Choose the Best Digital Solutions for Your Nonprofit in 10 Easy Steps

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10 Steps to Identify the Best Digital Solutions for Your Nonprofit

Digital transformation for nonprofits is not just a buzzword; it represents a fundamental shift in how organizations can leverage technology to further their missions, engage with donors and supporters, streamline operations, and drive advocacy efforts. As technology continues to shape how we live and interact, nonprofits must embrace digital transformation to remain relevant and practical in fulfilling their objectives.

This blog explores the significance of digital transformation in the nonprofit sector, its benefits, challenges, and best practices. Discover how nonprofits leverage technology to align with their missions, engage donors, improve efficiency, and drive advocacy efforts. Real-life case studies illustrate successful initiatives, empowering organizations to make a more significant social impact. Join us to navigate the digital transformation landscape and drive positive change in the digital age.

 

The Need for Digital Transformation in Nonprofits

In today’s ever-changing digital landscape, nonprofit organizations need help with their traditional approach to operations. To remain relevant and practical, nonprofits must embrace digital transformation—a strategic process that harnesses technology to enhance their capabilities and fulfill their social missions.

Donors and supporters now expect seamless and personalized engagement experiences, making it crucial for nonprofits to interact through digital channels, accept online donations, and provide real-time updates on their impact. Moreover, digital tools offer potent data analytics capabilities, enabling data-driven decision-making to optimize fundraising strategies and program effectiveness.

Nonprofits can leverage digital platforms like social media to amplify their messages, reach broader audiences, and mobilize supporters for advocacy initiatives. Internally, digital solutions streamline processes, allowing staff to focus on core mission activities and operate more efficiently.

Additionally, digital transformation promotes global collaboration, breaking geographical barriers for knowledge sharing and resource pooling among nonprofits, donors, and experts. Transparency and accountability are also enhanced through real-time access to financial and stakeholder impact data. Embracing digital transformation is key for nonprofits to stay competitive, offer innovative donor engagement approaches, and create positive social impact in the digital age.

 

10-Steps-to-Identify-the-Best-Digital-Solutions-for-Your-Nonprofit-MiddleIdentifying the Right Digital Solutions for Nonprofits

Selecting the right digital solutions that align with the organization’s unique needs and goals is essential for successful implementation. Here are 10 key steps to identify the most suitable digital solutions for nonprofits:

  1. Conduct a Digital Readiness Assessment: Evaluate the organization’s digital capabilities and infrastructure. Identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas that require improvement to establish a solid foundation for digital transformation.
  2. Understand Specific Needs and Objectives: Define the nonprofit’s specific needs and objectives for digital transformation. Understanding these goals will guide the selection process, whether it’s improving donor engagement, streamlining program management, or enhancing advocacy efforts.
  3. Engage Stakeholders: Involve key stakeholders in the decision-making process, including staff, volunteers, donors, and beneficiaries. Gather insights and feedback from those using the digital solutions to ensure buy-in and successful adoption.
  4. Explore Digital Tools and Platforms: Research various digital tools and platforms available for nonprofits. This may include fundraising software, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, project management tools, and social media platforms.
  5. Consider Scalability and Integration: Assess whether the chosen digital solutions can scale as the nonprofit grows. Additionally, ensure compatibility and integration between tools to create a seamless workflow.
  6. Evaluate Cost and Budget: Consider the costs of implementing and maintaining the chosen digital solutions. Compare pricing plans, subscription models, and hidden charges to make an informed decision aligning with the nonprofit’s budget.
  7. Prioritize Security and Privacy: Nonprofits deal with sensitive data, including donor information and beneficiary details. Ensure the selected digital solutions adhere to industry security standards and comply with data privacy regulations.
  8. Seek Recommendations and Reviews: Reach out to other nonprofits or industry experts with experience with the digital solutions under consideration. Read reviews and case studies to gain insights into the effectiveness and usability of the tools.
  9. Trial and Test: Whenever possible, opt for trial versions or free demos of the digital solutions to assess their functionality and user-friendliness. Hands-on testing will provide a better understanding of how the tools fit the nonprofit’s needs.
  10. Training and Support: Consider the availability of training resources and customer support provided by the digital solution providers. Adequate training and ongoing support are crucial for successful adoption and utilization.

Find the Right Partner

Ready to embark on your nonprofit’s digital transformation journey? Partner with Protected Harbor, a leader in digital solutions and IT services for nonprofits. Contact us today to unlock the full potential of technology and drive your mission forward in the digital age. Let us empower your nonprofit to make a greater impact with the right digital solutions and strategies.

5 Trends that Will Drive the MSP Market in 2023

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5 Trends that Will Drive the MSP Market in 2023

The managed services market is quickly becoming a significant player in the IT industry. It is estimated to reach $257 billion by 2023 and is projected to have a compound annual growth rate of 10.2%. With this growth comes the need for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to stay up to date with the latest trends in the industry. In this blog, we will discuss the five trends that will drive the MSP market in 2023.

 

Introduction to MSPs and the Managed Services Market

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) provide IT services and support to businesses. These services range from data backup and recovery to network security and monitoring. MSPs often act as an extension of a company’s IT department, taking on the responsibility of managing day-to-day IT operations.

The managed services market is rapidly growing as more businesses are looking to outsource their IT services to MSPs. Several factors drive this growth, including the increasing demand for IT services, the growing cloud computing market, and the increasing focus on cybersecurity.

 

What Are the Top Managed Services Market Trends?

The managed services market is constantly evolving, and several trends are driving its growth. Let’s take a look at the top trends for the year 2023.

