The majority of small businesses use a break/fix system, which means they solve a problem when something breaks. For businesses just starting out, this model might seem like the right solution, as it works for those with minimal technology needs. Still, a break/fix IT support will no longer be in accordance with the needs of a business the moment it starts growing.
This is especially the case today when companies rely on technology more than ever, and it is present in every part of their operations. So, a reactive approach might no longer be the smartest idea, since waiting for something to break will lead to delays and downtime, and will negatively impact a business, impeding its growth.
The Warning Signs That the Break/Fix System Is No Longer Sufficient
An Increase in the IT Problems
The first sign that a small business has outgrown the break/fix model is that the IT problems have started growing. The result is that employers need to call for help more than in the past. The problems might seem minor, like dealing with slow computers, software errors, or networking problems, but they do cause issues. The break/fix support only offers a solution for the present, but since there is an underlying issue, the problem has a high likelihood of occurring again in the future.
Dealing with Low Productivity
An IT problem will also bring downtime, which affects productivity. Unfortunately, employees won’t have the needed conditions to work productively, and this will result in operational disruptions.
Cyberthreats Are More Present than Ever
Cyber threats are evolving constantly, and large businesses are not the only ones subject to dealing with them. There is a large number of attacks that have been present in small businesses, as they make the work of breaching the system much easier, especially those with a break/fix system. Without the needed tech support, a company can deal with ransomware attacks, virus infections, and many other security incidents.
The Business Keeps Evolving
The moment a business keeps evolving, it brings new challenges, especially regarding technology. A bigger business means new employees, complex cloud applications, and even more locations. Without a good technology set in place, problems will continue to appear.
The Hidden Costs of Downtime
Downtime is a big issue, as it not only impacts productivity but also leads to measurable financial losses. A downtime spans various areas: loss of revenue, human cost, delayed deliverables, and reputational damage. If the problems are recurrent and continue to happen, the lost revenue will surely be bigger than hiring someone to take care of the problem.
Managed IT Versus Internal IT
When businesses realize they have outgrown a break/fix model, most of them compare managed IT vs. internal IT services to determine which one is better suited for their needs. Here is a comparison table outlining the differences between them.
| Criteria | Managed IT services | Internal IT |
| Scalability | Offers flexible services, so it can be changed as the business grows | Slower scalability, since it involves hiring new personnel, as well as providing training |
| Cost | Lower cost with a predictable monthly fee | Cost might be higher, since it includes salaries, training, equipment, and other benefits |
| Expertise | Professionals with years of experience | It can be limited to the capabilities and skills of the hired employees |
| Availability | 24/7 support and monitoring | Limited to the business working hours |
| Technology | Access to premium tech solutions | Involves extra cost for investing in the needed tech |
Outsourced and Co-Managed Models
Since the businesses of today need a wide variety of services (which depend on the technology they use, their size, and resources), the most common solutions are outsourced IT and co-managed options. In an outsourced IT approach, businesses will rely on experts in this domain, and they will be the ones to handle everything related to IT, which can vary from day-to-day support, security, strategic guidance, maintenance, and proactive monitoring.
On the other hand, the co-managed perspective involves a balance between an internal IT team and the help of an external provider, which will take care of specific IT areas, like cybersecurity, after-hours monitoring, or a special project. For example, Corporate Technologies offers personalized solutions, 24/7 monitoring, and onsite assistance, helping companies address their issues and adopt a proactive approach, while keeping their operations running.
IT Support Readiness Checklist
- Are you dealing with frequent downtime?
- Are the problems solved quickly?
- Is your data safe after an incident?
- Can the current IT support the business growth?
The answers to these questions will help you determine whether it is time to stop using a break/fix model.
FAQs
What Is the Break/Fix IT Support?
The break/fix IT support is the action of calling a specialist when something isn’t working, so they will fix the problem. After identifying and solving the issue, they are paid for their services.
Should Small Businesses Consider Managed IT Services over the Break/Fix Support?
If the goal of companies is to prevent problems rather than fix them once they appear, it is a good idea to consider managed IT services. Managed IT services are partnerships with specialized IT providers in charge of maintaining and monitoring everything related to technology for a predictable monthly fee.
What’s the Sign That I Should Stop Using the Break/Fix Model?
If you are already dealing with downtime, unpredictable IT costs, and more cybersecurity concerns, then these are signs that you are ready for the change.
Will This Change Interrupt the Business Operations?
If you have the help of specialists, they will most likely develop a well-planned transition to minimize disruption.
What Services Do Managed IT Services Provide?
Managed IT services offer a wide variety of services, which depend on the provider. Most are offering robust cybersecurity and 24/7 monitoring, disaster recovery, email security, endpoint protection, backup monitoring, and many more.
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