With a large number of businesses, IT can become quite complex and overwhelming. This includes maintaining networks, keeping them secure, and managing data backups. Outsourcing IT infrastructure management is a strategic business choice for many companies as it allows them to let go of the technical specifics and focus on their core business.
In this blog, we'll take an in-depth look at what outsourced IT infrastructure management is, how it works, and the benefits it provides to businesses looking to scale.
What is IT Infrastructure Management?
Before discussing outsourcing, it’s important to understand what IT infrastructure management entails. IT infrastructure refers to the technology and resources needed to run a company’s IT environment. At its most basic level, it includes hardware (such as servers, storage devices, routers, computers), software (applications and operating systems), networks (such as LAN, WAN, internet connections), and data storage solutions.
IT infrastructure management ensures that all these components work smoothly and securely. It involves tasks such as:
- Monitoring and maintaining networks
- Ensuring servers are up and running with optimal performance
- Backing up critical data and enabling disaster recovery
- Keeping the system secure from security breaches and malware
- Managing hardware and software updates
What is Outsourced IT Infrastructure Management?
Outsourced IT infrastructure management refers to hiring an external service provider to take over the responsibility of managing your company’s IT systems. These providers specialize in maintaining the systems, networks, and hardware that businesses rely on to operate efficiently. Instead of an internal IT team, the service provider takes care of monitoring, troubleshooting, updating, and securing your IT infrastructure.
The outsourcing partner usually offers a range of services, which can include:
- Network Management: Ensuring smooth network operation and maintaining network security and scalability.
- Server Management: Monitoring server health, updating server software, and ensuring backup and recovery mechanisms are in place.
- Data Backup and Disaster Recovery: Managing data storage and backup systems to protect against data loss and providing recovery plans in case of failure.
- Cybersecurity Services: Protect your systems from malware, hacking attempts, and other cyber threats through firewalls, encryption, and constant monitoring.
- Cloud Services Management: Maintaining cloud infrastructure and applications for businesses utilizing cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure.
- Help Desk Support: Offering IT support to employees to resolve any technical issues they may encounter.
By outsourcing, businesses can leave these technical and often time-consuming responsibilities in the hands of experienced professionals, allowing them to focus more on business-critical tasks.
How Does Outsourced IT Infrastructure Management Work?
Generally, when a business outsources the management of its IT infrastructure, the business tends to make an arrangement or service level agreement (SLA) with an external service provider. This agreement specifies what services will be provided, the response times in which issues will be addressed, and expected performance levels.
Here’s how the process works:
Assessment and Setup: First, the service provider will examine the company’s existing IT infrastructure and identify gaps and areas for improvement. After that, they’ll put together a plan to align the IT systems with the business directives.
- 24/7 Monitoring: The provider will continuously monitor the company’s systems for any potential problems, such as security threats or system errors. This monitoring ensures that any issues can be fixed before they cause major disruptions.
- Maintenance and Updates: They will also perform regular maintenance on IT systems, which includes installing new software updates, patching security holes as they appear, and making hardware upgrades, which are often required as time goes on.
- Troubleshooting and Support: If there are any problems, the provider offers technical support and solutions. The availability of this support depends on the agreement and may include round-the-clock support to address issues as soon as they arise.
- Reporting: Service providers typically report the performance of the IT infrastructure in detail. These reports can provide valuable insights into system uptime, how cybersecurity threats were prevented, and what improvements may be needed.
Why Outsourcing IT Infrastructure Management is Beneficial for Growing Businesses
For growing businesses, managing IT infrastructure internally can be both expensive and time-consuming. Here’s why outsourcing is a smart solution:
1. Cost Efficiency
Managing IT infrastructure in-house requires significant financial investments. The costs can add up quickly, from hiring skilled IT professionals to purchasing expensive hardware and software. Additionally, there are ongoing costs for training employees, keeping software licenses up to date, and managing IT upgrades.
By outsourcing, businesses can access a team of IT specialists without having to deal with the overhead of hiring and maintaining an in-house IT department. Outsourcing providers operate on a subscription model, meaning businesses pay only for the services they need, making expenses easier to manage. Moreover, they often bundle advanced tools and software into their service offerings, reducing the need for additional investments.
2. Access to Expertise
Technology is evolving rapidly, and keeping up with the latest trends, tools, and security protocols can be difficult for businesses that don’t specialize in IT. Outsourcing gives businesses access to a team of highly qualified professionals who are experts in their fields. These specialists bring extensive knowledge about the latest technologies and security threats, ensuring that the company’s IT infrastructure is always up to date and well-protected.
Instead of relying on generalists, businesses can benefit from experts in different IT fields—cybersecurity, cloud management, data recovery, and more—without having to build that expertise internally.