 

The Rise of Automation in the Managed Services Market

The rise of automation in the managed services market is one of the most significant trends. Automation allows MSPs to automate repetitive tasks, freeing their staff to focus on more complex projects. Automation also reduces costs and improves efficiency, as companies no longer need additional personnel to manage these tasks.

Automation is also becoming increasingly popular in the managed services market because it provides more accurate results. By automating processes, MSPs can guarantee more consistent and reliable results. This increases customer satisfaction, as MSPs can provide services more quickly and efficiently.

Finally, many MSPs are turning to automation to provide better customer service. By automating specific tasks, MSPs can reduce the time it takes to provide customer support. This allows them to focus more on providing personalized customer service, which leads to increased customer satisfaction.

 

The Impact of Connected and Intelligent Technologies on the MSP Industry

Connected and intelligent technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are transforming the managed services market. MSPs use these technologies to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and provide better customer service.

MSPs are using AI to automate processes, allowing them to provide more accurate results in less time. AI can also analyze data, allowing MSPs to identify trends and optimize their services.

MSPs are also using the IoT to monitor their clients’ networks and identify potential issues before they become a problem. This allows MSPs to provide proactive support and reduce downtime, leading to increased customer satisfaction.

 

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These solutions allow MSPs to store data securely and cost-effectively and provide access to services from any device at any time.

Cloud-based solutions also offer MSPs scalability, allowing them to expand their services as their clients’ needs change quickly. This is especially important for MSPs that serve small and medium-sized businesses, as it will enable them to adjust their services as their clients’ enterprises multiply.

Finally, cloud-based solutions allow MSPs to provide more efficient services. Using cloud-based solutions, MSPs can access their client’s data from any device at any time.

 

Data Recovery Will be in Demand

Data recovery services will be in high demand in 2023 as businesses collect large amounts of data. Data recovery services allow businesses to recover data that has been lost or corrupted. This is especially important in a cyber-attack, as it can help enterprises quickly recover their data and minimize downtime.

MSPs specializing in data recovery services will be in high demand as businesses increasingly rely on their data in the coming years.

 

Increasing Focus on Cybersecurity in the Managed Services Market

The managed services market is becoming increasingly focused on cybersecurity. As businesses become more reliant on technology, the need for secure networks and systems becomes more pressing. MSPs that specialize in cybersecurity services will be in high demand in 2023.

Cybersecurity services allow businesses to protect their data and systems from malicious attacks. These services include network security, application security, and data security. As businesses become increasingly reliant on technology, secure networks and systems will become more critical, and MSPs specializing in cybersecurity services will be in high demand.

 

Conclusion

For almost all industries, the upcoming year appears to be complicated. The MSP market’s successful players will recognize trends and modify their models to capitalize on them. They are the ones who will prosper in 2023 and beyond.

At Protected Harbor, we are committed to staying up to date with the latest trends in the managed services market. We are one of the top US MSPs, specializing in data recovery, cybersecurity, and cloud-based solutions. Goodfirms and Small Business Awards also awarded us for the leading IT and cloud services. If you’re looking for an MSP to help you stay ahead of the curve, contact us today to schedule a free IT Audit.

B2B IT Services: All You Need to Know

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B2B IT Services: All You Need to Know

In today’s highly competitive business environment, having access to reliable and efficient IT services is critical for the success of any business. Good B2B IT services offer a range of benefits to businesses, such as increased efficiency, cost-effectiveness, better security measures, scalability, and competitive advantage.

Following is a comprehensive overview of B2B IT services, including the types of services available, their benefits, key considerations and tips on selecting the right B2B IT services provider for your business.

 

B2B IT Services Explained

B2B IT services refer to technology solutions designed for businesses and organizations. These services may include many IT-related activities, such as cloud services, storage, and networking, security architecture, virtual machines, computing resources, etc.

B2B IT services also include cloud computing services consisting of public cloud, private cloud, and hybrid cloud. Public cloud services are provided by third-party vendors and are accessible over the Internet. Private cloud services, on the other hand, are dedicated to a single organization and are usually deployed within the organization’s own data center. Hybrid cloud services combine public and private cloud services to provide a more comprehensive solution.

Regarding B2B IT services, certification exams and work experience are important factors to consider. In the case of cloud services, vendors often provide certification programs that allow IT professionals to become certified in specific technologies or platforms. These certifications can be valuable when selecting a B2B IT services provider. They demonstrate that the provider understands the technology and is committed to delivering high-quality services.

Another important aspect of B2B IT services is the infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) model, which allows organizations to rent computing resources, storage, and networking on a pay-as-you-go basis. This model can help organizations to reduce their IT costs and improve scalability. 

 

Types of B2B IT Services

There are several types of B2B IT services that businesses can choose from, depending on their needs and requirements. Some of the most common B2B IT services include:

  • Managed IT Services: This refers to outsourcing IT operations to a third-party provider responsible for managing and maintaining a company’s IT infrastructure. This may include hardware and software installation, network management, data backup and recovery, and help desk support.
  • Cloud Computing Services: This involves using remote servers and internet technologies to store, manage, and process data. Cloud computing services may include infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS).
  • Network and Infrastructure Services: This includes designing, implementing, and managing a company’s network infrastructure. This may involve setting up local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and virtual private networks (VPNs) to ensure that a company’s data and applications are accessible and secure.
  • Cybersecurity Services: These services protect a company’s digital assets from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Cybersecurity services may include security assessments, risk management, security consulting, and security operations center (SOC) services.

