Managed IT Services

More than 'IT Support'

Managed IT Services can be synonymous with IT Support, but they are different; here's how:

For a school or a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT), fully understanding their IT needs before deciding between IT Support and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) is crucial for several reasons. These organisations have unique requirements, and the choice between these two service models can significantly impact their operational efficiency, educational capabilities, and financial planning. In essence, a Managed Service Provider delivers a comprehensive range of Managed IT Services, while IT support providers focus solely on offering support services.

Managed IT Services

IT Support

  • Helpdesk Support:
    Providing SLA'd support to address IT issues, ensuring minimal downtime and disruption to educational activities.

  • Technical Support for Staff and Students:
    Offering technical assistance and training to educators and students, ensuring they can effectively use educational technology and resources.

  • Network Setup and Maintenance:
    Designing and maintaining a robust, secure network infrastructure that supports the school's digital learning tools, administrative operations, and communication platforms.

  • Hardware and Software Management:
    Procuring, installing, and managing hardware and software, ensuring that educational and operational tools are up-to-date and running efficiently.

Strategic

  • Strategic Planning and Advisory:
    MSPs often act as strategic partners, offering guidance on how to align IT infrastructure and services with Trust/School goals. This includes technology roadmaps, compliance advice, and digital transformation strategies.

  • Comprehensive Security and Compliance:
    With cybersecurity threats evolving rapidly, MSPs provide robust security measures, including regular updates, monitoring, and compliance management to protect sensitive data and systems.

  • Scalability and Flexibility:
    Managed Services are designed to scale with the growth of the Trust/School, providing flexible solutions that can adapt to changing needs without significant upfront investments.

Proactivity

  • Proactive Approach:
    Focuses on preventing problems before they occur through continuous monitoring and management of IT infrastructure.

  • Scope and Services:
    Offers a comprehensive suite of services including network management, cybersecurity, data backup and recovery, and cloud services. Managed Services Providers (MSPs) often take a holistic view of a Trust’s IT environment.

  • Client Relationship:
    Characterised by a partnership approach, where the MSP works closely with the Trust/School to align IT services with curriculum and operational goals, often including strategic planning and advice.

Finance

  • Billing Model:
    Typically operates on a fixed monthly fee, offering predictable costs and often tailored service packages based on the client's needs.

  • Cost Efficiency:
    Over time, the proactive approach of Managed Services can lead to significant cost savings by reducing downtime, improving operational efficiency, and preventing costly emergencies through regular maintenance and monitoring.

  • Return on Investment (ROI):
    The strategic advisory and planning services offered by MSPs can enhance the ROI of IT investments by ensuring that technology aligns with business objectives and drives growth or efficiency gains.

  • Scalability:
    As Trusts/Schools grow, Managed Services can easily scale up or down, ensuring that IT costs align closely with current needs without over-investment in infrastructure or staff.