Your Business and the Power of Managed Service

by Jon Lober | NOC Technology

How an MSP saves you time, money— and headaches.

As a small business owner, you understand that managing a business requires managing a lot of moving parts.


One of those moving parts is technology, and just like any other aspect of running a business, it can be a real headache to keep up with. Enter the Managed Service Provider—or MSP for short. MSPs are like having an IT department available on call without the expense or management aspects of hiring your own staff.


Are you sold already?

Talk to one of our experts about how NOC can support your business with better IT.


But what is an MSP, and how can it help your business? Let's dive in!


An MSP is a third-party service provider that offers IT support to businesses. When you contract an MSP, their technicians stand at the ready to tackle any and all tech-related issues that may arise, threatening to derail your business operations.


A managed service provider can offer a wide range of services, from monitoring your network for potential threats to fixing problems as soon as they arise. This is especially great for small to mid-size businesses and nonprofits who may not have the budget to hire an entire IT department with varied backgrounds and experiences. With an MSP, you don't have to worry about hiring a full-time IT team or even a part-time consultant—they’ve got you covered whether you’re talking VoIP phone systems or cybersecurity. You’ll gain access to an
entire team of experts without having to pay benefits, vacation time, and other expenses that come with a full-time employee.


Looking to support your overworked IT staff?

Learn how Co-managed IT might be right for you.


A good MSP should also help you keep up with the latest technology. They can help you upgrade your software, install the latest security measures, and even provide training for your employees on staying cybersecure (and how to use new technologies). This not only helps keep your business running smoothly but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your sensitive data is secure.


Another advantage of working with an MSP is that they offer around-the-clock support. This is especially important for businesses that operate outside of normal business hours or for those that rely on their technology to generate revenue.


Here at NOC Technology, we offer 24/7 monitoring and management. What this looks like in the real world is that our staff often know about IT problems before you do. We love nothing better than to find and resolve an issue, then report it to a client only to find they were not yet aware there was a problem.


So there you have it! An MSP is an outsourced IT department that can save you time, money, and headaches. Don't let technology problems keep you up at night - call in the experts and let them handle it. Trust us—your business (and your sanity) will thank you.

Missouri Sheltered Workshops can empower human potential through AI
By Jon Lober April 24, 2025
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Tech upgrades that will boost employee safety in sheltered workshops
By Jon Lober April 15, 2025
At NOC Technology, we've worked with Missouri sheltered workshops for over seven years, and I've witnessed firsthand how the right technological implementations can transform sheltered workshop environments. Today, I'd like to share some insights on leveraging modern technology to create safer workspaces while maintaining the dignity and privacy of all participants. The Unique Safety Challenges of Sheltered Workshops Sheltered workshops provide valuable employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, but they also present unique safety considerations. Workers may have varying levels of physical mobility, cognitive processing, and sensory perception—all of which can impact how they respond to traditional safety measures. Additionally, the production environments often involve machinery, tools, and materials that require careful monitoring and management. The Role of Smart Technology in Safety Advancements in smart technology provide real-time safety monitoring, immediate alerts for potential hazards, and improved emergency response times. Let’s explore some key technologies and their benefits in sheltered workshop environments. Personalized Alert Systems Traditional emergency alarms can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Smart alert systems can deliver personalized notifications through: Vibrating wristbands that alert workers without auditory overload Visual notification systems with customizable colors and patterns Tablet-based communication for workers who benefit from visual cues Location-specific alerts that only notify those in affected areas We recently implemented a multi-modal alert system at a workshop in central Missouri that reduced anxiety-related incidents during emergency drills by 65% . Environmental Monitoring Maintaining optimal environmental conditions is crucial for both safety and productivity: Temperature and humidity sensors that automatically adjust HVAC systems Air quality monitors that detect potentially harmful particulates Noise level monitoring to prevent sensory overload Automated ventilation systems that activate when chemical levels exceed thresholds These systems not only protect workers but also provide documented compliance with OSHA regulations. Enhanced Supervision through Smart Cameras Security cameras have evolved beyond simple surveillance. Modern systems can: Detect unusual patterns that might indicate a worker in distress Monitor restricted areas without constant staff presence Identify when machinery is being used incorrectly Alert supervisors to potential safety hazards Important note: All camera systems should be implemented with strict privacy protocols and transparent policies. Workers and guardians should be fully informed about what is being monitored and why. In many cases, audio cannot be recorded, and the camera system must be configured to meet this requirement. Wearable Safety Technology Wearable devices offer personalized safety monitoring without stigmatization: Fall detection pendants that automatically alert staff Location tracking that helps locate workers in emergency situations Biometric monitoring for workers with health conditions Proximity sensors that prevent accidental entry into hazardous areas These wearables can be designed to look like standard ID badges or watches, preserving dignity while enhancing safety. Implementation Best Practices Successfully integrating smart technology into sheltered workshops requires careful planning: Involve all stakeholders: Workers, guardians, and staff should participate in selecting and implementing new technologies. Prioritize simplicity: Choose solutions that require minimal training and maintenance. Phase in gradually: Introduce new technologies in stages to allow everyone time to adapt. Balance automation with human oversight: Technology should supplement, not replace, trained staff. Respect privacy: Collect only essential data and maintain strong security protocols.
Could your sheltered workshop benefit from grant funding for new technology?
By Jon Lober April 7, 2025
As a sheltered workshop, you play a crucial role in providing meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. However, like any organization, securing funding for technology upgrades can be a challenge. While investing in the right tools can improve efficiency, security, and overall productivity—that’s all only if you can afford the tools in the first place.
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