Businesses can also combine these services to create a custom IT solution that meets their needs and requirements.

 

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Benefits of B2B IT Services

B2B IT services offer a wide range of benefits to businesses. Here are some of the key advantages:

  • Increased Efficiency: B2B IT services can help streamline business processes, automate tasks, and eliminate manual processes, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.
  • Cost-Effective: Outsourcing IT services can be more cost-effective than hiring and maintaining an in-house IT team. By partnering with an appropriate B2B IT services provider, businesses can avoid the costs of recruitment, training, and benefits.
  • Better Security Measures: Reputable B2B IT services providers specialize in cybersecurity and can help businesses identify and mitigate security risks. They can also provide access to the latest security technologies, such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and antivirus software.
  • Scalability: B2B IT services can be configured to be scalable, which means they can grow or shrink with the needs of the business. This allows companies to add or remove services as their needs change.
  • Competitive Advantage: B2B IT services can give businesses a competitive advantage by providing access to the latest technologies, reducing downtime, and improving the quality and speed of company’s services.

 

How to Choose the Right B2B IT Services Provider

Choosing the right B2B IT services provider is critical to the success of a business. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when selecting a provider:

  • Research the Market: Look for companies that specialize in the services you need, experience in your industry, and have a good reputation.
  • Evaluate Vendor Offerings: Identify companies that can offer customized solutions and can scale as your business grows so you don’t have to continually switch providers.
  • Consider the Vendor’s Experience: Consider providers with a track record of delivering quality services and solutions. Check their references and testimonials to get an idea of their level of expertise.
  • Check for Certifications and Accreditation: For example, if you need cybersecurity services, look for providers with certifications, such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
  • Ask for References and Testimonials: This will give you insight into their expertise, customer service, and ability to deliver results.
  • Security: Security is also critical when selecting a B2B IT services provider. A good provider should have a security manager responsible for overseeing the security of the provider’s systems and services.

It is essential to research the market, evaluate different vendors’ offerings, consider their experience, check for certifications and accreditation, and ask for references and testimonials. With this information, businesses can choose the right B2B IT services provider to meet their specific needs and requirements.

 

To Sum It All Up

B2B IT services provide many benefits, including increased efficiency, cost-effectiveness, better security measures, scalability, and competitive advantage. Several types of B2B IT services are available, such as managed IT services, cloud computing services, network and infrastructure services, and cybersecurity services.

Overall, choosing the best B2B IT services provider requires careful consideration of the business’s needs and a thorough evaluation of potential providers. It is important to select a provider that can offer reliable and secure services that can help optimize business operations and drive success.

Protected Harbor is a B2B IT services provider that offers a range of services, including managed IT services, cloud computing services, cybersecurity services, and more. We have experience working with businesses of various sizes and industries and have a reputation for delivering reliable and secure services and have won the Best IT Company in the US.

We offer customized solutions to each business’s unique needs and have a team of experienced professionals available to support and assist as needed. We also have the necessary certifications and accreditations to provide high-quality services in areas such as cybersecurity. With 99.99% Uptime and Google 5 Star Rating, the services we deliver are unparalleled. Get a free IT Audit today and learn how we make your business stay ahead of the curve.

5 Benefits of Hiring a Managed Services Provider

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5 Benefits of Hiring a Managed Services Provider

Today’s businesses are faced with myriad challenges. The growth of digital technologies, the Internet of Things, managed services, and other connected devices have exposed organizations to new threats and accelerated the pace of change. As a result, organizations must adapt faster than ever to stay ahead of their competitors.

Users need to balance increasing responsibilities without sacrificing performance or security. Many businesses are moving from standard IT support services to managed services providers that can meet all their IT needs with a single vendor.

Managed service providers (MSPs) offer more than just essential managed IT support services; they provide strategic business services that integrate with the end user’s existing technology infrastructure. This article highlights the 5 benefits of hiring a managed services provider to leverage these benefits within your organization.

  • Reduce Costs

A managed services provider can reduce the costs of your technology in several ways. First, by leveraging economies of scale, MSPs can obtain better pricing on hardware and software services than they can as an individual organization. This can be expensive if you are currently responsible for buying and maintaining all your technology. You can reduce your costs by 10% to 30% or more by using MSPs to meet your technology needs.

Additionally, MSPs provide better service than many in-house IT departments. And according to a recent study, managed services providers can reduce costs by an average of 14% in the first year. This can amount to a significant amount of money, depending on the size of your organization.

  • Unified Platform to Manage All Services

An MSP can fulfill your business’s IT management services through a unified platform. All services are integrated through a single vendor that manages your technology. This can be especially beneficial when having all your systems and devices connected through a single system.

Unified platforms can link multiple applications and devices through a single system. This allows your organization’s employees to easily access their business applications from any location. This can result in improved productivity and more timely decision-making.

  • Built-In Security Features5-Benefits-of-Hiring-a-Managed-Services-Provider-19-Dec-middle-image

MSPs can offer several built-in security features, including identity and access management, intrusion detection and prevention, data encryption, and more. Building a secure network isn’t an easy task. If your organization doesn’t have the expertise you need to implement and maintain a secure network, you won’t be able to meet today’s security challenges.

Managed services providers offer many built-in security features to help protect your data from cyberattacks. They also provide security services that allow you to meet regulatory compliance requirements and protect your data from cyberattacks.

  • Accelerated Problem Resolution

Because managed services providers are responsible for all aspects of your technology, they can respond to issues more quickly and with a more consistent level of service. They can meet challenges more rapidly because they have dedicated teams of experts responsible for each technology solution.

