Maximizing ROI Through SQL Server Management Outsourcing
Managing SQL Server infrastructure in-house can present more challenges than many companies anticipate. Between constant security threats, performance monitoring, and ensuring high availability, the demands on a database administrator (DBA) are extensive. For many companies, especially those without a large IT staff, these needs can strain resources and impact profitability. Outsourcing SQL Server management offers a strategic solution that not only frees up valuable internal resources but also enhances return on investment in significant ways.
Five reasons you may want to outsource
1. You want to save time while also saving money.
Keeping SQL Server infrastructure healthy, secure, and reliable requires expertise and continuous attention. Hiring and retaining experienced DBAs in-house is both costly and challenging, given today’s IT talent shortage. By outsourcing SQL Server management to a team of specialists, companies can access highly trained, experienced professionals without the high salary costs, benefits, and training expenses. DBA Team as a Service companies handle all aspects of SQL Server maintenance, from tuning queries to implementing patches, allowing businesses to sidestep the steep learning curve and hidden costs of in-house management.
Outsourcing also helps reduce the likelihood and expenses associated with downtime, as the DBA Team as a Service company regularly reviews and proactively monitors the SQL servers to identify potential issues early. If a disruptive event happens, they are typically quick to respond.
Instead of relying on an overworked Accidental DBA to find time for SQL Server administrative tasks, companies benefit from proactive administration. This results in reduced downtime, faster resolution of issues, and ultimately, lower operating costs.
2. You want to stay focused on your core business goals.
Outsourcing SQL Server management means your IT staff can concentrate on core business initiatives rather than routine maintenance, preventative care, and troubleshooting/Googling when something goes wrong. Internal teams can devote their efforts to innovation, like developing new applications or improving customer experience, without being distracted by database issues or availability concerns.
Furthermore, outsourcing shifts many day-to-day management burdens from the IT team to the DBA Team as a Service. This allows companies to deploy internal talent toward projects that add value or require deep institutional knowledge. For example, developers are freed up to spend their time on data analytics, strategic planning, or application development instead of patching servers and monitoring logs.
3. You want to improve security and compliance.
Data breaches and cyberattacks are costly, both financially and in terms of reputation. SQL Server infrastructure is often a prime target for attackers, and securing the perimeter isn’t enough.
When outsourcing, you receive enhanced security as a part of the service. The DBA Team as a Service continually monitors for suspicious activity, implements access controls, and can rapidly address vulnerabilities to protect your data.
For companies in regulated industries, such as healthcare or finance, DBA Teams as Service can help ensure that SQL Servers remain compliant with industry standards. Some, like The SERO Group, can provide regular Center for Internet Security (CIS) Benchmark Assessments to compare your data infrastructure to industry best practices.
4. You’d benefit from the most cutting-edge technologies.
Keeping SQL Server infrastructure current and efficient can be daunting. DBA Teams as a Service bring a breadth of experience, ensuring your SQL Server environment leverages best practices. Their DBAs have seen a lot of environments and are able to offer insights and optimizations that internal teams might not have time to explore.
DBA Teams as a Service keep your systems patched, updated, and provide additional insights. For example, when it’s time to upgrade SQL Server, a DBA Team as a Service will have a comprehensive project plan to handle everything from running a Data Migration Assistant (DMA) assessment to full implementation, all while minimizing disruption and drag on your team.
5. You want reliable support without the cost of a full-time team.
Some companies mistakenly believe that the only way to get expert care for their SQL Servers is to invest in a full-time DBA. If they don’t have enough work to keep a dedicated DBA busy, they make do with an Accidental DBA—someone who will take care of the SQL Server environment in their spare time. However, even if they’re able to hire a full-time DBA, there’s risk in dependency on a single person; if they leave, so does their expertise.
When you outsource to a DBA Team as a Service, like The SERO Group, you get access to a team of DBAs, including primary, secondary, and tertiary support, reducing reliance on any one individual. This service also eliminates the need to recruit, onboard, train, and retain a DBA, saving you time and resources.
Final thoughts
Outsourcing SQL Server management is more than just a cost-cutting measure; it’s a strategic investment in operational efficiency, security, and business growth. By partnering with a DBA Team as a Service, companies can optimize SQL Server performance, enhance security, ensure compliance, and empower internal teams to focus on strategic initiatives.
Want to work with us?
Want to learn how outsourcing SQL Server management could benefit your business? Schedule a no-obligation discovery call with us to explore how we can support your goals and free up your team’s time for high-impact projects.