Third-party-maintenance providers for optimizing data center

According to Gartner, in a recently published report, third party maintenance providers can provide best solutions when it comes to cost savings with optimum results. This report also marks the key points allowing companies using services from third-party maintenance providers to save enough money and resources to spend on other related activities within the company.

Here are the top five benefits of considering third-party maintenance providers and hybrid support strategies for your data center:

1. Cost savings

TPM programs offer between 50-70% savings on costs in comparison with the traditional equipment manufacturer support offers. This advantage is very important since the financial aspect is always a priority, however, it is imperative to choose wisely the areas where you wish to save. The Gartner report finds that:
“Hardware maintenance is increasingly being considered as a ‘nonstrategic IT’ spending and procurement, with the result being that IT professionals are seeking low-cost alternatives to expensive equipment manufacturer contracts and pricing.”
Even though maintenance is sometimes considered a “nonstrategic” expense, that does not prevent it from becoming an innovative way to maximize the value of your investment. Choosing a reliable support program costing up to 50-60% less than the equipment manufacturer maintenance cost allows you to benefit from your budget in more important areas for the growth of your business. This is a smart strategy that will let your organization reach further than it has ever before. Just check out the details to learn how using a quality hybrid support solution can be better for your business and your budget.

2. Flexible and customized support

Among the disadvantages of equipment manufacturer support, individual attention can be hard to obtain. As a matter of fact, in most cases, you are one of the multiple clients of the equipment manufacturer. How can you really get prioritized service in such a situation? The Gartner report states that:
“Some enterprises consider the flexibility and customized support from third-party maintenance providers as an advantage.”
Working with third-party maintenance providers gives you the advantage of receiving individualized attention and choosing a model that is customized according to your needs. With a TPM strategy, you can enjoy the flexibility of month-to-month contracts and the ability to terminate your contracts without any penalty. Such services can never be provided by the equipment manufacturer.
In addition, since the TPM provider can respond to your needs faster, your issues can be solved quicker. Therefore, your productivity will improve due to faster problem resolution and less time waiting on hold for a representative to assist you.

3. Infrastructure maintenance upgrade

“Asset Sweating,” is a term used in the technology field and it actually means to maintain your investment longer than the equipment manufacturer cycle suggests you should. So by sweating your assets you keep on using them as much as possible after their end-of-sale (EOS) and end-of-life (EOL) dates set by the equipment manufacturer.
Extending the life of your technology assets is a wise strategy. First, you will significantly reduce your capital expenditures. Then if you add a TPM program into your solution, you can reduce your operational expenses as well. The Gartner report states that:
“Customers will often switch to TPMs when the original warranty runs out, rather than renewing the OEM support contract, due to significant increases in equipment manufacturer post warranty pricing.”
When your equipment reaches its EOS or EOL, using equipment manufacturer support for it will cost you more than the value of the hardware it is supporting. Therefore, switching to a TPM solution allows you to maintain your current technology infrastructure at a more suitable price for your budget. This allows you to upgrade your technology investments at a pace that suits your business needs – instead of allowing the equipment manufacturer to dictate your strategy.

4. Solution Customization

When adopting a hybrid approach, you should look into all your options and then decide what is best for your unique needs. All technology infrastructures and businesses are different, so there can never be a “one-size-fits-all” support solution. The Gartner report states that:
“Customers will continue to leverage equipment manufacturer maintenance and TPM maintenance together in a hybrid solution.”
The equipment manufacturer support model is ideal for mission-critical equipment at the core of your network which is still in the beginning of their lifecycle. While the TPM strategy is more convenient for equipment at the edge of your network that may be nearing their EOS/EOL dates. However, it is important to keep in mind that these are not the only options available.

5. Spares program incorporation

Incorporating a spares program is another way to achieve peace of mind. What could be better than having swappable spares ready on-site on short notice? If you find a reliable vendor of used networking hardware then spares become an economically viable option.
Adopting the hybrid support approach consists of studying your individual circumstances and finding the right fit for your technology. A mix of the equipment manufacturer, TPM, and spares could be the most cost-effective solution for your organization.

6. TPM and hybrid support

Third-party maintenance can be a smart alternative to just relying on equipment manufacturer support. Having better options at your disposal gives you a stronger position when selecting your technology platforms. You will be able to decide how your technology investments can meet your needs and drive your business to new heights.

So when you choose hybrid support, you will have the ability to build a solution that best fits your unique circumstances. Keep in mind, though, it is imperative to search for the best provider when selecting a partner for your maintenance. You should truly know and trust your technology partner so that you can rely on their capacity to provide you with the support you need.

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