Comparison
Managed IT vs in-house IT: which to choose?
For most Quebec SMEs, managed IT offers broader expertise and 24/7 coverage at a predictable cost, whereas a single in-house IT employee costs more in salary and benefits, is limited during vacations or illness, and covers only one area of expertise.
| Criterion | Managed IT (MSP) | In-house IT employee |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Predictable monthly fee | Salary + benefits ($60k+/yr) |
| Coverage | 24/7, full team | Office hours, one person |
| Expertise | Multidisciplinary | Limited to one profile |
| Continuity | No interruption | Vacation, illness, departure |
Our recommendation
Managed IT suits most SMEs; an in-house hire makes sense mainly for large organizations with constant, specific IT needs. A hybrid approach (in-house + MSP) is also possible.
Frequently asked questions
Can you combine both?
Yes, many organizations keep an internal IT lead supported by an MSP like ITGS for monitoring and specialized expertise.