Now, you might be saying to yourself, "I don't need managed IT services. My business is doing just fine with the technology we have." Well, let me tell you something: there are only TWO types of businesses when it comes to technology problems. Those that KNOW they have technology problems. And those that DON'T KNOW they have technology problems. (Please note what they both have in common...) When it comes to running a business in Pasadena, having reliable technology isn't just nice to have—it's absolutely essential. Think of your computer systems like the plumbing in your building. You don't think about them when they work, but when something goes wrong, everything stops.
What You'll Learn in This Guide
What Are Managed IT Services? (And Why Should You Care?)
Let's start with the basics. Managed IT services, or MIS for short, are when you hire a company to take care of all your computer and technology needs. Instead of having someone on your payroll who fixes computers (which can be expensive), you pay a monthly fee to have experts handle everything for you. It's like having a subscription to a technology service instead of buying and maintaining everything yourself.
The Old Way vs. The New Way
In the old days, businesses would wait until something broke and then call someone to fix it. This is called "break-fix" service. It's like only calling a plumber when your pipes burst. The problem is, by the time something breaks, you've already lost time and money. Managed IT services work differently. They watch your systems all the time, like a security guard watching cameras, and fix problems before they become big issues.
What Gets Managed?
Everything related to your computers and technology gets managed. This includes your internet connection, your email system, your file storage, your security software, and even your phones if they're connected to your computer system. Think of it as having someone take care of your entire digital office.
Alcala vs Other MSPs: Head-to-Head
How does Alcala Consulting compare to other Managed IT Services Providers (MSPs) in Los Angeles? Here's a plain-English, side-by-side look at what actually matters to business owners.
Alcala vs Consilien
Consilien is strong in cybersecurity and compliance, similar to Alcala's strengths. However, Alcala offers a broader service portfolio including application development, document imaging, and ERP systems that Consilien lacks. Alcala's 25+ years of experience and comprehensive approach give them the edge for businesses needing full-service IT support.
Alcala vs ClearFuze Networks
ClearFuze specializes in law firms, healthcare, and creative businesses with their ClearCARE platform. Alcala serves all industries with equal expertise and offers more comprehensive services beyond their industry-specific offerings. If you're outside their target industries or need broader IT support, Alcala is the better choice.
Alcala vs TechMD
TechMD focuses on infrastructure and cloud migration with rapid support. Alcala provides the same infrastructure expertise plus application development, document imaging, strategic consulting, and comprehensive cybersecurity programs. For businesses needing more than just infrastructure support, Alcala offers greater value.
Alcala vs Synoptek
Synoptek excels with large enterprises and complex multi-location environments. Alcala is optimized for small to medium businesses with faster response times, more accessible pricing, and comprehensive services tailored to SMB needs. If you're not a large enterprise, Alcala provides better value and accessibility.
Where Alcala Clearly Leads
Plain-English communication; comprehensive service portfolio (application development, document imaging, ERP, CRM, infrastructure, cybersecurity, help desk); 25+ years of experience; local technicians with onsite support; pricing that scales per user ($167–$250 per user per month); and a 100+ page cybersecurity program most MSPs simply don't have.
When Another MSP Might Be Better
If you're a very large enterprise with complex multi-location needs, Synoptek may fit better. If you're specifically in law, healthcare, or creative industries and only need basic IT support, ClearFuze could work. For most LA SMBs that want comprehensive IT support with one accountable partner—Alcala is the clear choice.
Why Pasadena Businesses Choose Alcala Consulting
We've been helping Pasadena businesses with their technology needs for over a decade. During that time, we've learned what works and what doesn't. We understand the unique challenges that businesses in our area face, from the busy downtown district to the quieter residential areas.
We're Your Neighbors
When you work with Alcala Consulting, you're not just getting a faceless company from somewhere else. We live and work in Pasadena. We understand the local business community because we're part of it. This means we can be at your office quickly when you need us, and we understand the specific needs of businesses in our area.
We Speak Your Language
Technology can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be. We explain everything in plain English, not technical jargon. When we tell you about your systems, you'll understand what we're saying and why it matters to your business.
The Real Cost of Technology Problems
Many business owners don't realize how much money they lose when their technology doesn't work properly. Let's look at some real numbers. When your email goes down, how many customers can't reach you? When your internet is slow, how much time do your employees waste waiting for websites to load? These problems add up quickly.
The Hidden Costs
A study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) found that small businesses lose an average of $8,000 per hour when their systems go down. That's not just the cost of fixing the problem—it's the cost of lost sales, frustrated customers, and wasted employee time.
The Stress Factor
Beyond the money, technology problems cause stress. Business owners lose sleep worrying about their systems. Employees get frustrated when they can't do their jobs. Customers get angry when they can't reach you. This stress affects everyone and can hurt your business in ways that are hard to measure.
