Is Break Fix IT Support Right for Your Business? Weighing the Pros and Cons
This is a question that a lot of people ask when considering options for IT support. Break Fix is actually a pretty simple idea, but knowing the pros and cons can help you make smarter IT decisions for your business.
At its core, Break Fix means “If it breaks, fix it. If it doesn’t, leave it alone.” Instead of paying for ongoing support, you only pay when something goes wrong. Imagine it like car repairs. You don’t need a mechanic every day, just when there’s an issue. But with IT, there are some key differences, and that’s where it gets interesting.
It sounds like a great way to save money, right? No monthly fees, just pay as needed. You get quick help when you need it, but there’s no ongoing commitment. Straightforward and simple! But there are some challenges, especially when it comes to IT. Here are the drawbacks:
No Preventative Maintenance: In IT, some issues are preventable with regular checkups. Think about it like maintaining your car’s oil and tire pressure to avoid bigger problems. With Break Fix, nobody is monitoring your systems, so minor issues might go unnoticed until they turn into costly breakdowns.
Downtime Costs: When something does break, it can mean a full stop for work that depends on that tech. Every minute your team spends waiting for repairs can cost money. Many organizations overlook this hidden cost of Break Fix.
Security Risks: Cyber threats don’t always announce themselves with a “break.” Hackers can quietly slip in, gather your data, and leave without setting off alarms. Without proactive monitoring, these threats often go undetected. By the time something seems broken, the damage might already be done.
Outdated Technology: Without regular updates, technology can fall behind. It’s like trying to run new apps on a phone from 10 years ago. Eventually, your systems can become incompatible with new software or features, adding extra costs or hassles down the line.
Incentives Matter: Here’s the ironic part: in a Break Fix model, technicians are only paid when something breaks. So, from a financial standpoint, they benefit more from issues than smooth operations. It’s nobody’s intention, but it’s a built-in disadvantage.
There are situations where Break Fix can work. Maybe you have temporary fixes available, like backup systems, or your work won’t be disrupted if certain tech goes down. In low-risk scenarios, it might be a suitable option.
For most organizations, the cost of downtime, security vulnerabilities, and outdated systems means Break Fix isn’t the best fit. While it seems cost-effective upfront, the hidden costs can quickly add up.
So, is Break Fix right for your IT? It depends on your tolerance for risk and downtime. Managed IT services, where you pay a fixed fee for continuous support, offer a proactive approach that helps prevent issues before they interrupt your work. If you have questions or need assistance, schedule a call with us or visit our Learning Center for more information. We're here to help!
