Many thanks to Nick Hinge, Director of Client Technology, for this thoughtful piece.
My life has changed dramatically over these last two years. In the spring of 2016, we welcomed a baby girl into the world and this spring, we welcomed our new baby boy. Then we decided to move down the road into a new (to us) home. And I thought I was busy before! I really had no concept of the word “busy”.
This new reality has left me with an enhanced appreciation of time. In my previous life, I was a consummate “do it yourselfer,” ready and able to tackle most projects around the house yet still find time to cook a good meal and get some exercise. Now, I must choose carefully how to utilize the little time I have. Should I mow the lawn or go for a bike ride with my daughter? Should I watch the Yankees or get some to sleep before the babies wake up way too early and the juggling commences anew?
We all have tasks that could be outsourced.
This started me thinking about how my situation is similar to time-constrained business managers and why they choose to find a good managed services relationship. I’ve noticed that the most successful business leaders are those who are laser-focused on their core competencies and delivering value in that realm. They decide that any tasks outside of that realm need to be outsourced. It’s not a question of whether a savvy technology person can figure out how to keep all their workstations patched. It’s a question of whether this work is the best use of their time. Often, the answer is no, outsource the mundane technology tasks, and spend more time optimizing that new product launch which will more directly add to the bottom line.
Sometimes our pride gets in the way of clear thinking. In my new situation it makes sense to consider hiring someone to build a shed or chop the firewood when I really can do it myself. Business people continually struggle with the same dilemma. Once the decision is made to outsource complex tasks like network security, instant relief is felt and top talent is free to pour themselves into making their companies better and more profitable. Likewise, when I get home tonight and see that the firewood is stacked and ready for winter, I won’t have a tinge of regret that I hired someone to do it, but will instead enjoy taking some time for a long walk with the family before getting everyone ready for the next day.
