Single Source vs Multi-Source IT—What Should Enterprises Do?

Struggling with technology integrations, overburdened staff, data consistency, and escalating connectivity costs? A shift in IT management is in order.

When an enterprise looks to outsource, the effects of their choices reverberate far into the future. The decision to centralize IT services with one provider or diversify across multiple vendors has significant implications for an organization's efficiency, agility, and security posture. 

In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of each approach, highlight their advantages and disadvantages, and offer guidance for enterprises navigating their connectivity strategy. 

The challenges of connectivity management

Enterprises, particularly those with a global footprint, encounter challenges while managing their connectivity infrastructure. 

The need for seamless communication, data security, and regulatory compliance across multiple locations strains internal connectivity teams. Furthermore, the rapid change of pace demands adaptability and a focus on innovation. 

Enterprises partner with third-party experts to outsource areas of connectivity where in-house teams lack resources and skill sets. The question is no longer if a company will outsource but whether it will utilize a single-source or multi-source IT strategy when it does.

What is single-source IT management? 

As the name suggests, single-source IT management involves entrusting a single vendor with the responsibility of managing a wide range of services and technology assets. These may include infrastructure management, network operations, ongoing lifecycle management, and support. 

The enterprise consolidates its IT needs under one roof, creating a centralized IT governance model, regardless of geography.

Advantages of the single-sourcing strategy

The single-sourcing strategy offers several compelling advantages. By consolidating IT services with one vendor, enterprises negotiate better pricing and volume discounts, leading to cost savings. 

It also streamlines vendor management. Rather than overseeing multiple contracts, invoices, and points of contact, the enterprise has a single relationship to manage. This leads to simplified communication, improved efficiency, and fewer resources required internally to manage the vendor. 

A single-source model promotes standardization and consistency across the company, enhancing the operational structure and reducing the risk of compatibility issues.

However, the single-source model is not without its drawbacks. Over-reliance on a single vendor creates performance risks. 

If the vendor experiences service disruptions or financial difficulties, there can be severe consequences to the enterprise's operations. Additionally, vendor lock-in limits the enterprise's flexibility and bargaining power.

What is multisourcing in IT management? 

Multisourcing, on the other hand, involves distributing IT services across multiple vendors. This approach allows enterprises to leverage the specialized expertise of different providers, creating a best-in-class ecosystem.

Advantages of the multisourcing strategy

Multisourcing provides greater flexibility and agility. Enterprises select vendors based on their specific strengths and capabilities, ensuring they have access to the best solutions for their needs across multiple regions and service areas. 

By diversifying IT services across multiple providers, enterprises mitigate risk. They are less exposed to any one vendor's shortcomings should service falter. 

Multisourcing also fosters innovation. Working with multiple vendors exposes companies to new ideas and technologies, helping them stay ahead of the curve.

However, multisourcing also presents challenges. Managing multiple vendors is complex and time-consuming. Integrating different systems and solutions creates delays and headaches for the in-house team. Cost control is difficult, as enterprises must manage multiple contracts and invoices across various billing cycles.

Is single-source or multi-source better for your enterprise?

The decision between single-source and multi-source IT management is not one-size-fits-all. It hinges on various factors, including the enterprise's size, industry, geographic footprint, and risk tolerance.

Here are some questions enterprises must ask themselves during the decision-making process: 

• Does the strategy support our strategic business objectives? 
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the internal IT team?
• What are each strategy's total cost of ownership (TCO) implications?
• How does each strategy address potential risks and vulnerabilities?
• How will we define success and performance for the designated strategy?

The decision warrants a strategic conversation among company leaders about which avenue will best meet the enterprise’s goals. The chart below helps visualize the strengths and weaknesses of single-source vs. multi-source IT management. 

A thorough evaluation of these criteria allows enterprises to make informed decisions about their needs.

Conclusion—Turn to Advantage for connectivity solutions

No single "right" answer exists to the single-source vs. multi-source IT management debate. Each strategy has merits and drawbacks; the best decision depends on the enterprise's unique circumstances. 

By carefully considering the organization’s business needs, risk tolerance, and vendor capabilities, enterprises make informed decisions that empower them to navigate the complexities of the global IT landscape and achieve their strategic objectives.

A multi-vendor solution delivers the qualities essential to a thriving enterprise—flexibility, agility, local expertise, and risk mitigation—but strains internal teams. Gaining these operational assets becomes a wash when in-house staff cannot manage sourcing, implementation, invoices, renewals, etc. 

Enjoy the benefits of a multi-source vendor strategy without worrying about the operational, financial, and administrative hurdles. 

With a global connectivity managed service provider (MSP)  like Advantage, enterprises leverage their technology as a strategic asset that drives innovation, efficiency, and growth. Find out what this first-of-its-kind partnership can bring to your bottom line. 

Recommended articles (Helpful links) 

• Why Global IT Management is Crucial for Enterprises
• Why IT Agnosticism is Important for Multi-Location Enterprises
• Why is Consolidating Enterprise IT MSPs More Advantageous? 
• How to Cut Connectivity Expense Costs Without Losing Quality