Managed Services: Reducing Risk for SMBs through Expertise and Flexibility
By Glenda Brown, 30 June 2023
Introduction
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and data-driven decision-making, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face unique challenges when it comes to managing their data resources. Building and maintaining a comprehensive team of experts across various data domains can be costly and time-consuming. However, with BI:PROCSI’s Managed Services offering, SMBs now have access to a scalable and flexible subject matter expert resource pool.
But how exactly is our Managed Services reducing risk by providing expertise, reducing technical debt, and offering elastic resourcing?
Understanding Managed Services
Managed Services refer to outsourcing specific business functions or processes to a specialised service provider. In the context of data management, it involves partnering with a trusted provider, BI:PROCSI, to gain access to a pool of data resources spanning areas such as Business Intelligence (BI), Data Warehousing (DW), Data Engineering, and Data Science. SMBs can subscribe to these services and tap into the required skills and knowledge whenever the need arises.
Scalable and Flexible Subject Matter Expert Resource Pool
One of the primary benefits of Managed Services is access to a scalable and flexible subject matter expert resource pool. Instead of investing in a full-fledged in-house team, SMBs can leverage the expertise of a diverse pool of data professionals. This resource pool covers 57 technologies and 10 programming languages, ensuring that businesses have access to the right skills for their specific needs. The ability to scale up or down the resource allocation based on the evolving requirements of the business offers unmatched flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
Future-Proofing and Reducing Technical Debt
Data service providers like BI:PROCSI help SMBs future-proof their data capabilities and reduce technical debt. Staying abreast of the latest advancements in data technologies, BI:PROCSI ensures that businesses have access to cutting-edge tools and methodologies without the need for continuous investments or training. By relying on the expertise of Managed Services professionals, SMBs can reduce the risk of falling behind in the rapidly evolving data landscape and avoid the burden of outdated technology and skills.
Elastic Resourcing for Optimised Resource Allocation
The elastic resourcing aspect of Managed Services allows SMBs to optimise their resource allocation based on their changing needs. Whether it’s a short-term project requiring specialised skills or a long-term initiative demanding a broader range of expertise, SMBs can quickly scale their data team up or down as required. This elasticity ensures that businesses can allocate their resources efficiently, eliminate unnecessary costs, and adapt to fluctuating demands without compromising on quality or expertise.
Quality and Expertise
Managed Services providers pride themselves on delivering high-quality services and expertise. The subject matter experts within the resource pool possess deep knowledge and extensive experience in their respective domains. By partnering with a reputable provider, SMBs gain access to top-notch talent, ensuring that their data initiatives are executed with precision and excellence. The Managed Services model ensures that businesses can leverage the collective expertise of experienced professionals, promoting data-driven decision-making and obtaining valuable insights.
Additional Support and Benefits
In addition to the core advantages mentioned above, Managed Services providers offer a range of supplementary benefits to further support SMBs in their data management endeavours. These include:
- Dedicated Technical Success Managers and Account Managers: Businesses are assigned dedicated professionals who serve as their primary points of contact, providing guidance, support, and ensuring smooth execution of data initiatives.
- Bi-annual Data Landscape Health-Check: Regular health-checks are conducted to assess the state of a company’s data landscape, identify areas for improvement, and recommend tailored solutions.
- Quarterly Business Review (QBR) Setting and Tailored Roadmap Review: QBRs align data initiatives with business goals, helping SMBs chart a tailored roadmap for success.
- Monthly Q&A with Data Leader: Regular interactions with a data leader provide an opportunity for SMBs to seek advice, share insights, and gain valuable perspectives on their data strategies.
Managed Services are transforming the landscape for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by minimising risk and granting them access to specialised knowledge and adaptability, all without the requirement of maintaining an extensive in-house team. Through collaboration with a reliable service provider, SMBs can harness the advantages of a scalable and versatile pool of subject matter experts, ensuring the resilience of their data capabilities, maximising resource allocation, and reaping the rewards of top-notch services and expertise. With Managed Services at their disposal, SMBs can confidently navigate the data-centric terrain, propelling their growth and maintaining a competitive edge within their industries.
