Outsourcing IT has long been a strategic lever for organizations seeking efficiency, scalability, and access to specialized talent. Yet despite its widespread adoption, several myths still cloud its true potential—from apprehensions over loss of control to the assumption that outsourcing is only for a certain sized business. 

In this blog article, we’ll address the most common myths, clarify the reality, and demonstrate how outsourcing can fuel long-term, sustainable growth. 

Myth 1: IT Outsourcing Is Dead 

The idea that IT outsourcing is dead couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, IT outsourcing is experiencing a resurgence.  The accelerating pace of digital transformation and the continued shortage of skilled IT talent in Canada has made outsourcing more vital than ever.  

Moreover, IT outsourcing has evolved. It’s no longer about handing off entire departments, it’s about co-management. Businesses now partner with external providers to augment internal teams, share responsibilities, and accelerate digital initiatives.  

In short, IT outsourcing isn’t dead - it’s thriving and evolving.  

Myth #2: Outsourcing Is Only for Large Corporations 

While it's true that global enterprises have long relied on outsourcing to manage complex IT infrastructures, this strategy is no longer exclusive to them. 

Small and mid-sized businesses are increasingly turning to IT outsourcing to gain access to specialized skills, advanced cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and 24/7 technical support—without the high costs of building an in-house IT department. Outsourcing levels the playing field and can be the competitive advantage for any business looking to innovate, grow, and thrive in the digital age. 

Myth #3: Outsourcing Is Only for Small Businesses  

Many believe that IT outsourcing is just a stopgap for small businesses lacking internal resources. But in reality, large enterprises are increasingly embracing a co-managed IT model—a strategic partnership where internal IT teams collaborate with external providers to maximize efficiency, innovation, and resilience. 

In a co-managed IT environment, outsourcing isn’t about replacing internal staff, it’s about augmenting capabilities. Businesses benefit by: 

• Sharing responsibilities between in-house teams and external experts. 

• Scaling support and services during peak periods or special projects. 

• Accessing specialized skills (e.g., cybersecurity, cloud architecture) without long-term hiring. 

• Accelerating digital transformation while maintaining internal oversight.

This hybrid approach allows large organizations to stay agile and focused on strategic goals, while trusted partners handle day-to-day operations, infrastructure management, or advanced technical challenges. 

Myth 4: SaaS Will Replace IT Services 

SaaS isn’t replacing IT outsourcing—it’s complementing it. 

While SaaS tools offer ready-made solutions, they don’t handle integration, customization, security, or strategic planning. That’s where IT outsourcing comes in. Outsourced IT teams ensure SaaS platforms work together, stay secure, and align with business goals. 

As well, businesses still need network management, cybersecurity, compliance, and user support. These are core IT functions that SaaS doesn’t cover—and they’re often best handled by a co-managed or fully outsourced IT team. 

Myth 5: Outsourcing Is Only About Cost Savings 

While reducing costs is a benefit, IT outsourcing is about much more than saving money. 

Today, businesses outsource IT to: 

• Access specialized expertise not available in-house 

• Accelerate digital transformation and innovation 

• Enhance cybersecurity and compliance 

• Scale operations quickly and flexibly 

• Free up internal teams to focus on strategic initiatives 

It’s about gaining a competitive edge, improving performance, and staying agile in a fast-changing tech landscape. 

Myth 6: Outsourcing Means Losing Control 

One of the most common misconceptions about IT outsourcing is that handing over responsibilities to an external provider means giving up control. In reality, modern outsourcing is built on collaboration, transparency, and shared governance. 

Outsourcing partners work alongside internal teams, following clearly defined roles, service-level agreements (SLAs), and performance metrics.  

When managed properly, outsourcing can actually enhance control by providing better visibility into performance metrics and service levels, better documentation, proactive monitoring, and access to specialized expertise. The relationship should be a partnership—not a handoff. 

Myth 7: Outsourcing Is Risky 

All business decisions carry some level of risk, but outsourcing—when done right—can actually reduce risk. By partnering with an experienced MSP, like Present, organizations can reduce operational vulnerabilities, ensure business continuity, and stay ahead of technological changes. 

Moreover, outsourcing introduces greater transparency and accountability. With clearly defined roles, performance metrics, and proactive monitoring, businesses gain better  

visibility and control over their IT environment.  

Final Verdict: Why the Smartest IT Leaders Are Embracing Outsourcing 

Outdated myths have long clouded the true value of IT outsourcing.  In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, outsourcing is no longer just a cost-cutting tactic or a solution for resource-strapped businesses—it’s a strategic enabler of growth, innovation, and resilience. 

The smartest IT leaders treat outsourcing as a collaborative partnership—one that enhances internal capabilities and aligns with long-term goals. 

At Present, we don’t just manage IT—we partner with you to complement your internal capabilities and align with your long-term business objectives, helping you build a more resilient, innovative, and scalable IT environment. Whether you need co-managed support, stronger cybersecurity, or help scaling operations, we’re here to turn IT challenges into opportunities. 

👉 Contact us today to discover how our tailored IT outsourcing solutions can support your business goals.