Hiring an MSP can accelerate the speed of problem resolution and reduce employees’ time without important services. The average time for managed service providers to resolve a problem is six hours or less, compared to three days for organizations that work their own IT.

  • Better Service Continuity and Disaster Recovery

Compared to IT service providers or day-to-day service providers, Managed services providers offer better service continuity and disaster recovery services. Suppose your organization is currently responsible for handling its own continuity and disaster recovery services. In that case, you may need help to meet regulatory compliance requirements or keep your business up and running in the event of a disaster.

With managed services, you can be confident that your business will remain up and running if a natural disaster or other event disrupts your technology. MSPs can meet regulatory compliance requirements and offer more comprehensive continuity and disaster recovery plans than many individual organizations.

Managed services providers can help you meet regulatory compliance requirements related to cybersecurity and privacy. They also can provide 24/7/365 monitoring to detect potential outages and offer more advanced and redundant systems to ensure business continuity and continuity of operations in the event of a disaster.

 

Maximizing Business Resilience

Companies must develop innovative business models to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced business environment. This often involves leveraging the latest information technology to optimize operations, improve customer experiences, and achieve business goals. However, with the increased reliance on technology comes the increased risk of data loss, which can have serious consequences for businesses of all sizes. That’s why many companies turn to security service providers MSSPs, for assistance.

MSSPs are third-party organizations that specialize in providing various security services to businesses. They offer various services, including data loss prevention, incident response, and security monitoring, to help businesses stay protected against cyber threats. They also offer Service Level Agreements, or SLAs, which specify the level of service that a business can expect from the MSSP.

One of the key benefits of working with an MSSP is that they can help businesses develop a comprehensive incident response plan. This involves identifying potential threats, establishing protocols for responding to incidents, and regularly testing the plan to ensure it is effective. This approach can help businesses minimize cyber-attack impact and quickly return to normal operations.

 

Conclusion

The managed services model provides significant benefits over standard IT support services. It enables businesses to reduce costs, access better technology, and improve productivity. When organizations hire managed services providers, they can focus on their core business activities by outsourcing their technology needs.

When you think of an MSP, you might imagine a provider focusing on a limited set of products and services, with a technician who comes to your business on a set schedule to perform maintenance work. While many MSPs fit this description, Protected Harbor is different. Thanks to our customer-centric approach and experts, we can deliver peace of mind and a near-seamless customer experience.

It’s not an MSP at all. It’s more of a managed security service, providing monitoring and protection for your business’s critical IT infrastructure. What sets Protected Harbor apart from other MSPs is its tailored approach to each client’s unique needs. And with a team of seasoned engineers, analysts, and consultants, you can expect the utmost professionalism.

Contact our expert today to learn how we’re built differently. We are also giving away a free IT Audit; get one now!

Managed Services vs. Cloud Computing

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Managed Services vs. Cloud Computing: What’s the Difference?

Suppose you’re a CIO of a company or just an employee. In that case, it’s likely that sooner or later, you will have to deal with two opposing forces: on the one hand, the demands of your organization and the increasing need for agility, and on the other, your team’s inability to manage everything in a digital world. These two factors often lead to a choice between having a managed services contract, which relieves some pressure from your technical department by allowing them to use third-party companies instead of managing services themselves or going all-in with cloud computing.

Managed services and cloud computing can help businesses streamline operations, automate processes, and make data-driven decisions. They also have several things in common that make understanding the differences between managed services and cloud computing more accessible. Managed services and cloud computing are two popular ways organizations outsource their technology needs. Managed services refer to outsourcing day-to-day technology management, including data management systems and IT infrastructure management. On the other hand, cloud computing refers to using cloud-based services to store and access data securely.

Whether you’re a business looking to cut costs or develop an online presence, knowing what these services are and how they can benefit your organization is essential. Read on to learn more about the similarities and differences between managed services and cloud computing.

What is a Managed Service?

Managed services refer to a type of outsourcing where a company owns the technology and staff of another company, but not the business process or the customer relationship. A managed service provider (MSP) offers customers various types of managed services, governed by a service level agreement (SLA). This agreement outlines the expected level of service, including response time, issue resolution, and performance metrics.

One popular type of managed service is data management. This involves the storage, retrieval, and security of customer data. Another type of managed service is information technology services, which include the management of an organization’s technology infrastructure, such as servers, networks, and software applications.

Protected Harbor offers clients various managed services, including data management, cloud computing, migration, and information technology services. We work with our clients to develop customized SLAs that meet their specific needs and provide them with peace of mind knowing that their technology and data are in good hands.

There are several reasons why companies choose to partner with us for their managed services needs. One of the main reasons is our expertise in data management, which helps clients improve their data security and compliance. We also offer various managed services, including cloud-based solutions, which provide our clients the flexibility and scalability they need to grow their businesses.

For example, a hosting company outsources the management of its infrastructure to a third-party company. The customer’s website is hosted on the managed service provider’s cloud. The ordered service provider has managed the hosting for the customer for a fee.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is the delivery of resources and services through a network of shared hardware and software that reside on remote servers and are accessed through a network. This means you don’t own or manage any technology but instead access it via the Internet cloud. You can, for example, use a shared spreadsheet on someone’s computer over the Internet without knowing anything about the computer’s technical setup.

It is also referred to as “virtual computing.” A cloud provider like Amazon offers various storage, computing, and software services. The advantage of using a cloud provider is that it saves you time by letting you outsource tasks that used to take up a lot of your time, like managing the technical setup of employees’ computers, to a service provider.

