Companies are increasingly relying on IT technology and it is critical for an MSP business to provide a proactive maintenance approach instead of using the old break/fix model. In other words, it is much more effective to continually monitor networks and each computer instead of waiting to fix an issue whenever a problem arises. Using the old method of break/fix support can cause a whole host of challenges and is not nearly as effective. Here are a few reasons why you, as an MSP, should avoid the hourly break/fix support and, instead, offer proactive maintenance at a flat fee:
Network Instability
Networks are much more likely to crash without continual monitoring for any issues or unusual patterns. Relying on the break/fix model will cause much more downtime and create a lack of confidence in the stability of the computer system. Clients will easily become frustrated with the constant downtime and lack of productivity. On the other hand, regular maintenance will limit network downtime and significantly increase productivity for each employee.
Ignore Minor Issues
Using the break/fix model can turn minor problems into huge issues because customers will typically ignore perceived minor problems because they rather not take the time to contact an MSP business. On the other hand, continual monitoring will allow an MSP to notice any minor issues and repair them accordingly.
Unstable Work Demand
An MSP that only relies on the break/fix model will experience much less work than an IT service that uses the proactive maintenance approach. Less work is not only a recipe for lack of production, but it can also significantly affect your profit. As an MSP, you will need to find a much larger consumer base to support your business, which is no easy task.
Too Many Problems At Once
While you may experience slow times, you also run the risk of experiencing issues with multiple clients at once. If the problems are not fixed quickly, customers can become unhappy and decide to use another MSP. On the other hand, a proactive approach can avoid dealing with multiple problems at one time.
Outdated Equipment
Without continual monitoring, IT equipment can become outdated very quickly. Outdated equipment usually results in poor performance and can cause severe downtime. Clients will be forced to buy new equipment at a much sooner pace than if they used an MSP that continually monitored for any issues or problems that arise.
Lack of Monitoring
Using the break/fix model can severely hurt your client’s computer systems because server logs, antivirus software, and backup data can quickly become obsolete without the proper maintenance. Using outdated software is a recipe for disaster and can become very costly. An MSP that uses a proactive approach can avoid these issues and can quickly repair them.
Failed Business Model
Using the reactive break/fix model is not profitable, and it is not best for an MSP’s long-term interests. If your customers are continually experiencing problems, they will not be happy. On the other hand, if everything is going smoothly, you will be unable to make a profit. The only viable solution is to use the proactive IT maintenance approach at a flat fee.
As you can see, the break/fix model is an outdated practice for an MSP business. Using this inefficient practice causes a whole host of issues that range from network instability, outdated equipment, lack of monitoring and many more problems. To attain long-term success, charging a flat rate for continually IT maintenance will keep your clients happy, while also providing a successful business model.
Contact us at http://mspseofactory.com/, if you are ready to switch to providing MSP services. For that initial sales push and for a consistent growth your MSP needs help marketing IT services.
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