The debate between in-house and co-managed IT services has been around for a long time. Businesses are constantly trying to decide which option is better for them. Co-managed IT services involve working with an outside company to help manage your IT needs. In-house IT services involve an in-house team that manages all your IT needs. Both options offer their own set of pros and cons. Here is a closer look at in-house and co-managed IT services to help you decide which option is best for your business.
Cost Comparison
These two options can vary greatly in cost. For instance, an in-house team will require a salary for each team member. You will also need to factor in benefits and other associated costs. On the other hand, co-managed IT services will usually charge you a monthly fee. This fee is often all-inclusive and covers everything from support to maintenance. Regarding cost, co-managed IT services are usually the more affordable option. Let us take a closer look at how the two compare service costs.
1. Co-Managed IT Services Cost
Regarding IT services, one pays in two folds; MSP and Internal IT support. Irrespective of the MSPs you hire, you will have to pay them and also cater for the salary of the in-house IT personnel. Adding these costs together will be more expensive than a single co-managed IT service provider.
Pros
Co-managed IT services offer several cost advantages. For instance, you enjoy economies of scale as the provider can serve multiple clients. This allows them to spread their costs over a larger base, making their services more affordable. In addition, these providers often offer all-inclusive packages that cover everything from support to maintenance. This can help you save a lot of money as you will not have to worry about paying for separate services.
2. In-House IT Services Cost
In-house IT services can be quite costly. For instance, you will need to factor in salaries, benefits, and other associated costs. In addition, you will need to purchase or lease the necessary equipment. This can be quite expensive, especially if you need to update your equipment regularly. In addition, you will need to factor in the cost of training for your staff. This can add up quickly, making in-house IT services quite costly.
Some cons are associated with the cost of co-managed IT services. For instance, if you have a small business, you may not be able to get the economies of scale that larger businesses enjoy. In addition, you may have to pay for some services you do not need. For instance, if you only need support for your email system, you may pay for support for other systems you do not use.
Service Comparison
Now that we have looked at the cost of in-house and co-managed IT services let us look at each option’s services.
1. Co-Managed IT Services
Co-managed IT services offer some advantages. These include:
The ability to scale up or down quickly: Co-managed IT services are very flexible. You can easily scale up or down as your needs change. This can be very beneficial for businesses that experience sudden spikes in demand.
A higher level of expertise: When you work with a co-managed IT service provider, you will have access to a higher level of expertise. This is because these providers often employ teams of highly skilled IT professionals. In addition, they often have access to the latest tools and technologies. This can be very beneficial for businesses that need access to the latest IT advancements.
A good blend with in-house services: Co-managed IT services offer a good blend of in-house and outsourced services. This can be very beneficial for businesses that want to keep some aspects of their IT in-house.
It is, however, important to note some cons like:
The lack of control: When you work with a co-managed IT service provider, you must share some control over your IT. This can be an issue for businesses that want complete control over their IT.
The need to build trust: When you work with a co-managed IT service provider, you will need to build trust with them. This can be an issue for businesses that are not used to working with outsourced providers.
2. In-House IT Services
In-house IT services come with several merits. These include:
The ability to maintain complete control: When you opt for in-house IT services, you can maintain complete control over your IT. This can be very beneficial for businesses that want complete control over their IT.
The lack of need to build trust: When you opt for in-house IT services, you will not need to build trust with an outsourced provider. This can be very beneficial for businesses that are not used to working with outsourced providers.
It is, however important to note some cons like:
The high cost: In-house IT services can be quite costly. This is because you will need to factor in the cost of salaries, benefits, and other associated costs. In addition, you will need to purchase or lease the necessary equipment. This can end up being quite expensive, especially if you need to update your equipment on a regular basis.
The lack of flexibility: In-house IT services can be quite inflexible. This is because you will need to maintain a certain level of staff to keep your IT running. This can be an issue for businesses that experience sudden spikes in demand.
Availability Comparison
Now that we have looked at the cost and service comparisons let us look at the availability of in-house and co-managed IT services.
1. Co-Managed IT Services
Co-managed IT services offer a number of advantages when it comes to availability. These include:
Availability of augmented services: You can access augmented services when you work with a co-managed IT service provider. Your provider can supplement your in-house staff with additional resources as needed. This can be very beneficial during periods of high demand.
Flexible staffing: Co-managed IT service providers often offer flexible staffing arrangements. This means that you can scale up or down as needed. This can be very beneficial for businesses that experience sudden spikes in demand.
2. In-House IT Services
In-house IT services offer a number of advantages when it comes to availability. These include:
The ability to maintain complete control: When you opt for in-house IT services, you can maintain complete control over your IT. This can be very beneficial for businesses that want complete control over their IT.
You don’t have to wait: When you opt for in-house IT services, you will not have to wait for an outsourced provider to become available. This can be very beneficial for businesses needing immediate IT access.
Conclusion
Both in-house and co-managed IT services have their advantages and disadvantages. As such, it is important to carefully consider your needs before deciding. If you need complete control over your IT, then in-house IT services may be your best option. However, co-managed IT services may be the better choice if you need augmented services or flexible staffing. If you are looking for a great example of one you can check out MyTek to see if they can give you a hand.
