Is your business struggling with frequent technology problems that disrupt operations? Are you finding it increasingly difficult to keep up with cybersecurity threats while managing day-to-day IT needs? The consequences of inadequate IT support can be devastating – from costly downtime and data breaches to frustrated employees and dissatisfied customers.
Our IT managed services team can help you manage these challenges with customized solutions tailored to your specific business needs.
What Are Outsourced IT Support Services?
Outsourced IT support services involve hiring an external company to manage your organization’s technology needs. Unlike traditional break/fix services that only respond when something breaks, managed service providers (MSPs) establish ongoing partnerships with businesses to proactively monitor, maintain, and optimize IT systems.
When you work with an MSP like CMIT Solutions, you get comprehensive IT support through a subscription-based model. This approach shifts the focus from merely fixing problems to preventing them before they impact your business.
Small to mid-sized businesses often benefit most from outsourced IT support, as building and maintaining an in-house IT department requires significant investment in personnel, training, and infrastructure. However, businesses of all sizes can leverage outsourced IT to complement existing resources or fill specific expertise gaps.
💡 Did you know? IT outsourcing has evolved significantly over the past decade. What began primarily as a cost-cutting measure has transformed into strategic partnerships focused on enabling business growth and innovation. According to various surveys, 78% of businesses now cite access to specialized expertise as their primary motivation for IT outsourcing, compared to just 45% citing cost savings.
Additional reading: staff augmentation vs managed services
What IT Services Can Be Outsourced?
Nearly every aspect of your business technology can be effectively managed through outsourced IT support:
- Network security and monitoring
- Cloud computing and storage solutions
- Hardware and software management
- Help desk and technical support
- Disaster recovery and business continuity
- Application management and support
- IT strategy and planning
| Service Type | Typically Outsourced | Typically Kept In-House |
|---|---|---|
| Network monitoring | 24/7 proactive monitoring | Basic device management |
| Cybersecurity | Advanced threat detection and prevention | Security awareness training |
| Software management | Updates, patches, and licensing | Core business applications |
| Hardware support | Procurement and maintenance | Employee device assignment |
| Help desk | Technical troubleshooting | Basic user support |
| Data backup | Cloud backup and disaster recovery | Local file management |
| Strategy | Technology road mapping | Business-specific IT initiatives |
CMIT Solutions provides comprehensive services including:
✓ 24/7 network monitoring and management
✓ Proactive security monitoring and threat prevention
✓ Data backup and disaster recovery
✓ Cloud services and solutions
✓ Help desk support for all employees
✓ IT consulting and strategy planning
Not sure if your business is ready for outsourced IT services? Take our IT Service Provider Compatibility Assessment to evaluate your current IT situation and determine if partnering with an MSP like CMIT Solutions is the right move for your business.
Outsourced IT Services for Small Businesses
Small businesses face unique challenges when it comes to technology management. Limited budgets, lack of specialized expertise, and the need to focus on core business functions can make effective IT management particularly difficult.
Outsourced IT services provide small businesses with enterprise-level technology support at a fraction of the cost of maintaining an in-house team. This democratization of technology gives small businesses the competitive edge they need to succeed in today’s digital marketplace.
Consider the situation of a growing accounting firm with 15 employees. Their existing IT setup consisted of a patchwork of solutions implemented over time, with no central management or security strategy. The owner was spending hours each week troubleshooting technology issues instead of focusing on clients. After partnering with an MSP, they gained:
- Standardized, secure technology infrastructure
- Proactive monitoring that prevented 90% of previous issues
- Strategic guidance for technology investments
- Enhanced security protocols that protected sensitive client data
- Support for remote work capabilities
- 15 hours per week back in productive time
The U.S. Small Business Administration emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity for small businesses, noting that 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses, yet only 14% are prepared to defend themselves (Source: SBA Cybersecurity Resources).
Additional reading: technology upgrades
Advantages of Outsourcing IT Services
Cost Savings and Predictability
One of the most compelling benefits of outsourced IT is the shift from unpredictable capital expenses to manageable operational expenses. Instead of large, irregular investments in infrastructure and emergency repairs, you pay a consistent monthly fee that covers your technology needs.
⚖️ At CMIT Solutions, our clients typically save 25-45% on their overall IT costs after switching to our managed services model.
