Break vs. Fix

Attribute	Break	Fix
Cause of Issue	Unplanned event or failure	Identify root cause and address it
Response Time	Reactively responds after the issue occurs	Proactively prevents issues or quickly responds to minimize downtime
Cost	Can be costly due to downtime and emergency repairs	Cost-effective if preventive measures are in place
Impact	Can disrupt operations and lead to loss of productivity	Minimizes impact on operations and maintains productivity

Introduction

When it comes to managing IT issues, businesses have two main approaches: Break and Fix and Managed Services. Both have their own set of attributes and benefits, but understanding the differences between the two can help businesses make informed decisions about which approach is best for their needs.

Break and Fix

Break and Fix is a reactive approach to IT management. In this model, businesses only address IT issues when they arise, meaning that they wait for something to break before fixing it. This can lead to downtime, lost productivity, and potentially higher costs in the long run as issues may escalate if not addressed promptly.

One of the main attributes of Break and Fix is its pay-as-you-go pricing model. Businesses only pay for IT services when they need them, which can be appealing for organizations with limited budgets or sporadic IT needs. However, this can also lead to unpredictable costs as businesses may not know when IT issues will arise.

Another attribute of Break and Fix is its lack of proactive monitoring and maintenance. Without regular monitoring and maintenance, businesses may be more susceptible to IT issues and security breaches. This can result in more downtime and potentially higher costs to resolve issues when they do occur.

Overall, Break and Fix can be a cost-effective option for businesses with limited IT needs or budgets. However, it may not be the most efficient or secure approach to IT management in the long run.

Managed Services

Managed Services, on the other hand, is a proactive approach to IT management. In this model, businesses work with a managed service provider to monitor and maintain their IT systems on an ongoing basis. This can help prevent issues before they occur, leading to less downtime, increased productivity, and potentially lower costs in the long run.

One of the main attributes of Managed Services is its fixed monthly pricing model. Businesses pay a set monthly fee for IT services, which can help with budgeting and predictability. This can be especially beneficial for businesses looking to avoid unexpected IT costs.

Another attribute of Managed Services is its focus on proactive monitoring and maintenance. Managed service providers regularly monitor IT systems for issues and perform maintenance tasks to keep systems running smoothly. This can help prevent downtime and security breaches, leading to a more secure and efficient IT environment.

Overall, Managed Services can be a more comprehensive and secure option for businesses with ongoing IT needs. While it may come with a higher upfront cost compared to Break and Fix, the long-term benefits of proactive IT management can outweigh the initial investment.

Conclusion

When comparing Break and Fix and Managed Services, it's important for businesses to consider their IT needs, budget, and long-term goals. While Break and Fix may be a cost-effective option for businesses with sporadic IT needs, Managed Services can provide a more secure and efficient approach to IT management. By understanding the attributes of each approach, businesses can make informed decisions about which option is best suited to their needs.