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Advantages of Cloud Computing

Cloud providers offer several advantages over managed services providers. First, you get access to a broader range of services and benefits, like automatic backup and disaster recovery. The second is that you don’t have the costs associated with data center maintenance or power. Another advantage of cloud computing is that you are not limited to using the technology of a single provider since the cloud is an open network where anyone can offer a service. This means you can access a broader range of technologies and services without being limited to the ones a managed service provider offers.

Managed Services vs. Cloud Computing

Managed services and cloud computing benefits organizations looking to improve their technology capabilities. With managed services, organizations can benefit from expert monitoring and management of their technology infrastructure and data management strategies that can help them extract valuable insights from the data they collect. With cloud computing, organizations can benefit from scalable, cost-effective solutions allowing them to access their data anywhere.

Managed services can help organizations leverage machine learning and business intelligence to make informed business decisions. At the same time, cloud computing can provide the flexibility and scalability needed to support growth and innovation. Both approaches can offer high data governance and security, which is critical for organizations that handle sensitive information.

Ultimately, the choice between managed services and cloud computing will depend on an organization’s specific needs and goals. For organizations that require more control over their technology infrastructure, managed services may be the better choice. For organizations looking for more flexibility and scalability, cloud-based solutions may be the way to go. Regardless of the approach, organizations should seek a provider that offers a high level of service, data integration, and data warehouses to ensure they can make the most of their technology investments.

Managed vs. Platform as a Service

Managed services generally have a more limited scope and a more focused purpose than cloud computing. They are often used to supplement existing IT service delivery rather than replace it. A managed service usually has a defined scope and duration. The range includes the service type and the effort required to deliver it. The time of the contract is generally shorter than the scope. A platform as a service (PaaS) is a service that gives you access to an Application Programming Interface (API) that you can use to store your data and run specific programs, like a payroll service.

Conclusion

As you can see, managed services and cloud computing both have a lot of potential benefits, but it’s essential to know the differences between them to make the right choice for your organization. Both are effective ways to alleviate some of the pressure from your IT team and get access to resources that are not owned or managed by you. Suppose your organization is experiencing challenges managing the increasing volume of data created, the growing need for agility, or both. In that case, it might be worth analyzing the costs of managed services versus cloud computing.

The level of trust that Protected Harbor has received from its customers is evident from the fact that we have been recognized as the top cloud computing company in the US by Goodfirms. We have been rated highly among the people of the Internet because we offer a wide range of affordable cloud computing services at different levels of customization. With the wide range of cloud computing services we offer, every business can get the cloud computing services they need.

We are committed to protecting the safety and integrity of your data, no matter where it lives. Contact us today to learn more about your organization’s managed services and cloud options.

Protected Harbor Recognized as a Top Managed Service Provider by Design Rush

Protected Harbor Recognized as a Top Managed Service Provider

 

Protected Harbor Recognized as a Top Managed Service Provider by Design Rush

 

Today Protected Harbor was recognized as one of the Top Managed Service Providers by DesignRush, a B2B (Business to Business) marketplace for agencies. This accreditation is only given to companies that have been thoroughly researched and analyzed based on their history, vision, business model, products or services, company executives, and advisors.

“At Protected Harbor, we aim to set the standard for excellence in managed services and technology. We want to help businesses and individuals get the best-managed services, from designing their infrastructure to cybersecurity. We want to simplify the technology adoption process and allow companies to quickly make informed decisions about the future of their business technology.” – Richard Luna.

Previously, Protected Harbor was also recognized as a top cloud computing company in the US by Goodfirms.

Protected Harbor was chosen by DesignRush for demonstrating a commitment to technical excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction while serving small to mid-size businesses.

DesignRush helps companies select the ideal firm that can best represent their brand, comprehend their objectives and collaborate successfully with them. Protected Harbor’s 90+ Net Promoter Score for their Managed IT Services, Network and Infrastructure Services, IT Help Desk, and IT Support made the company a perfect fit.

This recognition is a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence in customer service and exceptional customer support. Protected Harbor strongly emphasizes customer satisfaction and pays close attention to the needs of its existing customers. By providing high-quality security services and utilizing live chat and customer support tools, the company has improved customer satisfaction and retained its customer base.

Protected Harbor also conducts customer satisfaction surveys to ensure that it is meeting the needs of its customers and addressing any concerns they may have. Through these efforts, the company has achieved a low churn rate and maintained a high level of satisfaction among its customers.

The dedication to providing an excellent customer experience has helped it to stand out in a crowded market and solidify its position as a top-managed service provider.

Protected Harbor helps local, and national businesses use technology to solve their business problems and are committed to driving digital transformation for small and midsize businesses.

The company has over 30 years of experience deploying advanced engineering solutions centered on collaboration, cloud migration, networking, cyber security, and Managed Services. With Protected Harbor, businesses and organizations can feel confident that their data is secure and protected in the cloud.

Protected Harbor Recognized as a Top Managed Service ProviderThe award of Top Managed Service Provider by DesignRush recognizes Protected Harbor as a top IT Company and technology consultant whose forward-thinking approach to providing managed services is changing the landscape of the business technology.

With digital and technological techniques that support your company’s objectives, Protected Harbor’s IT specialists will help reduce stressful day-to-day tech issues, minimize costly downtime, and improve operational maturity.

Like many other local IT companies, Protected Harbor helps with everything from IT support, remote workforce solutions, and IT infrastructure to cloud migration, VoIP phone systems, and data center hosting.

