Break/fix versus managed service provider — What every business should know

This paid piece is sponsored by IT Outlet.

Here’s the question every business has to answer about the technology it uses: Let the tech break before fixing, or make sure the tech never breaks at all. 

Most businesses would skip answering if they could. They’re busy developing a product, filling orders or a million other things. Addressing the question of how to maintain and service IT-related issues is crucial, however. It’s reliable, working tech that will make that new product possible or getting that order filled properly — and, as is the case for all businesses, ensure a million things can even get done. 

So what should your business do? Take a wait-and-hope approach that relies on one-time fixes from an IT service, or invest in a long-term plan to keep tech-related issues to a bare minimum? 

IT Outlet has developed solutions for both scenarios. 

Break/fix versus managed service providers: IT Outlet style 

Break/fix services are fee-based and rely on the individual business to contact the team before any work gets done. Repairs or upgrades are performed as needed. Fees are calculated at an hourly rate plus the cost of parts. Every scenario is different, and the ending fee will depend on the severity of the issue and the time it takes to remedy the problem. Additional factors have to be considered, including the time required to acquire the appropriate replacement parts or the installation time needed to get things up and running again. There isn’t a huge upfront investment.  

For small businesses without a major reliance on tech – like those running a handful of computers – the break/fix option is a great solution. IT Outlet has a proven team to help longtime or new clients taking the “let it break before fixing” approach. Because the team from Brandon has such a diverse client list – did you know they worked with Disney last year? – they are ready for almost any issue that arises with a solution on hand or the know-how to get things done quickly and right. 

While the break/fix option is still used today, more and more organizations are using IT Outlet’s managed service provider option. 

Through an MSP with IT Outlet, clients get everything from remote monitoring to maintenance and on-site support . The Nerd factor, as the team calls it, is in full effect. The team of IT techs focuses on five important areas at all times. 

5 pros to IT Outlet’s MSP service

1. Efficiency and high-level support. In a nutshell, they are available 24/7 and able to launch remote sessions to help your team in real time, helping to minimize any potential downtime for your business.
2. Data security. Before an issue ever arises with your data – and it always does – the team will audit your network and devices to make sure you have the best, up-to-date antivirus solutions. 
3. Device management. Computers are more complex than ever. Add in servers, routers and Wi-Fi networks. The specialists at IT Outlet handle all that heavy lifting. 
4. Cloud backups. Routine backups of critical info will be routine, which helps easily restore lost files in the event of an incident. 
5. Software updates. Outdated applications are one of the top reasons businesses are compromised. The tech team will make sure nothing is compromised. 

Break/fix versus MSP: The best way to choose

So the question remains, what should your business do with its tech: Let it break then react, or put a plan in place to keep your tech from breaking in the first place? 

IT Outlet’s team knows every business is different. That’s why they’ve built out a solution for either option. 

Start a relationship with the team today. Find out which option for your tech is best. 

Contact: itoutlet.com/contact