Break/Fix vs. Proactive IT:

Protecting and Elevating Professional Services Companies

If you run a professional services business (banking, financial services, healthcare, legal, manufacturing), agility and efficiency are paramount.

As you steer your company through the challenges of business today, your IT infrastructure should be a springboard, not a hurdle. You just can’t wait for IT to respond when something breaks—you need IT to be in front of both issues and opportunities.

We’ve created a comparison table, but it isn’t merely about IT—it’s about ensuring that your business remains resilient, responsive, and ahead of the competition.

By grasping the profound differences between a break-fix approach and a proactive MSP, you’re setting your firm on a trajectory towards unparalleled operational excellence.

Compare the break/fix model to proactive IT and discover how the right IT choice can redefine your service delivery, making client satisfaction and your company’s reputation true competitive differentiators.

Break-Fix Consultant/Firm

Proactive MSP

Business Continuity

Response time is reactive, leading to possible delays and extended downtime. Costs and support can be unpredictable, potentially affecting long-term continuity.
Businesses might experience prolonged downtimes waiting for issues to be resolved.

With 24x7 monitoring, problems are spotted early, reducing downtime. Predictable costs, tailored support, and a focus on prevention mean better alignment with your business's continuity needs.
With ongoing monitoring and preventive measures, downtime is minimized. Issues are identified early and resolved before they affect business operations.

Security

Security measures are implemented after issues or breaches occur.

Ensures that security measures are always up-to-date. Often conduct regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and implement preventive measures.

Cost Predictability

Costs can be unpredictable. A calm month might cost nothing, but when major problems hit, the expenses can skyrocket.

Monthly fees keep your IT investment steady and predictable, making budgeting a breeze. No surprises, just solid planning.

Expertise and Training

May specialize in particular areas or problems. Continuous training might not be a priority since issues are addressed on an as-needed basis.

Training is continuously invested in teams. They are updated on the latest technologies, security threats, and best practices.

Service Model

When something breaks, the client contacts the consultant or firm to fix it. It's reactive by nature.

Ongoing service that proactively manages, monitors, and maintains a client's IT infrastructure. Attempts to prevent issues before they happen.

Relationship Approach

Relationships are often transactional. Interaction occurs primarily when there's a problem.

A more partnership-based relationship. Works continuously with the client to understand their needs, optimize their infrastructure, and plan for future growth.

Scalability

May not have the resources or expertise to assist businesses as they grow and their IT needs change.

Often equipped to scale services as businesses grow. They can assist with IT planning, ensuring a smooth expansion.

Innovation & Tech

Focus on resolving current problems, not necessarily on introducing new solutions or technologies.
Technology might be outdated or lack integration, causing inefficiencies.

Introduces their clients to new technologies or solutions that can improve efficiency, security, and business performance.