But unlike traditional MSPs, we pride ourselves on our customer’s happiness. That’s why we ensure our 24/7/365 customer service is second to none. Whenever you need us, we’re always here. Got a problem at 2:00 am? A live person will be there to answer your call and resolve the issue before sun-up.

Protected Harbor’s approach to customer service goes beyond just solving problems and closing tickets. We aim to connect on a human level, getting to know you and your business so we can function like an extension of your team.

That is why over 90% of our business comes from client referrals, and we have a 98% customer retention rate. Protected Harbor is the last I.T. company you will ever have to hire. Contact our team today to experience what a true partnership and excellence in customer service is like.[/vc_column_text]

Advantages of Partnering with Managed Services Providers

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Advantages of Partnering with Managed Services Providers

In today’s digital world, it is almost impossible for big enterprises to small and medium-sized businesses to function without technology. With so many different products and service offerings available, most companies struggle to meet the demand. As a result, many business owners are partnering with managed services providers to take some of the load off their shoulders.

These professionals will handle all technology-related administrative tasks and help you avoid costly IT repairs or system failures.

The Protected Harbor Managed Service Provider (MSP) Partner Advantage program is now available. It is designed to assist your company’s growth by accelerating the time to market, expanding your clientele, and increasing profitability.

This blog post will share some advice on partnering with MSPs for your company and what to watch out for when signing contracts or service-level agreements.

 

What is a Managed Service Provider?

A managed service provider (MSP) is a company that offers a wide range of IT services. There are many different types of managed services. Still, they all have a few things in common: – Service Level Agreement (SLA): This contract outlines the services provided, response times, and any penalties if the company fails to meet those goals.

Customized Plans: Some MSPs will have standardized plans, but most will work with you to create a customized plan that fits your needs and budget.

24/7 Support: All MSPs will provide 24/7 support for their clients. This means you can call them whenever you have a problem, even at 2 AM.

Backup and Disaster Recovery: It’s crucial to have a backup system in place, so you don’t lose any data if your system fails. A managed service provider will have a backup plan with regular tests.

Cybersecurity: With the rise in cyber-attacks, getting day-to-day management services or standard information technology services is not enough. Therefore, you must partner with MSP, which provides all services including cybersecurity.

 

How Can MSPs Help Your Company?

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can significantly enhance your organization’s efficiency and effectiveness by providing robust data management systems. A well-designed data management strategy is critical for successful business processes and informed decision-making. MSPs can help your organization develop and implement such a strategy by leveraging their expertise in managing data models, storage, and data governance.

MSPs can also provide data integration services that allow businesses to extract meaningful insights from the data collected. These insights can then be used to make informed business decisions and improve overall performance. Additionally, MSPs can assist in the development and management of data warehouses and business intelligence systems, which enable businesses to access critical data and insights easily.

MSPs can also help organizations leverage machine learning and other advanced technologies to analyze vast amounts of data and extract valuable insights. This can help businesses identify opportunities and make informed decisions that drive growth and profitability.

A managed cloud solution provided by an MSP can help businesses optimize their IT infrastructure and ensure they get the right service level. MSPs can provide a range of services, from basic infrastructure support to full-scale managed cloud services, depending on the needs of the business.

Most MSPs will offer various services including networking, infrastructure managementdata security, cloud computing, voice and communications, disaster recovery and business continuity, endpoint management, remote monitoring and management, data management, and application management.

 

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Important Questions to Ask Before Signing Any Contract

Before signing any contract, you must ensure that the MSP is a good fit for your company. Here are a few questions when vetting managed services providers: – Is the MSP a good fit for my company? – What is the MSP’s track record? – How does the MSP protect my data? – What are the MSP’s rates and terms? – How will the MSP and my team work together? – Are there any hidden costs associated with the MSP? – How does the MSP handle customer service? – What are the MSP’s cancellation procedures?

 

Reasons to Partner With Us

Extending Your Services Portfolio

 

Multi-tenant, cloud-based solutions that are simple to scale and deploy can be used to improve current services and develop new ones.

A Track Record With Merit

 

Protected Harbor is recognized by industry analysts like Goodfirms and other top companies for its data resilience and performance.

The Best Collaborations

 

The tech platforms used by clients and service providers, such as Microsoft, Amazon, Oracle, SAP, and Google, are supported by us.

 

 

 

Simplifying Advanced Data Systems

 

Our selection of Intelligent Data Services allows you to design data protection procedures for your clients that significantly impact outcomes. You can be confident in delivering services powered by Protected Harbor, from guaranteeing data and application availability to preventing cyber risks and ensuring effective business continuity.

Customize Your Customer Data

 

You can determine how to manage client data with choices like innovative deployment and contactless capabilities.

Adaptable Consumption Models For A Range Of Business Requirements

The architecture of Protected Harbor Services makes it simple to use and lowers the total cost of ownership (TCO). Options for utility subscription contracts increase flexibility and savings.

 

As you can see, partnering with a managed services provider can save your company a lot of money and headaches. The best MSPs, like Protected Harbor, will help you manage your technology infrastructure, reduce your costs, and improve the uptime of your systems. At the same time, you will have the flexibility to handle projects outside the managed services scope.

Protected Harbor engineers are highly skilled specialists capable of application migration, development, and continuing maintenance services. If you’d like to partner with us for your managed services and cybersecurity needs, this is the right time. Contact us today for a free IT Audit and learn how our partner advantage benefits you.

Should I Hire an IT Guy? Should I Hire an MSP?

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Should I Hire an IT Guy? Should I Hire an MSP?

IT guys and MSPs are popping up everywhere these days. From your local hardware store to the big box retailers, there’s no shortage of places you can find a helpful tech or an experienced service provider (or both!). Even so, that doesn’t mean they’re all equally dependable.