Access to Specialized Expertise
Technology is constantly evolving, and staying current requires continuous learning and development. Outsourced IT providers employ specialists across various technology domains, giving you access to a depth and breadth of expertise that would be impossible to maintain in-house.
Enhanced Security and Compliance
With cyberattacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, businesses need robust security solutions more than ever. MSPs like CMIT Solutions implement multi-layered security strategies that protect your business from threats while ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
When disaster strikes—whether it’s a natural catastrophe, hardware failure, or cyberattack—having comprehensive backup and recovery systems in place is critical. Outsourced IT providers implement robust business continuity solutions that minimize downtime and data loss.
Scalability and Flexibility
As your business grows, your technology needs evolve. Outsourced IT services scale with your business, providing the flexibility to add resources, support additional users, or implement new technologies without significant delays or capital investments.
| Business Size | In-House IT Costs (Annual) | Outsourced IT Costs (Annual) | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (1-10 employees) | $85,000-$150,000 | $24,000-$48,000 | 60-75% |
| Medium (11-50 employees) | $150,000-$350,000 | $60,000-$180,000 | 45-60% |
| Large (51-100 employees) | $350,000-$750,000 | $150,000-$350,000 | 40-55% |
Note: In-house costs include salary, benefits, training, infrastructure, and tools. Outsourced costs include monthly service fees for comparable coverage.
Potential Challenges of IT Support Outsourcing
While the benefits of outsourced IT are significant, it’s important to acknowledge potential challenges:
Change Management
Transitioning to outsourced IT requires adjustment for your team. Employees accustomed to handling technology issues in specific ways may need time to adapt to new procedures and support channels.
Solution: The best MSPs provide comprehensive onboarding and training to ensure a smooth transition, with clear communication throughout the process.
Communication and Relationship Management
Effective communication is essential for successful IT outsourcing. Without proper channels and processes, misunderstandings can occur about priorities, responsibilities, and expectations.
Solution: Establish clear communication protocols, regular check-ins, and defined escalation paths to ensure alignment between your business needs and the services provided.
Security and Compliance Concerns
Entrusting your technology infrastructure to a third party requires confidence in their security practices and compliance expertise.
Solution: Thoroughly vet potential providers, review their security certifications, and request detailed information about their data protection protocols and compliance expertise.
Finding the Right Provider
Not all MSPs are created equal. Finding a provider that aligns with your business values, understands your industry, and offers the right mix of services is essential for success.
Solution: Carefully evaluate potential providers based on their experience, service offerings, client testimonials, and cultural fit with your organization.
How to Outsource IT Services Successfully
- Assess your IT needs. Begin by identifying your current technology pain points, security requirements, and business objectives. Knowing what you need helps you find the right provider.
- Research potential providers. Look for MSPs with experience in your industry, positive client testimonials, and a comprehensive service offering that aligns with your needs.
- Evaluate provider expertise and experience. Review case studies, request references, and inquire about certifications and partnerships that demonstrate the provider’s capabilities.
- Understand service level agreements. Carefully review what’s included in the proposed service package, response times for different issues, and how performance will be measured.
- Plan the transition process. Work with your chosen provider to develop a detailed implementation plan that minimizes disruption to your operations.
- Build a strong partnership. Approach the relationship as a strategic partnership rather than a transactional vendor relationship. Regular communication and feedback are essential for long-term success.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid When Outsourcing IT:
- Choosing a provider based solely on price without considering quality and scope of services
- Failing to clearly define expectations and responsibilities in the service agreement
- Not involving key stakeholders in the selection and transition process
- Neglecting to establish clear communication channels and escalation procedures
- Overlooking the importance of cultural fit between your organization and the provider
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides comprehensive guidelines for selecting IT service providers, including security considerations and best practices for service agreements (Source: NIST Special Publication 800-35).
Is Outsourced IT Managed Services Right for Your Business?
Determining whether outsourced IT is the right choice for your business depends on several factors:
Signs Your Business Would Benefit from Outsourced IT:
- Frequent technology issues that disrupt operations
- Limited in-house IT expertise or resources
- Difficulty keeping up with cybersecurity threats
- Unpredictable IT costs and budget overruns
- Challenges supporting remote or hybrid work environments
- Compliance requirements that demand specialized knowledge
- Growth that has outpaced your current IT capabilities
📌 Key Questions to Ask Before Outsourcing:
- What specific IT functions would provide the most value if outsourced?
