Managed IT services encompass an extensive set of solutions, including information security, network monitoring, hardware and software procurement, Wi-Fi setup and maintenance, and remote support. They’re a popular solution for companies looking to streamline the time and money they put into managing their own IT.
But while managed services offer several fantastic benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider before you sign a contract. In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of switching to managed services in your club.
The Pros of Managed IT Services
1. Keep Tighter Control Over Your Spending
If you’re responsible for your club’s systems, your IT spending may vary from month to month.
Let’s say you experience a problem with a server and have no idea how to put it right. The cost of calling out a local technician for a one-off emergency visit could be higher than you ever expected, and any further issues would lead to extra expenses down the line.
But a good managed service provider will offer an all-inclusive contract, covering all of your IT needs, with a competitive rate. You won’t need to guess what your bill will come to at the end of each month — you’ll know exactly how much your managed services will cost.
2. Reduce the Risk of IT Issues
Working with a managed service provider ensures that your computers and servers run smoothly at all times. A team of experts will provide you with the tech you need and set it up efficiently. As a result, your club will face less risk of serious IT problems.
But in case something does happen, you’ll have direct access to the pros. No need to try to fix the problem yourself or find a local technician in your area. Just contact your service provider, tell them what’s happened, and they’ll get to work.
Club Support Inc uses our experience of working within the club industry to foresee potential issues and fix them before they occur.
3. Empower Your Employees with the Right Tech
Your employees need high-quality devices and software to work at their best. Outdated, sluggish tech will only slow them down and hinder their productivity. Not only will they be frustrated, but your members may question the quality of your club when they see that employees are unequipped for their work.
Club Support Inc will implement a dependable point of sale system and devices for your team. You will know that your employees have user-friendly, efficient tech at their disposal, suited to their tasks, every single day.
4. Deliver a High-Quality Member Experience
Your members will appreciate having access to great devices and online services when dealing with your club. For example, if they can’t sign in when they arrive, their time at your club will get off to a bad start.
And if they can’t find a team member available to help them quickly, their hopes of enjoying a brief round of golf will be dashed. This disappointment could sour their entire relationship with your club and prompt them to warn others against signing up.
But with managed IT services, your members will be able to sign in, make payments, and do anything else they need to. Club Support Inc will identify the ideal hardware and software for your operations, catering to your members’ needs.
5. Reduce IT-Related Distractions
Running a sports club, golf club, or any other type of membership club is rarely easy. You need to oversee your employees, be available to help members, and handle any issues that arise immediately. The last thing you need is yet another problem with your Wi-Fi or a faulty server.
Without managed services, you would have to try to find a solution yourself (or delegate it to an employee) without knowing what to do. That would distract you from other responsibilities, and your team might not have all the support they need from you.
But a managed service provider will take control if you run into an issue and leave you free to focus on your duties.
The Cons of Managed IT Services
There are far fewer cons than pros. Here are three to consider:
1. Not All Service Providers are Reliable
There are many companies providing managed services out there, and some are significantly better than others. Choose the wrong one and you’ll be burdened with a team that can’t provide the support you need. That’s why it’s so important to do your research before you sign a contract.
Check that your service provider has worked with clubs like yours before, has a trustworthy team, provides the solutions you need, and can offer a fair monthly price. Club Support Inc provides honest information on each of our services, our fees, and more.
2. Adjusting to New Hardware and Software May Take Time
Upgrading your computers, platforms, and applications (if necessary) can be tough if you have used the same ones for years. You may feel nervous about making a mistake, or wonder how your team will cope with a whole new setup.
Club Support Inc will ensure that the transition to your new tech will be smooth and simple.
3. You May Need to Find New Tasks for Your In-House IT Expert
If you currently have an on-site IT technician, their workload and routines may change when you start working with a managed service provider.
It’s understandable that they might resist that idea initially, but it doesn’t have to be negative. They will have more time to handle minor tasks, such as recovering forgotten passwords, without the stress of fixing bigger problems. Additionally, they could find new ways to apply their technical knowledge and put their skills to better use within your club.
How Can You Set Up Managed IT Services for Your Club?
Club Support Inc has more than 19 years’ experience working in the sports and recreational club industry. We offer 24/7 on-site and remote support with fast response times for your peace of mind.