The decision to hire an IT guy or an MSP (Managed Service Provider) depends on your organization’s specific needs and resources. Choosing an IT guy and an MSP should be based on carefully assessing your organization’s needs and resources. It may also be worth considering a combination of both, with an IT guy for on-site support and an MSP for broader IT management and support. With that in mind, here are some pros and cons to hiring IT guys and MSPs regarding your company’s IT needs.

 

Why Hire a Managed IT Service Provider?

Many companies don’t know what they’re doing when it comes to managing their IT needs. They often don’t have a dedicated team working on their technology and flounder in an overwhelmed and unproductive environment.

A managed IT service provider can help you get a handle on your technology and avoid these pitfalls. They may be able to provide solutions that are tailored to your specific needs. With an MSP, you can be sure you’re getting a full-service approach that includes expert advice, total control over all aspects of your technology, and a consistent level of service.

The managed IT service provider can handle more complicated IT tasks like backup and disaster recovery methods, network administration, cybersecurity procedures, data management services, and server management, to mention a few. In other words, think of your internal IT department as your daily IT support provider.

 

Pros and Cons When Hiring an IT Guy or MSP

Like any other business decision, there are pros and cons to hiring an IT guy or an MSP.

Hiring an IT Guy

Pros:

•       An IT guy can assist you with hardware configuration and setup.

•       An IT guy will be available to your business during peak business hours.

·        A good IT person should be able to assist your business and staff members with desktop repair, virus removal, and software issues.

Cons:

• Hiring a single IT specialist with a salary, health insurance, and other perks may be expensive depending on experience and specialty.

• It can be too much work for one individual to be the network manager, infrastructure planner, and IT support person for your IT department.

• The talents of your in-house IT specialist might only be dependent on the work they perform daily; they might not be as quick to adopt new technology.

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Hiring an MSP

Pros:

•       Managed service providers have access to cutting-edge equipment. Your MSP should be able to support you with workstations, networks, servers, software, and hardware, regardless of the industry you’re in.

•       The most crucial aspect of any organization, continuity, should be protected by your managed IT service provider. MSPs should be able to guarantee that your system is up and operating as much as possible by reducing the risk of downtime.

•       You have access to a group of committed IT experts who work on what they do for at least eight to nine hours daily.

•       Some remote IT support services are accessible around-the-clock.

•       Managed services are available with various services and expertise to pick from, whether in NYC or any other major city.

•       You should receive an SLA (Service Level Agreement) from your managed service provider that outlines the results you anticipate from your collaboration.

•       Managed service consultants bill firms with set monthly fees to help them better control their spending.

Cons:

•       Location is a crucial factor to consider when picking an MSP. We advise businesses to employ MSPs in the region or, at the very least, in the same city. When anything goes wrong on-site and companies have to wait for the MSP to send an IT specialist to assist fix it, the waiting game is a major drawback of joining a managed IT services provider.

•       Service level agreements (SLAs) allow MSPs to function based on the signed contracts. Expect to pay extra fees if your contract doesn’t cover something.

 

Why do you Need a Dedicated IT Team?

Having a dedicated IT team is essential for any organization that relies on technology to operate efficiently and effectively. A dedicated IT team can provide essential support and expertise to ensure your organization’s technology infrastructure operates smoothly, securely, and cost-effectively. Investing in a dedicated IT team can improve productivity, prevent downtime and security incidents, and support your organization’s growth and success.

You’ll likely need to bring on a dedicated IT team if hiring an IT guy or an MSP. This is because most managed IT service providers will only hire entry-level IT staff. You may consider bringing a CIO or a senior IT executive who can manage other employees.

As an IT department takes shape, you may consider hiring experienced IT executives to oversee specific aspects of your technology. For instance, if your company has a significant revenue stream that relies on technology, you may want to hire someone to manage the revenue stream.

 

Conclusion

Managed IT services are here to stay. But remember that while they are cost-effective and can help your business, they are not a silver bullet. In other words, they’re a great choice to supplement your in-house IT team if you have one.

The best course of action is to understand your business thoroughly. How invested you are in your money’s capabilities, demands, and functions will determine how much you can get out of it. Whether it’s a single IT professional or a team of managed service providers, what counts is that your needs are appropriately handled.

While most MSPs focus on outsourcing technical tasks, Protected Harbor is different. It provides managed security services (MSS) to businesses, offering proactive monitoring of physical and cyber assets. Protected Harbor is the right choice if you are looking for a managed service provider that can grow with your company as it scales.

We are the top-rated manage service providers in Rockland county, NY. We work with businesses at all stages, from startups to enterprises. If you need ongoing assistance with managing your IT infrastructure or if you want to outsource a specific task like software development, we can help. We pride ourselves on being a one-stop shop for all your technology needs.

Contact us today for a more hands-off approach to your IT and security needs. Get a free IT Audit here.

The Importance of IT Service Provider: Truth to Power

The Importance of IT Service Provider: Truth to Power

Today’s business landscape is highly competitive, and a company must adopt a strategy to give them an edge over its competitors. Technology has become a primary source of differentiation for companies in all sectors.

You’ve probably heard about the importance of the service-provider relationship. After all, it’s a topic that discussion boards, blogs, and articles have been tackling for years. But how much of this information is theory vs. practice? If you had to implement these strategies tomorrow, would you know what action steps to take?

Welcome to another video in the series Uptime with Richard Luna discussing the importance of service-provider relations and transparency. What’s the truth to power between the promised services and the actual delivery by the IT service providers and MSPs?

