IT support – understanding the costs

Selecting the most cost-effective support solution for your business can be challenging. With varying prices across the UK and different options available, making the right choice can feel overwhelming. We break down the costs associated with different types of support to help you make an informed decision for your business.

What are the costs?

In the UK, costs can vary widely based on several factors, including location, specific business needs, and the level of technical expertise required. Generally, costs are highest in central London due to the higher demand and skill requirements and decrease as you move further out into more rural areas.

1. Ad-hoc support

Cost: £120 per hour (approx. + call out)

Description: Ad-hoc support is a reactive model where services are provided as needed, either on-site or remotely.

Pros: No ongoing costs; you pay only for the time spent fixing issues.

Cons: Lack of preventative maintenance and monitoring; higher billable rates; no strategic alignment with business needs. Often, this model can result in higher overall costs due to its reactive nature.

Recommendation: While this model can be useful for occasional issues, it’s generally less cost-effective in the long run compared to managed services.

2. Pre-paid support

Cost: £100 per hour (approx. when purchased in advance)

Description: Similar to ad-hoc support but involves purchasing a block of hours in advance, often with a discounted rate.

Pros: Simplified budgeting with discounted rates and possibly some guaranteed response times.

Cons: Still a reactive service with no ongoing monitoring or maintenance; you might end up with a similar experience to ad-hoc support, with the added upfront cost.

Recommendation: Pre-paid support offers a bit more predictability but lacks the proactive elements crucial for effective IT management.

3. Fixed-rate support

Cost: £50 per computer, per month (approx.)

Description: Fixed-rate support charges a set fee per computer per month, covering reactive support, monitoring, and sometimes on-site support.

Pros: Predictable monthly costs; includes some level of monitoring and assistance.

Cons: Often lacks proactive management and regular maintenance, potentially leading to higher downtime and security risks.

Recommendation: Fixed-rate support can be a good option if your needs are primarily reactive but ensure that it includes adequate monitoring and maintenance.

4. Fully managed support

Cost: £100 per user, per month (approx.)

Description: This comprehensive service covers all aspects of IT management, including 24/7 monitoring, proactive maintenance, strategic guidance, and regular technical visits.

Pros: Full spectrum of services; proactive management; regular audits and updates; strategic alignment with business goals.

Cons: Higher upfront cost but often provides better overall value.

Recommendation: Fully managed support is ideal for businesses seeking comprehensive care and strategic IT management. Despite the higher initial cost, it offers significant long-term benefits and peace of mind.

Why choose fully managed support?

For small businesses, IT costs can be a significant concern, especially with the increasing reliance on technology and remote work. Fully managed support is often the most cost-effective solution, providing around-the-clock assistance and coverage across all sites for a fixed monthly fee. This model is typically more economical than ad-hoc or pre-paid help due to the comprehensive services included.

A fully managed IT service provides the most value by ensuring all aspects of your IT infrastructure are effectively managed. This includes:

• 24/7 monitoring: Continuous oversight of your IT systems to detect and resolve issues before they affect your business.
• Well-staffed help desk: Access to a knowledgeable team for quick resolution of any problems.
• Regular proactive visits: Routine maintenance and audits to prevent issues and ensure your IT environment is optimised.
• Strategic guidance: Regular consultations to align your IT strategy with your business goals.

The cost of support should be evaluated based on the total value provided to your business. Poorly managed IT can lead to higher downtime, security risks, and decreased productivity. For businesses with more than ten employees, ad-hoc or pre-paid help may not offer the necessary control and proactive management. Fully managed support, despite its higher upfront cost, provides a comprehensive and strategic solution that delivers better security, reliability, and overall return on investment.

For a personalised IT support solution tailored to your business needs in Croydon and beyond, contact us at RedDoor. Our bespoke service ensures you receive the best value and assistance for your business. To learn more or get a detailed quote, request a callback.