Tight budgets and irregular cash flow are prominent features of non-profit organizations.  This makes the task of managing computers and other IT resources difficult.  The idea of outsourcing IT management to a managed services provider is often cast out.  

 However, finding a reasonably priced and responsive managed service provider can free up your staff resources to be more focused on the organization’s core goals.  A managed service provider or IT support company adds expertise and scalable resources to manage your computers and network as well as provide advice on equipment purchases.  With better tools and effective management, your non-profit organization will be more efficient in its mission.

When making the decision if outsourcing IT is a good move, an organization should answer these questions.

 1. Can the organization benefit from the expertise of a managed service provider?

If members of the organization are spending a high percentage of their time troubleshooting computer problems or researching the myriad of options when purchasing new systems, an IT support company can help take that burden and stress away.  An MSP can help guide the organization to purchase equipment best suited for the goals and avoid many pitfalls that common with fouled purchases.  Additionally, the MSP’s tech support staff can often resolve IT troubles more quickly than an office manager or intern.  An MSP also provides scalable resources to staff projects as needed.  For example, if your organization is upgrading its server or moving to a new email platform, the MSP can staff three or four technicians to the job for a quicker completion time. 

 2. Can money and time be saved by outsourcing?

Money is often the ultimate driver in decision making for non-profit organizations.  MSP’s offer numerous packages and pricing models to meet your organization’s needs.  The support is on-demand as the organization needs it.  This, in most cases, provides cost savings over keeping permanent IT staff or adding IT responsibilities to non-technical staff.  Most providers offer their services in break/fix or pay-as-you-go, monthly contract fee, and pre-paid blocks of time models.  Depending on the structure of your organization one of these may make better sense than the others for your budget.

 3. Have you determined what services need to be handled and what goals will be achieved?

Having a clear idea of the goals and expectations you have for your IT environment will help the partnership be effective.   Consider if you need routine network maintenance to stay ahead of IT disasters, regular onsite visits to address users’ computer issues, and/or on-call support for the few times a year help is needed.  If your organization needs an overall network upgrade the provider can work with you to develop a plan and prioritize the projects.

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