Managed Services: Fully-Managed vs. Self-Managed… How do you decide?
You hear allot about “Managed Service” : fully-managed, self-managed, cloud-native and more. What does it all mean? Some companies just want to focus on the business — others, like me want to tweak and optimize to get a close handle on revenue, cost and profit. The first step is understanding a bit more about Managed Services.
How do you decide what right for you?
The managed service provider assumes ongoing responsibility for monitoring, managing and/or problem resolution for selected IT systems and functions on your behalf. Services typically include: alerts, monitoring, security, patch management, data backup and recovery, security, and more.
Fully-Managed: The provider will managed the server, virtual private network / cloud, high availability components, service installation, os installation, patches, etc. for you.
Downside: Cost, All these extra support features will come with higher price tag. Limited Solution, There is typically no control over the basic layout. You typically cannot customize your solution.
Self-Managed: You and your team will managed all of the items mentioned above.
Upside: Cost, Your service cost will be much lower but will your over-all cost really be lower in Self-Manged. This will depend on how your team balances operations work vs. RTB — Run the Business. Solution: You have complete control over the architecture and solution you implement. For some, this is the only option.
Is there another option?
Yes, Combine the cost optimization of fully-managed with the customizations on architecture and level of support with a “subscription based — managed service provider.”
You typically pay a flat monthly fee for service. You contract only for the support you need. The work is much more well-defined. There typically is not allot of ambiguity. If you need a wider margin of definition — then stick to traditional staffing services. However, if you needs have clear boundaries are easily understood then a Subscription Partner may be a good option for you.
This offers the best of both world by off-loading day to day task and support while you letting you control the solution, architecture and staffing levels.
For more information, Please contact Advantis Data Services.
