update and monitor your system, you will always be vulnerable to cyber threats (e.g. ransomware). Incidents like this can cause major damage to your business.
If your company isn’t prepared for such type of cyberattack, then outsourcing can make a huge difference. IT companies will help you have the best security solutions suited for your business along with other services to continuously protect your business from threats.
IT is Affecting Your Business Operation
If you are taking so much time operating and maintaining your IT system, you will lose focus on achieving your business goals. In today’s digitally fast-paced world, time is very important, and you'd want to ensure you’re spending it on the core of your business operation.
This is how outsourcing plays a major role because you will get a team of experts with various skills to manage your IT functions, giving you the time to focus on your business and not think about any IT-related issues.
What IT Service Can You Outsource?
An outsourced IT service provider will have full responsibility when it comes to your IT maintenance and support. However, organizations have the option to use one or more providers depending on their needs.
Here are some common IT functions that you can outsource:
- Application support or management
- Help Desk or Technical Support
- Web Hosting
- Database Management and Development
- Telecommunications
- Hardware, Software and Network Installation and Support
- Disaster Recovery
- Incident Response
- Data Centre Management
- Cloud Services
- Email Management
- Cybersecurity or Threat Protection
Different types of IT Outsourcing:
Offshore Outsourcing: Typically involves sending IT-related work to companies located in a foreign country like India or the Philippines where the cost is low, and the economy is more favorable.
Domestic Outsourcing: Involves hiring an external IT service provider in the same country to work remotely or on-site.
Cloud Computing: This means employing an external IT service provider to deliver IT service over the internet, such as Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS).
Managed Services: Involves hiring a third-party resource to provide network management services such as VPNs, firewalls, VoIP, and more.
There are multiple reasons why businesses choose IT outsourcing. If your IT needs become overwhelming, you must do what is best for your company. Contact us today and learn how we can help you.