 

The Importance of a Service-Provider Relationship

When people in the business world talk about service-provider relationships, they refer to the partnerships businesses build with their partners. These could include vendors, suppliers, distributors, IT service providers, managed service providers, or system integrators. A service-provider relationship is designed to help both parties thrive and succeed.

When you partner with a company to provide essential technology services, like hosting, IT infrastructure, security, or managed services, you’re entering into a partnership that will benefit both of you in different ways. For example, let’s say you run a chain of car dealerships that need an IT infrastructure to process credit card payments and keep your staff connected. If you work with a managed services provider (MSP) to help you with these tasks, you’re entering into a partnership that will benefit you in different ways.

Truth in Transparency: Know What You’re Buying

IT service providers are critical to any business’s success, but they are not all created equally. Many service providers offer various technology-related services, each with unique value propositions, business models, and strengths and weaknesses. That’s why it’s important to partner with an IT service provider that is a good fit for your company.

Partnering with a service provider that is a good fit for your company can help you avoid common pitfalls that can disrupt your business and negatively impact your bottom line, such as paying too much for services you don’t need or are overpriced, or not receiving the level of support and maintenance your company needs to thrive.

Before signing up with an IT service provider, ensure you understand exactly what you’re buying to ensure the relationship is a good fit for your business. You don’t want to sign up with a service provider that is overpriced or doesn’t offer a solution that lines up with your business needs.

 

The Importance of a Good SLA

The service-level agreement (SLA) is critical to any managed services agreement. The SLA outlines the service provider’s obligations, such as the level of customer support, the amount of downtime, and the uptime of critical systems. It also includes the customer’s obligations.

It is essential to make sure the SLA is in your favor. If you are a customer working with an MSP, the SLA is your opportunity to hold the service provider accountable for their promises by clearly laying out what you expect from them. It is also an opportunity for you to establish a baseline for performance.

If you are an MSP, the SLA is your opportunity to outline the commitments you make to your customers. It is also an opportunity for you to set a baseline for performance. For example, if your SLA states that you will have a technician respond to an issue within four hours, that is the expectation you need to live up to every single time.

 

Takeaways

It is a strategic technology partner offering more than just a product or service. It is a partner that provides expertise, guidance, and support to help you grow your business through IT services.

Protected Harbor is not your typical MSP. It’s a managed service provider with a twist. The company specializes in cloud-based software solutions, including data backup, recovery, ransomware, and other cybersecurity services. Our team of MSP experts works with you every step of the way.

We conduct a thorough assessment of your business and technology landscape. We then customize a solution that meets your exact needs. Contact one of our experts today for a free IT Audit and discover why we are different.

The Pitfalls of a Modern MSP

 

The Pitfalls of a Modern MSP

Modern managed services providers (MSPs) are not your typical IT solution provider. These organizations are agile, personable, and tech-savvy. Their services are built to meet business needs in the modern age of technology, but there’s more than what meets the eye. However, because they’re so advanced compared to other IT solution providers, they often have issues that typical MSPs don’t face. For example, the pitfalls of a modern MSP can be tricky to navigate. Any organization has its ups and downs, but these common pitfalls can hinder its growth if left unresolved. Watch the latest video in our series Uptime with Richard Luna to discover the pitfalls of a modern MSP and how you can avoid them.

Yes, modern MSPs can present pitfalls, and it is essential to be aware of these potential issues before choosing an MSP for your organization. Modern Managed Service Providers (MSPs) can present pitfalls like overreliance on technology, hidden costs, vendor lock-in, and data security risks. We will discuss this in detail in the video.

 

Reselling Services

IT service providers of all kinds often choose to resell third-party services. However, reselling services can lead to issues in the future. These services can be challenging to forecast, and the risks can outweigh the benefits. For example, if you buy cloud services, you may not know the SLA of each provider, the availability of each type of service, or the performance of each provider. Because of this, you may not be able to guarantee a high level of service to your clients if they experience issues with their hosted applications or cloud storage.

 

Limited Experience

Most modern MSPs are generalists that provide a wide variety of services. They often offer a range of services, but they typically lack experience. Generals are like infantry. They are good at what they do, but they would do better as specialists who do one thing well. Generalists find it challenging to compete for new business in an industry where specialization leads to higher-quality services and more satisfied clients. By focusing on a specific set of products or services, MSPs can differentiate themselves from other generalists and offer clients more value, leading to increased customer satisfaction and a more competitive edge.

 

The Pitfalls of a Modern MSP middleLack of a Proactive Culture

Many modern MSPs are built around providing reactive support. They wait for clients to call with an issue before they start working on a solution. This is fine to an extent, but it creates an environment where problems are prioritized above proactive efforts to prevent issues from ever occurring. Similarly, some MSPs may ignore clients who don’t have a point. This leads to a lack of communication and a lack of relationship building. A proactive culture enables MSPs to build stronger relationships with clients and engage with them in ways that don’t solely focus on problems. Communication creates a more personable relationship between the MSP and its clients and allows the organization to provide better value to its customers by offering more than just reactive support.

 

Summing up

Modern MSPs like Protected Harbor are driven by data, which allows them to identify trends and take advantage of them. With the right tools, our team can gather meaningful information from client interactions and make data-driven decisions that will benefit your company. Continue to watch our video for knowledge and insights on MSPs and how to choose the right one for your business.

Protected Harbor is the top managed service provider in hudson valley new york. Get a free IT Audit today, consult one of our experts and discover why we aren’t just your typical MSP.