Why Every Business Needs to Embrace Cloud Computing

It turns out having your head in the clouds isn’t such a bad thing. In fact, it could be the best thing if you own a business or manage IT operations. We hear a lot about how information is being stored, accessed, and analyzed using cloud-based technology these days. Most of the entertainment we consume and the messaging platforms we stay in touch with are powered by cloud-based technology.

That movie you watched at home last night and that email notification you just received on your phone probably both came through a cloud. We all already use cloud-based systems in our everyday lives. However, that doesn’t make cloud-based technology any less mysterious for the average person. What exactly is the cloud?

The average owner of a small or medium-sized business might be confused about what cloud computing is and why they need it. However, there is no question about the fact that every business does need it. Time, money, and manpower can all be saved when cloud-based solutions are used.

The bottom line is that we’re all going to have to upgrade to become cloud compatible eventually. The only question is how far behind you want to get before it’s time to make the leap. Are you ready to catch up to what’s happening in the cloud? Here’s your crash course when it comes to cloud services for business.

An Overview of Cloud Computing

What are people talking about when they refer to cloud computing? Cloud computing is a means of delivering essentially any type of computing service using the Internet. It umbrellas servers, databases, software, storage, networking, analytics, and more. All any company needs to take part is an Internet connection. You probably already have that covered. That means that all of the files you are storing and the systems you are running using clunky servers can be transferred to a platform that can be accessed around the clock from anywhere. Entering the cloud is like removing any tethers that were holding your team back from working and communicating from anywhere.

How does cloud computing look in the business landscape? A cloud-based setup can simply be used for data storage, networking, and basic office applications. In addition, a cloud-based system can be customized to use machine learning to aid in decision-making processes across an organization. What you are doing when you switch to a cloud-based system is essentially unbinding your team from the need to stay close to computer hardware.

What You Can Do With Cloud Computing?

The sky is really the limit when it comes to cloud computing. So many aspects of business operations can be handled using cloud-based technology. For instance, developers can create new apps and services on any platform using resources that ensure that all compliance requirements are being met. Cloud-based computing also makes it easy to test and build applications for your company.

Many companies enjoy a big reduction in both the cost and time required to develop applications once they upgrade to the cloud. It’s also possible to use the cloud to protect data during transfers. Users can seamlessly share information from any device or location knowing that everything is being safeguarded. The brilliant connectivity doesn’t end there. Users with cloud access can stream audio and video from anywhere and at any time. Groups of users can also access the same content at the same time. Imagine what that could do to boost the impact of your meetings.

It’s important to not skip over the ways a cloud-based infrastructure can make it much easier to analyze data. This is especially true if you’re struggling to get a full picture of your data across several teams, offices, or divisions.

Cloud-based computing enables you to unify data and use all of the information you have to make smart business decisions based on the insights that have been captured. It will all be right there in front of you. Your company is falling behind if you’re not already tapping into the analytical power of today’s technology.

The Benefits of Cloud Computing

You probably already know that all major companies in the world are using cloud computing. You might be wondering why cloud computing is so desirable. The answer is that this way of storing and serving up data is fast, innovative, and flexible. Your business may be able to cut costs and enjoy custom options with help from cloud computing.

Cost

Cost is one of the big reasons why cloud computing is so preferred by businesses around the globe. You might be wondering how and why cloud computing allows businesses to save funds. The answer is that cloud services actually allow businesses to save on capital expenses. There isn’t any need to purchase expensive hardware when everything is up in the cloud. What’s more, the cost of running an on-site data center is gone. Many businesses find that productivity increases when they switch to the cloud. That’s largely because IT professionals are able to focus on more important tasks related to business goals instead of putting time and energy into maintaining data centers.

Unparalleled Speed

Getting data on demand is simply easier when you switch to cloud computing. Employees are able to access huge amounts of data instantly when cloud storage is in play. That is extremely helpful when it comes to sharing documents and files across departments or an enterprise. Cloud technology helps to streamline processes and ultimately leads to better productivity.

