Should You Hire an MSP or Build an Internal IT Team?

Science & Technology

Introduction

When it comes to managing your business's IT needs, you might be faced with a critical decision: should you hire a Managed Service Provider (MSP) or develop an internal IT team? In this article, we will delve into the primary differences between these two options, discussing the benefits and drawbacks of each to help you determine what is best for your organization.

Understanding MSPs and Internal IT Teams

A Managed Service Provider (MSP) is an outsourced IT company that handles various technological needs for businesses, ranging from cybersecurity to network maintenance and troubleshooting. They provide support for technical issues and can often deliver expertise across multiple environments and industries.

On the other hand, an internal IT team consists of employees who manage the organization's IT infrastructure directly. They are responsible for addressing technical problems, maintaining networks, and ensuring that all technological systems are running smoothly.

Key Differences

  1. Cost Structure

    • Internal IT Team: Employing an internal IT professional often comes with benefits like a steady paycheck, healthcare, and other employee perks. However, this can lead to higher overall costs, especially as your company's needs grow.
    • MSP: Typically, MSPs operate on a subscription-based model, charging fees based on users or devices. This approach often provides more flexibility and can be more economical than hiring an internal team.

  2. Scalability

    • An internal IT person can reach capacity and may require the hiring of additional staff once their expertise or time is limit. This can place financial strain on the business.
    • Conversely, MSPs can scale their services based on client growth, making it easier for businesses to adapt without the need for additional hiring costs.

  3. Expertise

    • Internal IT professionals might possess excellent knowledge of their specific environment, but often lack the broad experience that comes from managing various business environments and technologies.
    • MSPs, on the other hand, work with numerous clients across different industries, allowing them to gather considerable knowledge and expertise, particularly regarding cybersecurity and emerging technologies.

  4. Response Time and Availability

    • Internal IT staff may have limited availability due to vacations or personal commitments, which can leave businesses vulnerable during off-hours.
    • MSPs generally offer quick response times and rely on a team structure to ensure coverage, so you can expect assistance even when someone is unavailable.

  5. Technological Tools

    • Internal IT teams may not always have access to the latest technologies and tools unless significant investing in continued education and resources is prioritized by the organization.
    • In comparison, MSPs frequently stay updated on industry trends and technologies due to their work with multiple clients, enabling them to implement the best practices and solutions readily.

Conclusion

Deciding between hiring an MSP or fostering an internal IT team depends heavily on your business's specific needs, size, and growth trajectory. While hiring an internal team may offer a level of control and familiarity, leveraging an MSP can provide a cost-effective, scalable solution with a broader expertise and quicker response times. In some cases, a hybrid model that combines both options may yield the most effective results.

Keywords

Managed Service Provider, MSP, Internal IT Team, Cost Structure, Scalability, Expertise, Response Time, Technology Tools, Cybersecurity, IT Support

FAQ

  1. What is a Managed Service Provider (MSP)?

    • A Managed Service Provider is an outsourced IT company that offers various technological services to businesses, including cybersecurity, network maintenance, and troubleshooting.

  2. What are the benefits of hiring an internal IT team?

    • An internal IT team can provide personalized service, in-depth knowledge of the company’s systems, and immediate assistance for technical issues.

  3. How do MSPs charge for their services?

    • MSPs typically charge either based on the number of users or devices, often on a subscription basis, making their services more flexible.

  4. What is the scalability advantage of an MSP?

    • MSPs can easily scale their services to accommodate the growth of your business without the added expense of hiring new employees.

  5. Why is expertise a significant factor when choosing between MSP and internal IT?

    • MSPs often have experience across various industries and environments, offering a broader range of expertise and insights compared to an internal IT professional who may be limited in scope.

  6. What happens if my internal IT professional is unavailable?

    • If you rely solely on an internal IT person, their absence may lead to delays in addressing critical issues; with an MSP, a team of professionals can step in when needed.