With the coronavirus pandemic pushing businesses to embrace remote work, companies are seeking solutions that will allow them to support their new working methods effectively. One solution is to engage an MSP.
MSPs can provide a help desk for end-user issues and dedicated engineers for more significant problems or maintenance. Depending on the SLA, this can include up to 24/7 support.
Security
In the past, many business leaders viewed IT teams as an afterthought. They were the tech gurus employees called when their computers stopped working, or a printer broke down.
But today, a strong IT department is the backbone of a successful business. And MSPs play a critical role in supporting remote workforces.
MSPs take a proactive approach to managing a client’s IT infrastructure and end-user systems. They help businesses avoid costly and time-consuming system failures through routine maintenance, addressing security concerns before they become more significant problems, and offering solutions to resolve issues quickly and easily.
For example, an MSP may use advanced encryption methods to secure data while it’s being transmitted across networks or stored on servers. They also set up virtual private networks (VPNs) for employees to access company resources remotely without compromising security. They also regularly conduct vulnerability scans to detect and patch outdated software components. This prevents cyber attackers from exploiting these vulnerabilities.
Scalability
If your company depends on a contingent workforce, an MSP, like WorkSmart IT, can advise you on how to structure the process. They can also help you implement a VMS or FMS system to streamline how your organization recruits, pays, and tracks worker wages and other essential details. This helps you avoid risks associated with directly sourced workers, which can cause headaches when trying to stay in compliance with labor laws.
MSPs can handle day-to-day technological problems, such as forgotten passwords or printer issues, as well as more complicated tech maintenance and problems. This frees up your internal IT team to focus on more pressing issues.
A good MSP will also have robust information technology systems that give business leaders visibility into contingent worker data. This allows for better data-driven decision-making and helps you optimize your contingent workforce strategies. You must partner with an MSP that offers these services, as they are essential for supporting remote work.
Convenience
In the case of a remote workforce, MSP teams can monitor network gadgets, servers, and files remotely in real-time to ensure tech issues don’t become significant business disruptions. They can also respond rapidly to users when a device or application fails.
This level of responsiveness is critical during the coronavirus global pandemic when many companies are converting to a fully or partially remote working environment. Additionally, if you rely on an MSP for augmented IT services, looking for one that provides redundancy in their staffing is a good idea.
MSPs that use RMM software are more flexible and available for client support around the clock. They can also help with employee scheduling and other tasks traditionally done by an in-house IT team. This allows them to focus on strategic projects that align with operational and strategic goals. These projects include improving IT infrastructure and implementing new policies for a remote workforce.
Redundancy
With remote working becoming more commonplace, businesses must keep up with technological advancements and ensure their IT infrastructure can handle the increased demand. That’s where MSPs come in. They can offer security measures like VPNs, a secure cloud network, and tools to help remote workers work more efficiently.
MSPs can also be more cost-effective than in-house IT teams. They can scale up networks and systems when necessary without the additional expense of hiring and training new employees.
In addition, MSPs can support remote workers after hours. This can be important if any issues with connectivity or software need to be addressed urgently. It’s worth ensuring that your MSP offers this service before hiring them to help your team stay on track during remote work days.