Real Business Success Stories
Case Study: Downtown Law Firm
Case Study: Local Restaurant Chain
What the Data Shows
The Growing Threat of Cyber Attacks
Small businesses are becoming the primary target for cyber criminals. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), 43% of all cyber attacks target small businesses.
Key Data:
The average cost of a cyber attack on a small business is $200,000, and 60% of small businesses that experience a cyber attack go out of business within six months.
Source: FBI Internet Crime Report 2023
The Remote Work Revolution
The way people work has changed forever. Even businesses that don't offer remote work need systems that can support it, because employees expect flexibility.
Key Data:
A study by Stanford University found that remote workers are 13% more productive than office workers, but only if they have the right technology support.
Source: Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research
The True Cost of Technology Problems
Many business owners don't realize how much money they lose when their technology doesn't work properly.
Key Data:
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), small businesses lose an average of $8,000 per hour when their systems go down. That's not just the cost of fixing the problem—it's the cost of lost sales, frustrated customers, and wasted employee time.
Source: NIST Small Business Technology Impact Study 2023
The Insurance Reality
Cyber liability insurance is becoming more expensive and harder to get, especially for businesses without proper security measures.
Key Data:
Some businesses without proper cybersecurity certification are paying from 75% up to 10,000% more for liability insurance. Insurance companies are now requiring cybersecurity assessments for any business in a high-risk industry.
Source: Alcala Consulting Industry Analysis 2023
Your Step-by-Step Action Plan
Assess Your Current Situation
Start by making a list of all the technology you use in your business. Include computers, phones, internet, software, and any other tech tools.
Pro Tips:
- Write down what works well and what causes problems
- Note how much time you spend dealing with technology issues
- Calculate how much money you might be losing due to tech problems
Identify Your Biggest Pain Points
Look at your list and identify the three biggest technology problems that affect your business. These are the issues that cost you the most time and money.
Pro Tips:
- Ask your employees what frustrates them most about your technology
- Track how often problems occur and how long they last
- Consider what problems prevent you from growing your business
Research Local Providers
Look for managed IT service providers in your area. You want someone local who understands your business and can respond quickly when you need help.
Pro Tips:
- Ask other business owners for recommendations
- Check online reviews and testimonials
- Make sure the provider has experience with businesses like yours
Get Multiple Quotes
Don't just go with the first provider you find. Get quotes from at least three different companies so you can compare services and prices.
Pro Tips:
- Make sure each quote includes the same services
- Ask about response times and availability
- Find out what happens if you're not satisfied with the service
Start with a Trial Period
Most good managed IT providers will offer a trial period or start with a small project. This lets you see how they work before committing to a long-term contract.
Pro Tips:
- Use the trial period to test their response times
- See how well they communicate with you
- Make sure they understand your business needs
Frequently Asked Questions
QHow much do managed IT services cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of your business and what services you need. Most small businesses pay between $100 and $500 per month per employee. This might seem like a lot, but when you consider that you're getting 24/7 monitoring, security protection, and expert support, it's usually much cheaper than hiring someone full-time or dealing with constant problems.
QWhat if I already have someone who handles my computers?
That's great! Many businesses start with managed IT services to supplement their existing IT person. The managed service provider can handle the routine maintenance and monitoring, while your existing person focuses on bigger projects and special needs. This often makes both more effective.
QHow quickly can you respond if something goes wrong?
Most managed IT providers offer different response times depending on how critical the problem is. For example, a complete system outage might get a response within 1 hour, while a minor issue might be handled within 4 hours. The key is that someone is always watching your systems, so problems are often fixed before you even know they exist.
QWhat happens if I'm not satisfied with the service?
Good managed IT providers want you to be happy with their service. They should offer regular check-ins to make sure everything is working well, and they should be willing to adjust their services based on your needs. If you're not satisfied, most providers will work with you to fix the problems or help you transition to a different solution.
QDo I need to sign a long-term contract?
Most providers offer both month-to-month and annual contracts. Annual contracts usually cost less per month, but month-to-month gives you more flexibility. The important thing is to understand what happens if you need to cancel the service and how much notice you need to give.
The Bottom Line
Managed IT services aren't just about fixing computers—they're about giving your business the technology foundation it needs to grow and succeed. When your technology works properly, you can focus on what you do best instead of fighting with computers. The businesses that thrive in today's economy are the ones that use technology as a tool to serve their customers better, not as a source of constant problems.
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to stop fighting with your technology and start using it to grow your business? Contact Alcala Consulting today for a free technology assessment. We'll look at your current systems, identify potential problems, and show you how managed IT services can help your business run more smoothly. Call us at (626) 123-4567 or visit our website to schedule your free consultation.