Every organization must run on information. Yet, without the right managed cloud service provider your company can fall victim to expensive downtime, data losses, and cyber security threats. Whether your business has transitioned to a hybrid or multi-tenant cloud environment, managed IT services can help to ensure cloud compliance, support your environment, and fill security gaps.
Examples of cloud applications and services
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) is a common cloud service your probably already use in some form, here are the most well-recognized examples:
- Hubspot
- DocuWare
- Amazon Web Services
- Dropbox
- Gmail
- Google Analytics
- Azure
Invariably, there are many other cloud applications and services. For the most part, you can access these services from anywhere with the right credentials and an Internet connection. On the other hand, an administrator needs to manage user access to cloud applications. The good news is with a managed cloud service provider, you don’t have to worry about setup, configuration, drive partitioning, software loading, updates, or security. Further, you have a team who will monitor your cloud services 24/7 and can include employee support.
How does cloud hosting compare?
Cloud hosting usually includes a hosted application, a server and network infrastructure, and is run from a data center with multiple virtual servers for optimal load balancing to reduce downtime. Essentially, you would move your network server to the cloud such as your email server and software so that you can reduce or increase capacity as needed. Your managed IT services partner can also help to load applications locally to the laptops used by your remote workforce.
What about cloud managed services?
Cloud managed services is outsourcing your cloud services monitoring and management to a managed cloud services provider. Unquestionably, you can put your cloud infrastructure in the hands of a highly experienced partner so that you can ensure your cloud environment is effectively monitored, secure, and well-maintained from application stacks to computing to storage and more. Further, managed IT services also includes performance testing, backup and recovery, business continuity services, reporting, and more all with a predictable monthly pricing structure.
Are you considering partnering with a managed cloud service provider? Here are a few benefits you can expect:
1. Cost savings
Not only will you save on paying six-figure salaries for an IT manager alone, but you can also better manage and reduce expensive network maintenance costs. Keeping a full-time IT department is usually too costly and not necessary for small-to-midsize businesses. Outsourcing to a managed IT services partner can help your company save thousands annually.
2. Predictable monthly billing cycles
Regardless of what the economy is doing, it helps to have an idea of upcoming expenses. An IT emergency can wreak havoc on your budget, but emergencies are part of the cost structure when using a cloud managed services provider. Instead of worrying about your IT budget, you can select a fixed monthly plan that is tailored for your unique IT needs.
3. Relevant technology
If there’s one thing that’s true, companies need to invest in future-proofed and relevant technologies to remain competitive in the digital age. However, buying and storing a server farm is expensive and also inefficient for most companies. Moreover, many organizations spend money on unnecessary technologies creating inefficient tech stacks. On the other hand, qualified cloud technicians can offer guidance on the most relevant technologies, and they have the expertise needed for monitoring and maintenance.
4. Custom services
It’s important to know that you can select from several payment plans and services that fit your needs. If your business is in retail, you may only need additional services during busy shopping seasons such as back-to-school and during the holidays.
5. Robust infrastructure
Partnering with a managed cloud services provider means you can enjoy a robust cloud infrastructure with 24/7 monitoring and management. Depending on your service agreement, your service provider can scan for vulnerabilities and update security patches consistently. They can also integrate your preferred policies to align with your company’s objectives.
6. Centralized management
Managing your network from a central repository is much more efficient and convenient compared to checking on multiple systems every day. Centralized management also decreases confusion and redundancy. It’s nice to know you can view cloud service monitoring from a central portal with real-time alerts.
7. Strategic coverage
It’s vital for business continuity to have better control over monitoring, performance, service levels, and maintenance. The longer you work with your managed IT services provider, the more familiar they become with your policies and infrastructure leading to faster response times and more relevant management.
8. Disaster recovery and backup
Downtime is expensive in the always-on world. It’s not just about the service outage, but it’s also about reputation management. Your managed cloud services provider will offer data centers with proven resiliency and redundancy to ensure immediate disaster recovery, backup, and business continuity. As a result, you can count on secure data throughout all your cloud applications. Even in a disaster, your business operations can continue without disruption.
9. Immediate response
Even if you had a full-time IT team, they might not be working when an emergency occurs. However, with managed IT services, you can expect quick response times either remotely or in-person. Expert technicians can be dispatched within the same day.
10. Vendor management
Your cloud managed service provider can also interface with your other vendors to quickly resolve issues on your behalf. They understand what technical questions to ask when it comes to communicating current or potential issues.
Final thought
At SSI, we’re committed to helping your organization utilize expert managed cloud services to effectively manage costs and monitor all your cloud services. We configure, manage, monitor, and protect your cloud infrastructure so that you can focus on what you do best. Are you searching for a trusted managed cloud services provider?
Call us today to learn more about SSI’s cloud managed services.