Customization

The needs of your business simply aren’t going to be the same as the needs of the business down the street. That’s why cloud-based storage is such a game-changer. It’s possible to enjoy a completely tailored experience that takes into account how much data you need to store and how you need to access it.

Are You Ready to Talk About the Cloud?

It’s time to bring customized, scalable cloud services for business to your business. Implementing cloud-based technology at your company is one of the best ways to move into the future and ensure that lagging, clunky technology won’t hold you back and prevent your team from getting to the next level. Network Coverage can help you to determine your needs and tailor a plan to bring the cloud to you. Contact us today.

Top Ransomware Viruses Attacking Businesses Today

Ransomware is one of the most virulent, persistent threats to individuals and enterprises around the globe. Businesses can spend years building up their reputation, including a commitment to the security of their customers, and yet have it torn down in seconds by one ransomware data breach. It’s not just small businesses or ones that don’t have a big budget for tech. From counties containing major cities, like Tillamook County in Oregon, to media law firm Grubman Shire Meiselas & Sacks and California-based Communications & Power Industries (CPI), even the largest enterprises and governments aren’t immune to ransomware.

Today we’re looking at the top five ransomware programs, dangerous and ever-evolving, of the year, and how you can protect your business from attack.

What Is Ransomware, Exactly?

You’re probably familiar with malware and phishing scams. Ransomware is pretty much what it sounds like – malicious software that demands a ransom. Cybercriminals can block entities, from individuals to global corporations, from accessing their own data by encrypting it with a key only they know. The hackers add extensions to the data to prevent your or your IT team from breaking the encryption, holding it hostage until you pay the demanded ransom. If you don’t, the data may be deleted, leaked, or sold.

Even more worrisome, ransomware may lie dormant in your system and may even be backed up with legitimate files. in these cases, the extortionist can demand a ransom for part of the data, have it paid, and then activate ransomware lurking elsewhere in your servers, shared drives, cloud, or individual computers.

Cybersecurity is like an endless game of cat-and-mouse, with security experts counteracting malicious software and building protective programs and the cybercriminals creating new iterations of the malicious software. Therefore, protecting your company against incursions is an ongoing, complex process.

The Monetary Effect of Ransomware

The financial impact of ransomware is estimated to double year over year, according to TechTarget. The average ransomware payment increased by over 40% in Q4 of 2020. To put that in dollars, payments increased from $154,108 to $220,298 in a three-month span.

Part of the reason for the notable increase in ransomware in 2020 is due to the increase in remote workers, especially since many companies and individuals weren’t equipped to handle the shift. Home users accessing company networks created the biggest vulnerability and thus the surge in cyber attacks. The cyber threat has evolved, and cybercriminals are getting more sophisticated – and more greedy. The current trend is to launch back-to-back attacks on ransomed companies or individuals.

Industries with the most risk for ransomware attacks are those in the BFSI verticals: banking, insurance, and financial services, plus IT, manufacturing (for proprietary information), and government.

The Five Most Dangerous Ransomware Attacks

Maze Ransomware

Maze is perhaps the best-known ransomware discovered in May 2019 by Jerome Segura. It’s a global threat that was previously known as “Cha Cha” ransomware and uses exploit kits such as Spelvo and Fallout to deploy its attacks.

It’s an innovative approach and focuses on threats of publishing sensitive information if the ransom isn’t paid. It encrypts all files and threatens internet release. Individuals and companies don’t really have recourse since the damage of leaked information by Maze has already damaged their reputation. Some companies that have fallen victim to Maze include Xerox, Canon, and Cognizant.

REvil Ransomware

This is a file-blocking virus that encrypts a victim’s files and then sends a ransom message. Failure to pay the ransom on time results in the demand being doubled. The REvil cohort actually started an auction site to sell stolen data, which means that companies won’t know who ends up with their sensitive information.

It’s been more infamous for targeting A-list celebrities and threatening to auction their personal information on the Dark Web through their network of auction sites. Some examples of REvil’s stolen data include computer files from Barbara Streisand, Bruce Springsteen, and Bette Midler, along with a legal document of Madonna’s tour contract. Other celebrities who were attacked include Drake, Elton John, and Mariah Carey. While the organization seems to have gone offline recently, it could be simply going quiet.

