In today’s digital world, technology powers businesses of all kinds. Computers, software, networks, and data storage are critical for almost every operation. But managing all this tech can be complex and time-consuming, especially for non-tech companies. This is where managed IT services come in handy.

But what exactly are managed IT services? And how can they help enhance business processes like HR? Let’s explore.

Managed IT Services Explained

Think of managed IT services as hiring an expert team to handle all your technology needs, like an IT managed by Attentus or other providers of your choice. Instead of having in-house IT staff, you outsource IT operations to a specialized managed IT services provider.

This external team manages things like:

• Computer systems and networks
• Software installations and updates
• Data backup and security
• Help desk support
• Cloud computing services

Essentially, they become your fully outsourced IT department, taking tech tasks off your plate.

Why Use Managed IT?

There are several compelling reasons to consider managed IT services:

Cost Savings

Hiring, training and maintaining an in-house IT team is expensive, especially for smaller businesses. Managed services let you avoid those costs.

Expertise

IT is complex and constantly evolving. For instance, SAP consulting and implementation services have dedicated experts across all areas of technology. This task can be challenging, so consulting experts is your best option.

Scalability

Need more (or less) IT support? Managed services providers make it easy to scale up or down.

Risk Management

They handle data security, business continuity planning, and regulatory compliance – reducing your risks.

How Does This Tie Into HR?

Now, you may be thinking: ‘That’s all well and good, but what does IT have to do with human resources?’

The answer? Quite a lot actually…

HR Depends Heavily On Technology

From software for recruiting, payroll, and benefits administration to databases storing employee records to collaboration tools for training and development – tech drives every HR function nowadays virtually.

And with the rise of remote/hybrid work models, solid IT infrastructure management and remote support is more crucial than ever for enabling productive distributed teams.

When IT Systems Struggle, HR Suffers

Poor IT leads to lost productivity, inefficient processes, potential data breaches, compliance issues, and frustrated employees/candidates. All of which creates more headaches and fire drills for the HR team.

Technology should be an enabler for HR, not a constant source of problems and downtime. This is where managed IT services can make a big difference.

Managed IT Enhances HR In Three Key Ways

By taking a proactive, strategic approach to IT, managed service providers (MSPs) elevate HR capabilities in several important ways:

Ensuring Secure, Reliable Systems

With an MSP monitoring your systems 24/7, performing proactive maintenance, and quickly resolving any issues, you gain assured business continuity. No more technology hurdles derailing HR operations.

Your employee data is also locked down with advanced security protocols. And robust backup/disaster recovery protects that critical data.

Streamlining HR Processes

MSPs optimize your software deployments and integrations so all your HR apps work seamlessly together. They automate tedious manual tasks and address inefficient processes.

The result? Smoother workflows, higher productivity, and better user experiences for employees and candidates.

Enabling Agile, Mobile Operations

By modernizing your tech architecture and moving to the cloud, MSPs empower fully mobile, distributed workforces – a must for flexible/hybrid HR models.

They facilitate video conferencing, collaboration tools, softphones, and secure remote access. So, HR staff can work just as effectively from home, on the road, or anywhere.

An MSP is also a strategic advisor, recommending the right HR technologies as your business needs evolve. So you’re never using outdated, clunky systems that slow you down.

How Do You Engage With A Managed Service Provider?

The engagement process looks something like this:

Assessment and Planning

The MSP starts by evaluating your current IT environment – infrastructure, applications, processes, security posture, etc. They work closely with your team (including HR) to understand requirements and business goals.

Then, they devise a comprehensive technology roadmap and service plan customized for your business. This becomes your long-term IT strategy.

Implementation and Support

With the strategy in place, the real work begins. The MSP handles migrating data, deploying new hardware/software, configuring security tools, onboarding staff – whatever needs to be done to implement the plan.

From there, they provide ongoing monitoring, maintenance, troubleshooting, and support to keep everything optimized. You have a go-to team for any IT needs.

What About In-House IT Staff?

A common question is: ‘If we have an internal IT department, where do they fit with a managed provider?’

In most cases, the internal staff remains the liaison between the business and MSP. They handle simple tasks and escalate complex issues to the provider’s deeper team of experts.

The MSP essentially becomes an extension of your internal IT, filling key knowledge/staffing gaps. It’s a collaborative, co-managed arrangement.

How To Choose An MSP

Not all managed IT service providers are created equal. When evaluating potential partners, look for:

• Deep technical expertise across all areas (cloud, security, networking, etc)
• Experience in your industry with robust processes/methodologies
• Certifications and partnerships with leading technology vendors
• Transparent, fair pricing aligning with your budgets
• Proven track record with current client testimonials
• Strong service-level commitments around response times, uptime, etc.
• Local presence for in-person service when needed

It’s also critical they take a collaborative approach – working closely with your team as a true strategic partner, not just an outsourced vendor.

Final Thoughts

Today’s HR operations are intrinsically linked to technology. And managed IT support offers a powerful way to optimize that technology for higher productivity, better functionality, and smoother processes.

While not a panacea, the right MSP provides the secure, agile, and integrated tech foundations that allow HR to operate at its best. At the very least, it’s an option worth exploring further if your current IT struggles are hindering HR effectiveness.

So take an honest look at your IT environment and processes. Could you use more reliability, efficiency and strategic vision when it comes to tech? If so, managed IT services may be the catalyst to leveling up your HR through smarter technology.

As a tech-savvy HR consultant, Mika Drews is passionate about helping businesses leverage technology to streamline operations and empower their workforce.