3. Focus on Core Competencies
Managing IT systems requires time and effort, especially for businesses that don’t specialize in technology. Instead of diverting valuable resources to solve IT issues or maintain infrastructure, outsourcing allows employees and leadership to focus on their core business objectives.
Whether it’s enhancing customer service, developing new products, or expanding into new markets, having a trusted partner handling IT infrastructure enables teams to stay focused on what they do best.
This shift not only boosts productivity but also contributes to innovation, as key decision-makers aren’t bogged down with operational IT concerns.
4. Improved Security
Cybersecurity threats are a major concern for businesses of all sizes, and smaller businesses can often become easy targets if they lack the resources to protect themselves. Outsourced IT infrastructure management providers have the expertise and tools to safeguard systems from the latest threats. They monitor for suspicious activity, regularly update security protocols, and ensure that patches and updates are applied promptly to close any vulnerabilities.
By outsourcing cybersecurity management, businesses can ensure that they are protected from data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other potential risks that could damage their reputation or result in financial losses.
5. Scalability and Flexibility
As businesses grow, their IT needs inevitably expand. Outsourcing IT infrastructure management provides the flexibility to scale up services as needed, without the need for significant upfront investments in hardware or additional personnel. Whether a company needs more storage, enhanced security protocols, or new applications deployed, outsourced providers can quickly adjust to meet changing demands.
Additionally, outsourcing providers offer flexibility to scale down services if needed, ensuring that businesses are only paying for the IT resources they actually use. This flexibility makes it easier for businesses to manage IT costs, especially in times of fluctuating demand.
6. Reduced Downtime and Increased Reliability
Downtime can be costly for businesses, causing disruptions to operations, lost revenue, and potential damage to the company’s reputation. Outsourced IT providers use advanced monitoring tools and proactive maintenance strategies to ensure that systems are always up and running. They can detect and address potential issues before they escalate into major problems.
Additionally, with 24/7 monitoring and support, companies can expect a quick resolution to technical issues, ensuring business continuity. The reduced downtime and improved system reliability provided by outsourcing partners can have a positive impact on overall productivity.
7. Access to Cutting-Edge Technology
Outsourcing IT infrastructure management provides access to the latest technology without the burden of having to purchase, install, and maintain it yourself. These providers often use the most advanced tools and software to ensure that their clients are benefiting from cutting-edge technology.
This can include enterprise-level solutions for network monitoring, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics—tools that might otherwise be out of reach for smaller businesses.
By leveraging these technologies, businesses can improve their IT performance, enhance security, and stay competitive in the market.
8. Compliance with Industry Standards
In industries such as healthcare, finance, and legal services, there are strict regulatory requirements related to data privacy and security. Non-compliance can result in severe penalties and damage to a company’s reputation.
Outsourced IT providers are well-versed in these regulations and ensure that businesses remain compliant by applying necessary security measures and keeping accurate records of their IT systems.
For businesses that lack the internal resources to manage regulatory compliance, outsourcing can provide peace of mind that they are meeting all industry requirements.
9. Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity
In the event of a natural disaster, hardware failure, or cyberattack, having a disaster recovery plan is essential for maintaining business operations. Outsourced IT infrastructure management providers offer comprehensive disaster recovery and business continuity solutions that ensure your company’s data is backed up and can be quickly restored.
These providers have redundant systems and backup protocols in place, so if one part of the system goes down, operations can continue with minimal disruption. This level of preparedness helps businesses avoid costly downtime and data loss.
Partner With VirtualStaff.ph
If you're looking to not only advance your company's technology but also streamline operations with external support, outsourcing can be a game-changer. For that, VirtualStaff.ph is the ideal solution. Founded by Michael Brodie, this platform connects businesses with highly skilled Filipino professionals ready to work remotely.
With access to a diverse talent pool, you can find the right IT professionals, marketers, designers, and more, all at cost-effective rates due to the lower cost of living in the Philippines. VirtualStaff.ph streamlines the hiring process, saving you time while fostering a supportive community for collaboration and growth.
By outsourcing tasks, you can focus on core business strategies and enjoy the flexibility that remote work offers, ultimately driving your business to greater success.
Final Thoughts
Outsourcing IT infrastructure management is a powerful solution for growing businesses looking to streamline their operations and scale efficiently. It allows companies to benefit from expert-level IT support, reduce costs, improve security, and focus on their core competencies. As technology continues to evolve, outsourcing provides businesses with the flexibility and scalability needed to stay competitive.
Whether your business is just starting out or experiencing rapid growth, outsourcing IT infrastructure management can provide you with the tools and support needed to thrive in today’s digital landscape. Additionally, if you feel the need for external support, outsourcing can be a game-changer. Be sure to check out VirtualStaff.ph for access to skilled professionals ready to assist your business remotely. Book a call today with an expert at VirtualStaff.ph to discuss your team-building needs!