Ryuk Ransomware

Ryuk ransomware is arguably the biggest “player” in ransomware and certainly one of the most active. This software can access files on a system, files on a device, or even the entire system itself, using encryption until the ransom is paid. It uses TrickBot to infect the system, or software called Remote Desktop, to mirror a user’s device and thereby gain access to the system. Robust algorithms such as RSA and AES use a unique key for each victim and unique keys within the system.

Ryuk’s preferred targets are government agencies and larger companies who can pay large ransoms rather than individuals. EMCOR, a US-based Fortune 500 company, is one of the most notable victims, and the company suffered a loss of some of its IT systems.

Tycoon Ransomware

Tycoon is written in Javascript and targets both Linus and Windows systems, using a Trojanized version of the Java Runtime Environment and uses ImageJ, a Java image format, to disguise itself. It focuses on education and software industries, including SMBs. While it was more aggressive at the beginning of last year, it seems to have slowed.

It uses different techniques to remain hidden. First, it can deny an administrator access to the system and then follow up with an attack on file servers and the domain controller. It’s known for taking advantage of weak passwords or compromised ones, which makes remote workers or those who haven’t changed passwords often especially vulnerable.

NetWalker Ransomware

This is one of the newest ransomware threats. It’s also known as Mailto and targets various victims, from individuals to governments, healthcare organizations, and enterprises. It starts by encrypting all Windows devices connected to the network o fits victims and uses an embedded configuration that includes file names, ransom notes, and several configuration operations.

NetWalker, also known as Mailto, is one of the newest variants of the ransomware family. Various remote working individuals, enterprises, government agencies, and healthcare organizations have reported being attacked by NetWalker last year.

NetWalker spreads in two ways. First, it uses Covid “phishing” emails that contain a VBS script. Then, the executable files spread throughout the recipient’s network.

How Can I Prevent Ransomware Attacks?

Fortunately, ransomware attacks are preventable. Organizations and individuals both can use many of the same tricks, including:

• Be very careful when clicking links or attachments from unsolicited emails
• Don’t download “cracked’ software or software from unsecured websites
• Back up all sensitive data and files in an offline data storage center
• Update any plug-ins in your software regularly – these are especially vulnerable to cyber attacks
• Use strong passwords, and avoid reusing passwords

In addition, government organizations and businesses should also focus on areas that may have exposure to ransomware. The owner or IT Director may wish to have an outside cybersecurity consulting firm analyze their network and security protocols, looking for outdated protection and noting any security risks. As a business owner, implement a company culture of security awareness, including limiting access to sensitive files and making employees aware of the danger of password-sharing.

Cyber-resilient company culture and a focus on best practices to prevent cyber attacks – not just from ransomware but other malware – can significantly reduce the risks for ransomware attacks.

Takeaway

The advice from many security companies is not to pay the ransom if you’re a victim. There may be recourses through a network of government agencies. However, the best way to avoid paying ransomware is to protect yourself, your company, and your clients against threats. Implementing stricter security protocols, as well as re-training your staff to embrace proactive measures, can be your best protection.

A Cost Analysis of In-House and Outsourced IT

As the largest companies across the world continue to outsource a growing number of jobs, businesses of all types and sizes find themselves asking whether they should follow suit. IT services are included in this debate, though many still question whether in-house or outsourced IT is the more cost-effective solution.

In most cases, the short answer is that it depends on the needs of the individual business, considering factors like size and industry. However, there is a range of factors that are applicable to companies of all shapes and sizes. Before making your decision, be sure to consider the question from every angle.

5 Factors to Consider When Choosing an IT Service

Ultimately, getting the most for your money when hiring IT services means finding an option that is perfectly matched to the size and scope of your business needs. Because of this, every company’s IT should look a little different. Even so, understanding some of the basic differences between in-house and outsourced IT services can lay a strong foundation for making the right choice.

Take a look at some of the most important factors to consider when deciding between in-house and outsourced IT.

