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| by Allen Falcon |
While managed service providers have been around since the early 1990’s, this form of outsourced network administration and support services has only gained popularity within the past year or so. For many companies, a managed services provider offers a more cost-effective solution for outsourcing network administration and user support and/or augmenting internal staff. For those not familiar with the term with respect to information technology and services, “Managed Services” is a method for providing active network and systems administration, user support, and other services, usually over the Internet. As opposed to vendors that offered scheduled on-site services or respond to project requests and problems, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) generally monitor customers’ networks, servers, and workstations over the Internet and actively manage the environments to prevent problems. When problems do arise, MSPs attempt to resolve the problem remotely; they dispatch staff on-site only when needed. Managed Services are more effective now, as remote diagnostic and control capabilities are built-in to most computers and operating systems. As such, most MSPs do not need to run intrusive ‘agents’ on every computer. Managed Services differ from traditional service and support vendors. While MSPs offer advantages, the solution is not necessarily better for all companies.
Traditional Service and Support Vendors ...
Managed Service Providers ...
In addition to monitoring, remote support, and active administration, MSPs offer a set, predictable fee on a month-to-month basis. This structure and technology, however, often limit options for customers with unique needs. Traditional service and support providers are often better able to adjust service options to individual customer needs, but may lack the tools and methods for active monitoring and administration. Which solution is best depends on your company’s computer networks and systems configuration; hours of operation; support expectations and needs; and budget. Selecting the right vendor type should follow an examination of your infrastructure, business operations, and budget. |
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Recent trade articles bemoan the lack of qualified
resources available to small and mid-size
businesses, with most of the hand-ringing focusing
on network and systems administration. While we
agree
that much of the network and systems talent on the
market is mediocre at best, quality individuals and
service providers are not difficult to find.
In our experience, most of the current technology angst is application driven. We see small and mid- size companies struggling to roll out, use, and support specific business applications. Whether a financial, CRM, web site, or transaction processing system, we see companies struggling to find and manage the technical resources needed for success. What is your greatest technology frustration or challenge? Email me and let me know. |
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Optima Worlwide Shipping
By combining a few packages a day from hundreds of
businesses, Optima Worldwide shares
significant discounts on shipping fees with its
customers.
With a web-based system to ship and track packages, Optima can discount shipping fees well beyond the discounts normally offered from the carriers themselves. In addition, Optima delivers a broader range of services, including same-day and next-day regional courier services. |
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benefit from Strategic Technology
Horizons? If so, please forward this issue.
Interested in past issues? Click here for the archives.
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