Small and mid-sized businesses have more IT-related responsibilities than ever, from implementing AI to keeping up with modern cyber threats. It’s become far too much for a small IT team or IT administrators to tackle on their own. Virtual or outsourced CIO services can help a business plot its technology strategy for the future, manage and support its in-house IT team while successfully leading projects to completion. As technology becomes increasingly complicated yet essential for growth, far-sighted guidance from an executive-level advisor with years of experience can be the cost-effective solution your business, and your existing IT staff, needs.
In the all too recent past, a business’s technology needs were simple: a few computers protected by anti-virus software that didn’t require much effort to manage in-house. Businesses nowadays require more sophistication in their technology plans for several reasons:
Technology has gotten more complicated – Businesses must manage more devices than ever, including cell phones, tablets, Internet of Things (IoT) devices and more. These devices must be able to share data, communicate across distances and remain protected from cyber threats.
Cyberthreats have increased in number and sophistication – Cyber criminals use a variety of tactics to gain access to protected systems, and their methodology has become so elaborate at times that new cybersecurity tactics are necessary to overcome them. Improving and enhancing your current cybersecurity after an in-depth review will help keep unauthorized criminals from accessing your data.
Improvements in technology allow for more innovation and efficiency – New technological developments in automation and AI, among other tools, have introduced new opportunities for businesses, requiring you to educate yourself and your workforce before implementing them into your processes. As options expand, businesses must review their goals to ensure your technology plan aligns with what’s right for you at the right time.
What is a Virtual or Outsourced CIO?
A virtual CIO performs the same duties as a conventional Chief Information Officer. They provide IT leadership to your in-house staff and help guide your business’s technology strategy when a traditional CIO isn’t necessary or a temporary solution is needed for major initiatives. A virtual CIO would be responsible for all software, hardware and infrastructure, in addition to the overall management of their organization’s data. At times, a business’s goals may fall out of alignment with their IT goals. A virtual CIO works with your executive and leadership teams to ensure the two fully support one another moving forward. Some virtual CIO services might include:
- Modernizing infrastructure and applications
- Security management
- Improving IT operations and systems performance
- Cost control and expense management
What are the Benefits of a Virtual CIO Services?
Hiring a virtual CIO can be more cost-efficient than hiring a conventional CIO. You can avoid overhead costs such as salary, health insurance and other benefits you’d incur with an in-house hire. Existing staff can rely on a virtual CIO for support and guidance. A virtual CIO will also have deep experience in their field available for you to use to your advantage. Other benefits of a virtual CIO include:
- Strategic alignment between your technology and your organizational goals
- The flexibility to scale your services up or down as needed
- Minimized IT downtime caused by sudden outages or issues with deployments
Virtual CIO Services vs Managed Service Provider (MSP)
How does a virtual CIO differ from a managed service provider (MSP) or other IT outsourcing services? A virtual CIO operates at the executive level of your organization, directing strategic planning and providing leadership to your IT team. A managed service provider is a third-party company that offers a range of IT services such as cybersecurity, disaster recovery, helpdesk management, network management and more.
You have full control over your MSP service, deciding which projects to prioritize while the day-to-day responsibilities are handled externally. You can employ a managed service provider or IT outsourcing company, similar to having an internal IT team or in some cases, a blend of both. This strategy can be followed by hiring a virtual CIO to manage and guide them for added flexibility.
Anders Technology’s virtual CIO services work with your organization’s leadership to design a specialized technology plan tailored to your goals and company culture. Learn more about how a virtual CIO can support your business, and the associated costs, by requesting a meeting with an Anders Technology advisor below.