Upfront Cost

While the actual cost differences between in-house and outsourced IT has been subject to debate, many business leaders agree that in-house IT services are going to put extra strain on your budget than their outsourced counterparts. Part of the reason for this has to do with the fact that salaried or hourly wage IT staff need to be paid even when they don’t have a specific service to perform, which can waste a lot of money over the long term. This is especially true for smaller businesses, which will need to pay employee benefits and other costs that are a greater burden to them than to a larger corporation.

On the other hand, outsourced service providers are generally only onsite when they are needed. This can drastically cut down on costs, even if the base rate of an outsourced IT professional is higher than an in-house one. Plus, since many IT companies serve a wide range of different clients, they are generally able to provide their services at an affordable rate.

Time Investment

No matter where you source your IT services, finding the right professional to suit your needs is going to require time and effort. For in-house service, this means interviewing candidates in an already competitive labor market. Unless you’re able to pay top-dollar, you may find yourself settling for a less than ideal match.

By contrast, there is much less pressure placed on outsourcing IT services. There is little risk to trying out one firm for a limited time and then switching to another if you aren’t satisfied with what they offer. Of course, you still need to devote some resources to seeking the right firm and overseeing their work, though in general, the time investment will be significantly less.

Skill and Expertise

There are skilled IT professionals all across the labor market, but how you hire their services affects their relationship to their work. One major advantage of in-house IT service is talent development. After a team has invested the time in learning your systems, they will have gained significant expertise in their field, as well as a familiarity with your networks, individual computers, and other technologies. While reaping these benefits takes time, many find the investment well worth the effort.

With outsourced IT, any on-the-job experience a given professional may gain is to the benefit of the IT firm. In some ways, this is a loss, though it’s worth remembering that IT firms are often able to attract the top talent in their field. After working with multiple companies and a range of different systems, their skill level and quality of work are often very high.

Access and Communication

One leading reason why some companies prefer in-house services is access. When you can simply walk down the hallway to resolve an issue with your computer systems or schedule a repair, the advantage of in-house service becomes clear. This is especially true in the case of emergencies when quick action can make a drastic impact on daily operations.

If such an emergency strikes while your outsourced IT team is working with another client, or tied up for some other reason, it may be hard to get immediate attention. Another factor to consider is that many outsourced IT techs don’t show up on-site at all, instead of working remotely through an internet connection. While this is perfectly fine for most kinds of maintenance and network issues, in some cases it may make it more difficult to resolve a problem.

Security

If your systems house confidential information, valuable intellectual properties, or other vulnerable data, it is worth considering the risks that come with hiring outside IT help. Perhaps the most surefire way to keep your data safe is to hire an in-house professional with whom you can build a lasting relationship over time.

However, it’s important to remember that much of this risk can be mitigated by choosing your IT service provider carefully. Established firms with a good reputation among previous clients are a safe bet when it comes to data security.

Which Comes Out on Top?

Ultimately, the in-house vs outsourced IT debate largely comes down to scale. Smaller and mid-sized businesses will generally find that outsourced IT is more cost-effective and convenient than an in-house alternative, simply because they don’t require round-the-clock network support the way larger companies do. It’s true that such outsourced services may not bring the same level of access and don’t allow a company to benefit from a team’s accumulated experience. However, as IT firms continue to refine their services, they are getting better at bridging these gaps with remote access technologies.

That being said, it’s important to keep in mind that the IT service that will be most cost-effective for your business depends on a wide variety of factors. Companies that need an extra level of cybersecurity, or are anticipating large growth in the near future may have different needs than an established mid-size business.

To get a better idea of how to best support your technology needs, speaking with an experienced team of IT professionals can be a great place to start. Network Coverage is dedicated to making IT services both profitable and productive for your business. Get in touch with our customer service team today to find out more.

6 Questions Law Firms Should Ask about Data Backup & Disaster Recovery

How many files, programs, and communication records does your law firm use on a daily basis to complete your work? It’s likely dozens, if not hundreds. What would you do if suddenly all or most of those files and programs were wiped clean either due to hardware failure or a malicious cyber-attack?

