For any business, but especially a small business, the decision to outsource IT support can be a game-changer and transform your business.
However, as with any strategic business move, it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. As the modern business world continues to move online and cyber security remains at the top of every business owners mind, perhaps it’s time for you to consider the pros and cons of outsourcing your small business IT support.
Pros of outsourcing IT support
Cut costs
One of the most compelling reasons to outsource IT support is to save money because outsourcing can significantly reduce software development costs. Rather than investing in expensive IT infrastructure and specialists, you pay a fixed fee to a service provider who takes care of all your IT needs. This can help you budget and reduce operational costs.
Access to expertise and specialised knowledge
Outsourcing businesses, such as The IT Agency, specialise in IT support, employing experts whose job it is to stay up to date with the latest technologies and industry trends. This means you have access to all the benefits of a world class software development team without having to recruit, train and retain them yourself.
Save time by not having to hire specialists
Hiring IT specialists can be a time-consuming and complicated, especially if your business isn’t tech based. When you outsource, you not only avoid the hiring process, but you also gain immediate access to a team of professionals ready to start working on your projects. This saves time while ensuring your IT operations aren’t affected by staffing issues.
Access to the global talent pool
Outsourcing removes geographical boundaries, opening up a global pool of talent. As you’re no longer limited by geography, the best talent from anywhere in the world is available. And your business benefits from diverse perspectives and expertise.
Scalability and flexibility
Outsourcing allows you the flexibility to scale your team size up or down based on your business needs. During peak periods, you can quickly ramp up your team size and then scale down when necessary. All without the hassle and costs associated with hiring and firing.
Team management
With outsourcing, you get a fully managed team. The outsourcing business handles all the administrative tasks – which may include payroll, benefits and HR – leaving you free to focus on your core business.
Concentrate on your core business
You can concentrate on what you do best – your core business activities – by leaving the technical stuff to the experts.
Professional and reliable remote support
Your service provider should also offer professional remote support, meaning you have help when you need it. And all without the need for an in-house IT team. This can be beneficial for those businesses operating outside traditional business hours or with offices across multiple time zones.
24/7 help
While most outsourcing businesses will offer 24/7 support, it’s always a good idea to check. This means issues are resolved promptly, minimising downtime and disruptions. As with remote support, 24/7 help can prove invaluable for businesses operating around the clock or with customers in different time zones.
Cons of outsourcing IT support
Reduce control
Outsourcing your IT support means you’ll be giving up a certain amount of control over the process and management of your IT. If you enjoy a more hands-on approach with your business, this may prove to be a major drawback. However, our teams prefers nurturing more transparent and co-operative working relationships with clients by working with business owners to determine how much control they want to retain.
Potential communication and cultural barriers
Differences in time zones, language and even work culture can pose challenges if you choose to work with an offshore team. You may be exposing your business to potential misunderstandings and miscommunications which could impact project timelines and outcomes. With The IT Agency’s head office located in Sydney, Australia, the risk of these problems occurring is considerably reduced.
Unexpected provider costs
While outsourcing can certainly save you money, there can also be hidden or unexpected costs. These can include costs for additional services, changes in project scope or simply the usual fluctuations in currency exchange rates. For these reasons, it’s important you understand the terms of your contract to avoid any nasty surprises.
Lack of experience working with remote teams
If you’ve never worked with a remote team before, there can be a steep learning curve. It takes time to establish effective communication and collaboration practices which, in the short term at least, can impact productivity and project timelines. To overcome this, The IT Agency assigns the appropriate tech to address any issues you may have.
Longer downtime for hardware issues
While software issues can usually be resolved remotely, hardware issues may need on-site support. This can lead to longer downtimes, especially if your service provider isn’t local to your offices or place of business. That’s why it’s important to have not only a contingency plan in place, but to also buy a suitable warranty to support your hardware items. While minor hardware issues can be resolved remotely, major hardware issues should be addressed by the manufacturer.
There’s no denying there’s many benefits for small businesses deciding to outsource their IT support. From saving money and accessing expert talent right through to being able to focus on your own core business activities. However, it’s just as important to understand the potential challenges like communication issues and a loss of control. By using this guide and listing your own set of pros and cons, you’ll be able to make an informed decision to best suit your business needs.
If you want to chat with us as you decide if outsourcing your IT support is the right choice for your small business, our team of experts is ready to assist.
