Do you only call IT when something goes wrong? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and many small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are in the same boat using a break-fix approach. Today, we’re comparing this old-school model with managed IT services and support, and breaking down why the latter is the smarter choice for Kiwi businesses in the long run. So, let’s get into it.
What’s Break-Fix IT?
The break-fix model involves a pay as you go, reactive service. While it might seem cheaper because it takes the form of one-off payments when a problem arises, it can also lead to unpredictable costs, a higher risk of extended downtime, and a lack of strategic guidance – so your IT isn’t aligned with your goals or keeping you secure.
What are Managed IT Services?
In comparison, managed IT services deliver monitoring, proactive maintenance, and unlimited helpdesk assistance for a cost-effective fixed monthly fee. Your IT partner works to identify and resolves issues in the background before they bring your operations to a halt, and when you need help, they’re always there so you can quickly move past roadblocks. It’s like having an in-house tech team that keeps everything running smoothly and securely, so you can focus on your business.
Managed IT Services vs the Break-Fix Model
Now we’ve covered the basics, let’s break down the key differences.
| Break-Fix IT | Managed IT Services | |
| Cost | You’re dealing with unpredictable one-off costs. | You receive services for a predictable, cost-effective monthly fee. |
| Support | You call for support after something breaks. | You can access 24/7 support, no matter the size of the problem so your team isn’t left troubleshooting frustrating issues. |
| Security | You get reactive support after you encounter an issue or a cyber attack happens. | You benefit from proactive monitoring and stronger defences, so you’re safeguarded against attacks and can support cyber security compliance. |
| Strategy | There’s no strategy in place, only reactions to issues. | You get a comprehensive technology roadmap that’s built around your needs and business goals. |
| Scalability | You get short-term fixes as changes pop up. | Your services can seamlessly grow with your business. |
The Benefits of Managed IT Services
- Managed IT services stop small problems snowballing into something serious. As a result, you can avoid prolonged downtime which seriously affects Kiwi SMBs and can lead to lost revenue, halted productivity, and damaged customer relationships.
- You can reduce cyber security risks, which is essential as cyber attacks become more common and complex in the age of AI. Your tech partner can implement strong defences, deliver swift response when a risk arises, ensure you’ve got regular data backups to support business continuity, and help you meet cyber security compliance frameworks.
- You can reduce costs and avoid paying an unpredictable sum when something breaks.
- Your tech partner can help you to streamline processes and help you get more out of your IT, which drives productivity and efficiency.
How Tribe Makes Smarter Business Possible
At Tribe we’re committed to helping Kiwi businesses work smarter and safer with managed services and IT support, and we’ve got the know-how and people to make it happen. We’re also 100% New Zealand owned and operated with offices in Auckland, Hawke’s Bay, and Christchurch, so you can rely on a team that truly understands the needs of local businesses.
When you join the Tribe, you benefit from:
- An end-to-end approach: We deliver top-notch managed IT that’s tailored to your business, and we can also provide complete solutions for your tech needs spanning AI and modern work, consultancy and strategy, cyber security, and BambooHR.
- A better together ethos: We’re not just another outsourced IT provider; we become part of your team. You can even count on working with a dedicated group of experts throughout your journey, ensuring you’re supported by people who understand your business as well as you do at each step.
- Unlimited service desk support: No extra fees here, just reliable, fast support so you can get back to work. Our service desk even boasts a customer satisfaction score of 98, and we think it might just be the best in New Zealand.
- Advanced cyber security: Cyber security is non-negotiable, so it’s part and parcel of our managed IT services. You’re protected with advanced, comprehensive protection including staff training, proactive monitoring, threat detection, and rapid response. Our solutions keep your people, information, and tech safe.
- Regular check-ins: There’s no set and forget solutions here. Your IT should evolve with your business’ needs and goals, so we catch up regularly and deliver ongoing reporting so you stay in the know and we stay on the ball.
- People-focused IT: We work alongside your team and design solutions with you, because we know it’s key to get better results, deliver seamless outcomes, and make things easier for your people.
How We Can Help
Ready to reap the benefits of managed IT services and get ahead? Put your business in safe hands with our trusted advice, tried and tested solutions, and tailored approach. If you’d like to learn more about our managed IT services, you can learn more here or get in touch with our team for a chat today.