Data backup and disaster recovery is easy to overlook unless you’ve been in a data loss situation before. Losing files, records, and communication is more than an inconvenience; it paralyzes the productivity of a law firm until those files are recovered or replaced—if ever.

Having systems and processes in place for backup and recovery means that in the case of a data disaster, your law firm can minimize downtime and get back up and running at full capacity in hours instead of days or weeks.

For a data backup and disaster recovery system to be most effective, it should integrate seamlessly into your existing systems to automatically and regularly back up your data. You should also have a data recovery plan in place that streamlines the recovery of your data in case of disaster.

Questions Your Law Firm Should Ask About Data Backup & Recovery

If your law firm hasn’t analyzed your backup and recovery systems recently, it’s probably time to do so. Here are some of the most important questions to ask to analyze your backup and data recovery systems.

1 – Is our data being backed up somewhere? If so, where?

This is the first and most important question you need to ask about data backup. Do you have a secondary location where all company files, records, and programs are being backed up? If so, where?

Most lawyers simply keep files on their computers. This means that a single virus, data breach, or hardware crash could wipe their information completely clean. While some law firms often utilize a secondary server to back up their data, this still leaves your data at risk if there is ever a physical event such as a natural disaster. It can be wise to have two backup locations, with at least one of those on the cloud.

2 – Are our backup systems automated?

This is also a huge indicator of the effectiveness of your law office’s data backup and recovery system. If your backup system is not automated then you are most certainly missing hundreds if not thousands of important files, systems, and records. It also means you probably don’t have the latest versions of those files, systems, or records in your backup.

The data backup system for your law firm should be automated and should integrate seamlessly into your existing systems. It should also be non-intrusive. For example, you shouldn’t be experiencing several hours of downtime every week to accommodate inconvenient backups. Instead, it should be quick, efficient, and non-intrusive to keep your business running smoothly.

3 – How often is our data being backed up?

If your systems crashed or you experienced a security breach today, how much data would be lost since your last backup? A day’s worth? A week’s? It’s important to know how frequently your data is being backed up and to make sure you’re satisfied with the answer.

Modern software and systems allow us to have more regular and non-obtrusive backups than ever. If you’re still relying on an old-school system that lags weeks—or longer—behind current operations, then a data loss would hit you harder than those law firms that have automated daily backups.

4 – Which systems and data files are backed up?

When most lawyers consider data backup they’re thinking of important files, court documents, and contracts. However, it’s also important to remember that communication such as emails and other correspondences between clients and colleagues, databases, software programs, and accounting records are also important during data backup.

5 – What does our disaster recovery process look like?

Making sure your data is properly backed up is important, but it’s equally important to know how that data would be recovered in the case of a disaster. You should have a clear understanding of the projected recovery time for your law firm in case of data loss. How long will it take to restore systems and files back to normal after a disaster or disruption?

It is also important to know who oversees and implements the disaster recovery process and what it looks like. Smaller law firms often don’t have a CTO or IT team on staff to run disaster recovery. In these cases, it’s important for them to partner with a data backup and disaster recovery company to prepare for potential disasters and oversee recovery if and when disasters occur.

6 – Have we ever tested our backup system?

Systems and projected recovery time objectives can bring peace of mind, but it can also pay to do a run-through to test actual processes and make adjustments as needed. This helps give a clearer picture of “Recovery Time Actual,” or the time it actually takes to recover systems and data in case of disaster.

Why is Data Backup and Recovery so Important?

Data backup and recovery is about more than preventing inconvenience. Data loss can have huge impact on a business. For instance, just one hour of downtime can cost small companies as much as $8,0000; mid-sized organizations as much as $74,000; and can cost large enterprises over $700,000.[1] In addition, according to FEMA, 43% of companies who experience a major data loss never reopen, and 29% close within two years.[2]

Are you unsure about your current data backup and recovery plan?

The data backup and recovery team at Network Coverage are experts in backup and DR. If you’re unsure about your law firm’s current data backup and recovery plan, please feel free to schedule a free backup analysis and consultation!

[Free Backup Analysis]

[1] http://www.techadvisory.org/2016/01/the-importance-of-disaster-recovery/

[2] “IT Disaster Recovery Plan”. FEMA. 25 October 2012. Retrieved 11 May 2013.

