How CIOs can optimise IT equipment costs through managed services

Opting to use a managed services provider (MSP) to install and oversee your IT and networking equipment can save up to 30% on costs for your company. IT assets can be complicated, especially for large enterprises with multiple branches and hundreds of employees. An MSP will offer a professional service with round-the-clock support and detailed service level agreements (SLAs).

Chief Information Officers (CIOs) and similar jobs will be required to optimise the efficiency of IT assets to drive productivity while using the most affordable technology. Rather than going it alone and trying to manage a complex ecosystem of networking, cloud, communications and connectivity equipment, department leaders should seek the help of renowned MSPs.

Why CIOs should consider MSPs

According to a recent survey conducted by SoftwareOne, 83% of CIOs are under pressure to minimise IT equipment costs while still delivering on their companies’ digital transformation objectives. Similarly, chief financial officers (CFOs) are expected to oversee the expenditure of IT assets, installation costs and the expense of ongoing management of these systems.

In South Africa, this pressure is even greater as load-shedding, a weakening currency and the threat of further interest rate hikes all impact IT expenditure. Local companies need to be smart about their IT equipment, so turning to an MSP could be the answer for those businesses that are looking to maximise their spend with minimal stress.

When it comes to IT infrastructure and equipment, large companies cannot afford to stand still. Future-proofing a company requires new technologies and investment; legacy infrastructure needs to be updated and replaced, which falls into the lap of CIOs. A reputable MSP will be able to offer the latest technologies and equipment, including the installation and setup thereof, which takes the pressure off the IT managers and CFOs.

Benefits of using an MSP for IT equipment

There are numerous advantages to partnering with a professional MSP to manage and oversee your IT assets. These include the following:

1) Cost savings - As discussed, outsourcing IT management to an MSP can help to reduce IT expenditure and the need to expand your in-house IT teams. An MSP will be able to provide world-class services, expertise, guidance and support at a lower cost than if you were to handle these aspects in-house.

2) Improved budgeting - CFOs will be able to better predict budgets for IT equipment as MSPs offer fixed monthly fees for their services. These pricing models allow CFOs to avoid unexpected expenses and work within their assigned budget constraints.

3) Access to expertise - MSPs are IT experts with a wealth of knowledge and experience in setting up and managing IT ecosystems. They can leverage their expertise to ensure that your IT assets perform optimally while offering constant support if needed.

4) Scalability - As companies grow, their IT needs will evolve and become more complex. An MSP will be able to ensure scalability and continuity to meet the changing technological demands placed on successful businesses.

5) Proactive maintenance - MSPs will proactively monitor and maintain a company’s IT ecosystem. They will identify issues and offer fast resolutions before these problems become more serious. This helps to prevent system downtime and also ensures that the technology is always working as expected.

CIOs and business leaders looking to optimise their IT systems and assets should find a reputable local MSP like SEACOM. The above benefits will ensure business success and help to reduce the overall costs of IT equipment. This will help to keep your company competitive and optimise your IT ecosystem for success. For more information about our managed services or to get a quote, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM owns Africa’s most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including subsea cables and secure internet connections. We offer a diverse range of flexible, scalable and high-quality solutions for businesses that meet world-class standards for connectivity.

SEACOM is privately owned and operated, making it agile and adaptable to the needs of the customer. This makes us the preferred ICT and internet connectivity partner for African businesses and peripheral service providers. We can guarantee high-speed, low-latency and secure internet connections to corporates and small enterprises.

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