- How will outsourcing impact your current employees and operations?
- What level of control do you need to maintain over your technology decisions?
- How will you measure the success of your outsourcing partnership?
- Does the provider’s culture and approach align with your business values?
Case Example: Manufacturing Company
A medium-sized manufacturing company struggled with outdated systems that frequently crashed during peak production times. Their small IT team was overwhelmed with day-to-day issues and couldn’t focus on modernization efforts. After partnering with an MSP, they implemented:
- Updated network infrastructure with redundant systems
- Automated monitoring for production systems
- Cloud-based ERP solution with proper integration
- Comprehensive disaster recovery plan
Results: Production downtime decreased by 35%, order processing efficiency improved by 27%, and the internal IT team was able to focus on strategic projects that improved manufacturing processes.
Why Choose CMIT Solutions for Outsourced IT Support
CMIT Solutions brings over 25 years of experience providing managed IT services to businesses across North America. As a nationally recognized leader in the industry, we combine the personalized service of a local provider with the resources and expertise of a national network.
Our approach is based on building true partnerships with our clients. We take the time to understand your business objectives, challenges, and technology needs before recommending solutions. This consultative approach ensures that our services align with your goals and deliver measurable value.
Our comprehensive service offerings include:
- Proactive monitoring and maintenance
- Robust cybersecurity solutions
- Cloud services and solutions
- Business continuity and disaster recovery
- Strategic IT consulting
- Help desk and user support
What truly sets CMIT Solutions apart is our unique model combining local ownership with national resources. Your local CMIT Solutions office understands your market and business environment, while our national network provides access to extensive resources, expertise, and best practices.
Ready to transform your business technology? Contact CMIT Solutions today at (800) 399-2648 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation.
Final Points on IT Support Outsourcing
In today’s technology-driven business environment, effective IT management is not just a support function—it’s a strategic necessity. Outsourced IT services offer businesses of all sizes access to the expertise, resources, and solutions needed to stay competitive, secure, and efficient.
By partnering with the right managed service provider, you can transform technology from a challenge into a competitive advantage. You’ll not only reduce costs and improve reliability but also gain a strategic partner committed to your business success.
As you consider whether outsourced IT is right for your business, focus on finding a provider that understands your unique needs, demonstrates proven expertise, and approaches the relationship as a true partnership. With the right MSP, you’ll be well-positioned to leverage technology for growth and innovation in the years ahead.
FAQs
Will outsourcing my IT services mean losing control over my technology decisions?
No, you won’t lose control of important technology decisions. A quality MSP works collaboratively with you, providing expert guidance while respecting your decision-making authority. The best partnerships involve joint planning and regular strategy reviews to ensure technology aligns with your business goals.
How quickly can I expect responses when IT issues arise with an outsourced provider?
Response times are typically defined in your Service Level Agreement (SLA) and vary based on issue severity. Critical issues that impact operations should receive response within 15-30 minutes, while lower-priority matters might have a 1-4 hour response window. Top MSPs provide 24/7 monitoring and support for business-critical systems.
What happens to my existing IT staff if I decide to outsource some or all of my IT functions?
Many businesses maintain internal IT staff who work collaboratively with their MSP. Outsourcing often allows in-house staff to focus on strategic initiatives and business-specific applications while the MSP handles infrastructure, security, and routine maintenance. The transition should be approached as a partnership that enhances your team’s capabilities.
How are cybersecurity responsibilities divided between my company and the IT service provider?
Your MSP typically handles technical security measures including firewall management, threat monitoring, patch management, and data protection. Your company retains responsibility for security policies, user access management decisions, and ensuring employee compliance with security protocols. The most successful security partnerships involve clear delineation of responsibilities and regular collaboration.
Can outsourced IT services accommodate our industry-specific software and applications?
Most experienced MSPs support a wide range of industry-specific applications and work closely with software vendors to resolve issues. When evaluating providers, ask about their experience with your specific applications and how they approach supporting specialized software. Look for an MSP with experience in your industry who understands your unique technology requirements.