Shared Services vs Managed Services: A Side-by-Side Comparison of the Two Business Models

Every business needs a strong support system to help steer it toward success. Whether you run a large tech firm or a small local business, finding a powerful team of skilled professionals to back your company can help it rise to new heights. Two of the most common services that you can choose from are shared services and managed services. Each option has a unique purpose that can empower your business to reach its goals.

When considering shared services vs managed services, it’s important to take your specific needs and goals into account. The clearer your business plan is, the better prepared you’ll be to make the right choice for your company. Before you can decide between shared and managed services, you need to understand the key differences between the two business models. Here’s what you need to know about each type of service.

What Are Shared Services?

Shared services refer to the consolidation of services that are used across various departments of an organization. The goal of these services is to optimize a company’s most widely used resources. After identifying the most crucial services to your business, a shared services team will fund these services and provide them with the necessary resources. Each service can then be properly sorted into the correct department.

As the name implies, the ultimate goal of shared services is to share your most-used services across your entire organization. This is accomplished by forming internal service provider departments that boost the overall efficiency of your business. Internal service providers can help accomplish a variety of tasks, including:

• Keeping costs in check
• Achieving key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Ensuring quality services

When comparing shared services vs managed services, it’s worth noting that shared services can help reduce your business’s various costs. By consolidating your services and constantly searching for ways to improve them, shared services aim to improve the efficiency of your business while ensuring high-quality resources.

What Are Managed Services?

Managed services are distinct from shared services in a number of ways. Managed services usually refer to IT services, which are outsourced to a third-party contractor known as a managed services provider (MSP). An MSP strives to make important technological decisions on behalf of your company. By working closely with your team, a skilled MSP can ensure that the decisions they make align with your unique business goals.

Managed IT services seek to monitor your IT infrastructure to ensure that it’s doing its job as efficiently as possible. This includes managing all of your machines, servers and mobile devices and inspecting them for any potential issues. Most managed service teams also offer a wide range of additional services to companies, such as cyber security support and data compliance support.

If you choose to hire an MSP after comparing shared services vs managed services, you can help prevent costly problems from appearing before they wreak havoc on your business. A managed services provider ensures that your systems are up-to-date and that they’re running smoothly.

An IT expert can also confirm that the latest software is installed, which is crucial to keeping potential issues at bay. Older systems tend to cause more problems, which can put a lot of strain on your business in the long run.

Choosing the Right Business Model for Your Needs

As you analyze the differences between shared vs managed services, it’s important to account for the pros and cons of each business model. Making the right decision for your business ultimately boils down to understanding the implications of both service types.

First, consider the size of your company. If you own a small business, you may want to consider investing in managed services. A managed services provider can provide you with access to key technological tools while helping you stay within your budget. Additionally, by letting a managed services team take care of your company’s tech needs, you can shift your focus to other pressing tasks that are needed throughout your business.

It’s also crucial to think about your team’s level of expertise. If you’re struggling to meet clients’ needs due to a shortage of skills and experience among your internal team, it’s a good idea to outsource these skills to a third-party provider. Alternatively, if you’re confident in your team’s ability to cater to customers’ needs, you may consider opting for shared services instead.

Another key point that can help you decide between shared services vs managed services is response time. You might have to settle for slower response times if you rely on your internal staff to perform different tasks. Even if you assign responsibilities to a large group of workers, you likely won’t see the same efficiency as you would by outsourcing to an MSP. At the end of the day, choosing managed services can allow you to achieve a higher level of productivity throughout your entire workforce.

Help Your Business Thrive With the Right Managed Services

At Network Coverage, we provide businesses with a wide selection of customizable managed IT solutions. No matter what your goals are or what your budget looks like, we cater our services to your specific needs so that you can focus on doing your job successfully. By connecting with one of our highly responsive support teams after you’ve decided between shared services vs managed services, you can be assured that your technological needs are in the right hands.

