Purchasing IT hardware is a major investment for businesses regardless of their size, and it makes sense to seek the best deal. However, price should not be the only consideration when shopping for IT hardware; finding dependable solutions that are suited to the business’s unique IT environment is just as important.
Many businesses find that purchasing their IT hardware from a managed service provider (MSP) is a smart solution. Here is a closer look at why this approach is worth considering.
MSPs Have a Financial Incentive To Ensure Hardware Is Dependable
Although businesses can purchase hardware directly, no one has a greater incentive than their MSP to ensure they obtain durable and reliable hardware.
While computer stores stand to gain more money if a business’s hardware breaks and salespeople are mostly concerned with their commission, an MSP charges a business the same rate each month for IT support regardless of the number of problems they encounter.
Therefore, ensuring a business has as few hardware issues as possible is their top priority as it directly impacts their bottom line.
MSPs Understand The Right Technology For a Business’s Needs
MSPs tend to work with businesses operating in similar verticals, which means that they can recommend technology that works well for a business’s specific situation. Their experience working with multiple clients provides them with valuable insight into common problems with IT hardware in general as well as the challenges faced by specific types of customers.
For example, many businesses must adhere to industry regulations, especially if they operate in healthcare, manufacturing, or finance. MSPs know which hardware has worked well for previous customers who must follow the same regulations.
Their insight into the right storage, servers, and firewall solutions can help a company make informed decisions and invest its money wisely in useful and compliant technological solutions.
MSPs Have Access To Business-Grade Equipment
Many businesses inadvertently purchase the wrong equipment when attempting to buy IT hardware on their own. The most common mistake is buying consumer-grade equipment, which is not designed to withstand the heavy demands of business.
However, MSPs have access to enterprise-grade devices. These may carry a higher price tag than their consumer-grade counterparts, but they are designed to stand the test of time and perform under pressure.
Consumer-grade hardware, in contrast, can be less expensive to purchase, but for businesses, often costs more in the long run when factoring in additional support and related expenses, in addition to the potential for costly downtime. Moreover, consumer-grade solutions are not always compatible with other elements of a commercial IT environment.
Billing Can Be Streamlined
Accounting can be very time-consuming, and most businesses welcome reducing the amount of paperwork and invoices they must contend with each month. Although hardware is not generally included in the cost of a contract with an MSP, as a time saver, it can be included on the monthly bill.
Moreover, businesses can gauge how much they can expect to spend on software by looking at their annual contract price; many MSPs tell businesses they can expect to spend 10 to 20% of their annual contract price on hardware.
Ongoing Customer Service
An MSP can serve as a liaison between a business and the hardware manufacturers. If a component breaks or does not operate as expected, the MSP will be responsible for contacting the manufacturer and obtaining replacements.
They can also provide technical support for any IT issues that arise with the hardware. When encountering problems, businesses can contact their MSP directly for assistance. The MSP will draw on their vast maintenance skills and knowledge to ensure the new hardware remains as functional and useful as possible.
MSPs are Familiar With Their Customers’ IT Environment
Another reason businesses should purchase hardware from their IT managed service provider is to capitalize on their familiarity with the company’s IT environment.
After monitoring and maintaining the business’s IT environment around the clock for weeks, months, and even years, MSPs possess an in-depth knowledge of the functions and configurations used and therefore have unparalleled insight into which technology is right for the business and its current infrastructure.
MSPs can recommend novel solutions to make operations more efficient and profitable, but they can also recognize when the newest technology is not the best solution. For example, for companies with older technology or unique challenges, their MSP can advise them on the right solution to meet their needs.
It Can Save Time
Time is a valuable resource that cannot be renewed. Companies can properly utilize this resource by relying on an MSP for the laborious tasks of researching IT hardware, identifying the right products to suit the business’s needs, comparing prices, negotiating with vendors, and installing new hardware.
MSPs know where to source hardware and other materials and are prepared to install new hardware quickly and with minimal disruptions.
Contact Advantage Technology To Discuss Your Hardware Needs
If your business is looking for a trusted partner to manage IT needs, from hardware and software to security and maintenance, contact the professionals at Advantage Tech. Our team is prepared to ensure your systems operate optimally around the clock to ensure maximum productivity for your company.
