A common challenge faced by many small to mid-sized companies is their inability to effectively micro-manage their network. These organizations often find themselves understaffed and lacking the necessary skills, technological capacity, or resources to keep their networks operating at optimal levels.
Maintaining an efficient network is no small feat, especially with the convergence of voice and data. Companies frequently become so engrossed in daily operations that crucial network maintenance and security management fall by the wayside. In today’s business landscape, it’s essential to remain vigilant. Numerous threats and issues can compromise network integrity and performance. So, what should companies do? One viable solution is to outsource their network management services to a qualified partner.
Managed network services are specifically designed to help companies maintain and support their network and IT infrastructure. Services may include 24/7 remote network monitoring and reporting, firewall monitoring, intrusion detection, patch assessment, vulnerability scanning, preventive tasks, disaster recovery, data backup, and regular performance analysis. This strategic approach offers a comprehensive view of the network at all times, ensuring optimal utilization. As we all know, the network is the backbone of a business, and improper management can quickly lead to decreased employee productivity and profitability.
Outsourcing network management brings numerous unique benefits. First and foremost, field experts analyze the network to create a comprehensive game plan. Modeling and simulation tools assess current network traffic and evaluate the performance of proposed enhancements and upgrades, determining the most suitable solution before implementation. The result is a custom-designed system that accommodates future growth and change through flexible and scalable network environments.
Beyond the installation, testing, and training phases, the provider will remotely monitor the network from their Network Operations Center (NOC). The NOC offers advanced network control, systems management, and help desk operations to ensure optimal performance daily. This is a critical component, as networks are highly susceptible to daily changes. For example, in one case, two employees uploaded webcam software onto the network to watch their children at daycare. The live video stream overwhelmed the entire network, crippling productivity for the day. Remote monitoring would have proactively identified both the problem and the appliance causing the issue.
Your business communications provider should also pair their managed services with the new approach to technology procurement. This is essentially a leasing option for new equipment and applications that eliminates technology’s two greatest risks—obsolescence and price (or outright ownership). This program guarantees that the solutions under managed services are updated with the latest advancements, effectively preventing obsolescence. For instance, updates (or refreshes) to a company’s voice and data system can occur any time after 24 months without altering their monthly payment. Additionally, labor charges and software upgrades are waived. The program also emphasizes the cost of technology rather than its price, shifting technology costs from a capital expense to a fixed monthly expense covered by an organization’s operating budget. This enhances financial health from both tax and budgeting perspectives.
Ultimately, managed services empower small to mid-sized companies to concentrate on their core competencies, while providing peace of mind that their network is being managed by a skilled team of experts dedicated to efficiency and productivity. This strategic approach alleviates stress for IT managers in understaffed departments and allows owners to focus on working on their business rather than in it. If your business communications provider doesn’t offer managed services that mitigate the two greatest risks associated with technology, it’s time to reassess your relationship.
ABOUT IMAGINE TECHNOLOGY GROUP
Imagine Technology Group (ITG) is an Arizona-owned and operated company providing our customers with a single point of contact for all their office technology needs. ITG offers a wide array of document management solutions, workflow improvements, multi-function devices, VoIP phone systems, digital signage, managed network services, and IT solutions. Through our manufacturers’ National Programs, we can deliver service and support anywhere in the world. Our goal is to be our customers’ “ONE SOURCE” for any office technology solution they may require. With top-notch customer service from well-trained employees, ITG manages your technology so you don’t have to. To learn more about our products, services, and support, please contact ITG at 602-454-0720 or submit an inquiry at itgarizona.com/contact-us.