The Differences Between Outsourcing and Managed Services Providers

As your company grows, your IT Department may end up stretched too thin, or unable to keep up with the everchanging threats of hackers and intrusion. From blind spots to infrastructure failure and application monitoring, these disruptions can significantly impact your ability to run your business.

These vulnerabilities may have convinced you that you need to find a better way to run your department or even seek outside assistance for operations. However, not all outside IT companies are created equally, and when you’re outsourcing your technology operations, it’s easy to find independent IT companies that specialize in outsourced technology solutions.

Outsourcing By Another Name

There’s another option for businesses whose IT Department is overextended, or for smaller businesses that can’t afford a dedicated IT department full of specialists for different aspects of technology. No matter the size and scope of your company, you could benefit more from businesses that offer “Everything as a Service” (XaaS) for technology.

It’s easy to assume that managed services companies are simply different terms for “outsourcing,” and while this type of company and outsourced tech providers share similarities, there’s quite a bit of difference. Outsourcing has had a (somewhat deserved) poor reputation as a cheap source of tech support from remote workers that may be located halfway across the globe.

Managed services providers, on the other hand, are more than just outsourcing by a sweeter name. While it’s true that these are external service providers, the scope of work from managed services providers is much different from simple outsourcing.

Comparing Managed Services to Outsourcing

Outsourcing firms often offer specific types of services or narrowly defined aspects of a multi-phase project. For example, some companies may choose to outsource their helpdesk operations or to outsource a certain phase of a software development project. Other functions of outsourcing can include simple tasks like data entry or preparing files for conversion to a new operating system. When you outsource, often you’re selecting a firm to fill a discrete need.

Managed services providers offer a more comprehensive approach to technology services, and typically offer a range of services that can include a one-top-shop for a complicated project, or different kinds of tech services that can help take some of the stress off an overextended internal IT department, like 24-hour troubleshooting services, or updating infrastructure. A good managed services company will employ a large team of skilled IT professionals with specialties in different areas, allowing clients to pick and choose from a wide range of options for IT applications.

The Managed Services Experience

Let’s take a closer look at an example of a managed services provider in action. For example, let’s say that your sales management software is ready to go live, but still needs a few additional features to allow teams in the field to more effectively use it.

In this situation, the managed services team can provide an assessment of the program to determine what needs to be done to allow your team to effectively use an expensive new program, from additional training to turning on certain features or aligning the program’s features to how you actually operate your business. The service provider can also assess your hardware and performance-compromising issues. If there isn’t an upgrade to your sales software on the market, a managed services provider can even write one for you, customized for your needs without affecting the operation of your business.

Foresight and Vision

It’s not just the comprehensive service and specialized talent that makes managed services companies so different from traditional outsourcing firms. It’s also the difference between a vendor, providing the exact service you specify and nothing more, and a visionary partner, one with the expertise to offer actionable insight into how you can run your business more efficiently.

Managed services providers work with you to find changes that can streamline your service, helping you grow your business, and propose solutions that you may not have thought of. For example, they may find a place that you can use AI services to reduce repetitive busy work and free up your team for enhanced client services, or automate much of your marketing, allowing your sales team to have more time to source new leads.

How Can I Find the Right Managed Services Provider?

Understanding what you need from your managed services provider can help you find the right fit for your company. Plus, some less reputable outsourcing companies may brand themselves as managed services providers, but not offer a truly holistic technology service.

Ask for referrals from others in your industry for a great managed services company, or feel free to ask for referrals and testimonials from the company itself. If a managed services company has successful partnerships with other businesses like yours, it indicates that they have an understanding of the unique needs and challenges of your industry, and they’re likely familiar with industry-specific software.

Managed IT service providers are a partner, not just order-takers for a certain need. They should have multiple specialists on their team with a variety of skillsets, plus offer both on-site and near-site support models. As you grow, your managed service needs are likely to grow, too, so look for a company that’s both flexible and scalable.

Let’s Get Started!

The team at NetCov has the expertise and flexibility to deliver solutions for all your IT needs, including ones that you haven’t thought of yet. We offer competitive pricing and custom quotes to meet your specific needs, plus insight into how we can help you become more efficient and productive. Give us a call today or visit us online to learn more!