Have you been expanding your business, only to find yourself entangled in an increasingly complex web of technologies, regulations and operational intricacies? You’re not alone. From managing IT infrastructures to ensuring data security and compliance, the demands on businesses have never been greater. As different facets of business grow more specialized, companies are grappling with the challenge of managing everything in-house.
Amidst this complexity, managed services can offer an ideal solution. They provide businesses with expert support tailored to tackle specific challenges. By outsourcing certain functions, organizations can focus on their core competencies while benefiting from streamlined efficiency.
What Are Managed Services?
Managed services for businesses refer to the practice of outsourcing certain functions and responsibilities to a third-party service provider. These services are typically delivered proactively and remotely with the aim of improving operations and cutting costs for the client business. Though managed services are often IT-related, the concept of managed services can extend beyond IT to encompass various other functions and areas of business. Here are some examples:
- Supply chain management – Companies may engage third-party logistics (3PL) providers to manage various aspects of their supply chain, including transportation, warehousing, inventory management and order fulfillment.
- Marketing and communications services – Some companies outsource their marketing and communications activities to dedicated agencies that specialize in areas such as social media management, content creation and even internal communications.
- Data analytics services – With the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making, businesses are turning to managed service providers for help with data analytics initiatives. Managed data analytics services encompass data management, analysis, visualization and insights generation to help organizations derive value from their data.
- Human resources (HR) services – Businesses often outsource certain HR functions such as payroll processing, benefits administration, recruitment and employee training to specialized HR service providers.
- Customer support and call center services – Many businesses outsource customer support and call center operations to specialized service providers to handle customer inquiries, complaints and technical support requests.
Why Managed Services Are Critical for Modern Businesses
From streamlining operations to enhancing communications, managed services can effectively tackle some of the most prevalent challenges faced by businesses today. Let’s explore the transformative power and tangible benefits of leveraging managed services across various industries.
Cost Savings and Expense Control
Many companies cite the lower cost of managed services as one of the primary benefits. Instead of hiring and training full-time employees to handle specific tasks, businesses can pay a predictable monthly fee for managed services, which can be more cost effective in the long run.
Utilizing a managed service provider also gives you a measure of protection against cost escalation and shortages. As the market fluctuates, costs can quickly inflate and eat into your profit, especially if you operate with narrow margins. With a wide supplier network and inside industry information, the MSP can get ahead of problems to provide your business with stability.
Greater Focus on Core Business Activities
Managed services provide businesses with access to specialized expertise that they may not have in-house. Service providers typically have a team of experienced professionals with expertise in areas such as IT, cybersecurity and finance, allowing businesses to benefit from their knowledge and experience.
By outsourcing non-core functions to managed service providers, businesses can free up internal resources to focus on core business activities that drive growth and innovation. This allows businesses to allocate their time and resources more effectively and strategically.
Backup or Contingency Operations
If a supplier goes down, ceases operations or otherwise can’t fill your order, do you have a contingency plan in place? What about a backup plan for business operations? What will happen if an office needs to close? How will this impact your customers?
Leaders need to look at not only how to improve operations, but how to cover gaps when a crisis occurs. MSPs provide a backup plan the company can count on, offer flexibility and additional resources when needed, and help cover gaps without impacting existing operations.
Solutions for Improved Efficiency
Managed service providers often have access to advanced tools, technologies and best practices that can help businesses improve efficiency and productivity. Whether it's automating repetitive tasks, implementing streamlined processes or optimizing IT infrastructure, managed services can help businesses operate more efficiently.
Most providers will start engagement with a business by conducting an assessment. The goal of the assessment is to identify current problems and inefficiencies and develop solutions that better meet business goals.
Performance Metrics for Business Growth
Many businesses struggle with a disconnect between their business goals and day-to-day operations. You can bridge this gap with the right business metrics. Whether it’s production, sales calls or customer service, operational metrics provide a snapshot of efficiency, productivity and quality.
These metrics help flag processes that fall short, allowing you to course-correct and align your operations with your objectives. By identifying metrics tied to growth, you gain vital insight into the success of your efforts so you can maximize your growth potential.
Start Growing Business and Reducing Costs with Managed Services
At GO2 Partners, our managed service projects start with a review process of your existing operations.
This could include your technology, workflows, communications, and/or your supply chain and distribution network. For supplies, technology and services, GO2 taps into the market to identify and target the most beneficial resources. We leverage supplier relationships, market intelligence, buying power and industry experience to help you reduce expenses and overall inventory, while providing critical supplies to your enterprise.
In other words, you and your business work with only the best, and at a much lower cost than if you brought the work or service in-house.
If you have additional questions about managed services or would like to schedule time to talk about your business needs, then contact GO2 Partners today.
