BI:PROCSI’s Guide to Running a Lean Data Team with Managed Services for Enterprises and SMBs
By Marianne Brits-Strodl, 13 June 2023
Introduction
Running an efficient and successful data team is a challenge faced by both small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and enterprise organisations in today’s data-driven business landscape. This guide will introduce you to BI:PROCSI’s managed services solution and provide you with a step-by-step approach to running a lean data team with managed services for enterprises and SMBs. By following these guidelines, you can access a diverse pool of data resources, optimise your resources, stay ahead of the curve, and benefit from high-quality services.
Step 1: Understand the Benefits of Managed Services
Managed services offer several advantages for organisations of all sizes. These benefits include:
- Access to a wide range of data resources across various areas, such as Business Intelligence (BI), Data Warehousing (DW), Data Engineering, and Data Science.
- Cost-effectiveness by providing a full team at a fraction of the cost of hiring dedicated resources.
- Scalable and flexible expertise with access to subject matter experts in various technologies and programming languages.
- Future-proofing and reducing technical debt by leveraging up-to-date knowledge, adopting the latest tools, methodologies, and best practices.
- Access to high-quality services delivered by experienced professionals.
Step 2: Assess Your Data Needs
Evaluate your organisation’s data requirements and identify areas where managed services can provide the most value. Consider whether you need support with BI reporting, data engineering, advanced analytics, or other data-related tasks. Determine the scale of your operations and the level of expertise required.
Step 3: Select a Managed Services Provider
Research and select a reputable managed services provider like BI:PROCSI. Look for a provider that aligns with your organisation’s needs, has a proven track record, and offers a comprehensive range of services. Ensure that the provider offers the specific expertise you require, such as BI, DW, data engineering, and data science.
Step 4: Collaborate with the Provider
Once you have chosen a managed services provider, establish a collaborative relationship. Work with the provider to communicate your goals, requirements, and expectations. Ensure that the provider understands your business and can tailor their services to meet your specific needs.
Step 5: Leverage the Managed Services Offering
Take full advantage of the managed services offering to run a lean data team. Utilise the diverse pool of data resources and expertise provided by the managed services provider. Engage with the provider’s subject matter experts whenever needed, without the burden of maintaining an extensive in-house team.
Step 6: Optimise Resources and Budget
Maximise the return on investment by leveraging the cost-effectiveness of managed services. Compare the monthly cost of managed services to the expense of hiring a dedicated data resource. Take advantage of the full team provided by the managed services provider, which is often available at a fraction of the cost of one resource. This allows you to optimise your resources and stay within budgetary constraints.
Step 7: Stay Ahead of the Curve
Embrace the up-to-date knowledge and expertise provided by the managed services provider to future-proof your data capabilities. Adopt the latest tools, methodologies, and best practices recommended by the provider. Stay informed about industry trends and advancements to ensure that your data operations remain efficient, secure, and aligned with industry standards.
Step 8: Benefit from Additional Services
Explore the additional benefits offered by the managed services provider. These may include:
- Dedicated Technical Success Managers and Account Managers who ensure your success and maintain smooth operations.
- Thorough evaluations of your data landscape twice a year to identify areas for improvement.
- Quarterly Business Reviews (QBR) and tailored Roadmap Reviews to align services with your evolving business goals.
- Monthly Q&A sessions with data leaders for interactive discussions, guidance, advice, and industry insights.
Step 9: Evaluate and Improve
Regularly evaluate the performance of your managed services provider and the impact on your data operations. Provide feedback and collaborate with the provider to improve efficiency, enhance services, and make informed decisions based on evaluations and reviews.
Step 10: Drive Growth and Maintain a Competitive Edge
By following these steps and leveraging managed services, you can drive growth and maintain a competitive edge in your industry. Transform your data operations, regardless of your organisation’s scale, by embracing the power of managed services. Contact your chosen managed services provider, such as BI:PROCSI, to explore how their services can benefit your data team and overall business success.
Running a lean data team is achievable for both enterprise organisations and SMBs with the help of managed services. By accessing a diverse pool of data resources, leveraging expertise, optimising resources, and staying ahead of the curve, you can transform your data operations. Embrace the benefits of managed services and drive growth while maintaining a competitive edge in your industry
