The business world today revolves around technology. However, managing IT services can be a daunting task for many organizations. According to a report by Gartner, businesses lose an average of $5,600 per minute due to IT downtime.
This underlines the urgency of overcoming IT managed services challenges. “In the evolving business landscape, failure to address IT managed services challenges is not just a setback; it’s a severe blow to an organization’s growth trajectory,” says Name, Designation of SynchroNet.
In this blog, we’re going to look at the 10 common IT managed services provider (MSPs) challenges businesses face. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll know what to look out for when turning to MSPs, and how to find a capable IT partner for your business.
10 Most Common Managed IT Service Challenges Businesses Face
1. Inadequate Support and Response Times
As a business leader, you understand how crucial rapid response times are. Slow support from your managed services provider can result in business process delays and potential revenue loss. It can particularly frustrate remote workers. Proactive communication and clearly defined Service Level Agreements (SLAs) can significantly improve this scenario.
2. Sub-Par Technical Expertise and Knowledge
Possessing superior technical expertise is the crux of overcoming many IT managed services provider challenges. Lack of it can lead to insufficient problem-solving, causing extended downtimes. When selecting a provider, ensure they have a proven track record and industry certifications that demonstrate their proficiency.
3. Lack of Adequate Staff Capacity/Resources
Managed services providers must have ample resources to meet your demands. Shortage in staff capacity can lead to delays and unsatisfactory service. It’s critical to engage with a provider who can scale their resources based on your needs.
4. Inadequate Maintenance Strategies
A poor maintenance strategy can lead to increased system downtimes and reduced operational efficiency. Proactive maintenance, including regular software updates and hardware inspections, is key. Providers should also offer a solid disaster recovery plan to ensure business continuity.
5. Poor Compatibility with Existing IT Infrastructure/Applications
Compatibility issues with your current IT infrastructure can exacerbate managed services challenges. Work with providers who take the time to understand your existing systems and can integrate their solutions seamlessly.
6. Lack of Security Monitoring and Threat Protection
In the digital age, cybersecurity cannot be overlooked. Failure to monitor threats and implement robust security measures can expose your business to significant risk. Your managed services provider should offer comprehensive security solutions, including 24/7 remote monitoring and prompt threat response.
Key Managed Services Challenges and Potential Solutions
| Managed Services Challenge | Potential Solution |
|---|---|
| Inadequate Support and Response Times | Define clear SLAs |
| Sub-Par Technical Expertise and Knowledge | Ensure providers have relevant certifications |
| Lack of Adequate Staff Capacity/Resources | Choose providers who can scale as per needs |
| Inadequate Maintenance Strategies | Ensure providers offer proactive maintenance |
| Poor Compatibility With Existing IT Infrastructure/Applications | Work with providers who understand your systems |
| Lack of Security Monitoring and Threat Protection | Choose service offerings that provide robust security measures |
| Network Stability Issues/Outages | Select a provider that guarantees high network uptime |
| Inefficient Management of Hosted/Cloud-Based Services | Ensure seamless cloud service management |
| Poor Management of Sprawling IT Environments | Select a provider capable of handling expansive IT environments |
| Poor Customer Support and Communication | Look for providers offering regular updates and clear communication |
7. Network Stability Issues/Outages
Frequent network outages are detrimental to your business operations and customer experience. Choose a provider that guarantees high network uptime and has robust strategies to manage and quickly resolve outages.
8. Inefficient Management of Hosted/Cloud-Based Services
Poor management of hosted and cloud-based services can impede your business’ efficiency. It’s crucial that your provider delivers seamless cloud service management, from setup to troubleshooting.
9. Poor Management of Sprawling IT Environments
Managing expansive IT environments is among the primary IT managed services provider challenges. A competent provider should be able to efficiently handle multiple systems and platforms, ensuring your IT environment remains streamlined and productive.
10. Poor Customer Support and Communication
Effective communication is vital to a successful partnership (and is often a challenge with managed services providers). Providers who lack in this area can lead to misunderstandings and service gaps. Regular updates, clear documentation, and prompt responses are hallmarks of good customer support.
Address These Managed Services Provider Challenges With The SynchroNet Way
The future of business is digital, and this journey begins with confronting and navigating IT managed services challenges. Overcoming these common IT managed services challenges is essential for any business aiming for success.
That’s why we developed The SynchroNet Way, our way of ensuring you receive the services you expect and support you need to help your business thrive. Leverage proven services, rely on over 20 IT experts, and start seeing results from day 1, when you work with us.
Book a complimentary consultation to discuss your IT and learn how we can help you rise above managed IT challenges.
