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How Co-Managed IT Supports Manufacturing Growth & Security

Co-Managed IT team

Manufacturing runs on technology. From ERP systems and cloud platforms to IoT sensors and automated machinery, modern production depends on fast, reliable IT. But many manufacturers weren’t built with IT at the center, and now, that gap is showing. When internal teams are stretched thin, even small tech issues can bring production to a halt.

Downtime, cyber threats, and compliance gaps are growing risks. Fully outsourcing IT might sound like a fix, but it often leads to loss of control and misaligned priorities. That’s why more manufacturers are turning to co-managed IT, a support model that strengthens in-house teams instead of replacing them.

In this article, we’ll show how co-managed IT helps manufacturers prevent outages, protect critical systems, and grow without overloading internal staff. Whether you’re upgrading your infrastructure or expanding operations, this model keeps production running and your team focused on what matters most.

Key Takeaways

  • Co-managed IT services strengthen manufacturing infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, and support internal IT teams.
  • Proactive IT maintenance and real-time monitoring help reduce costly downtime.
  • Outsourcing IT functions improves cost efficiency and ensures compliance with industry regulations.
  • Scalable IT solutions support business growth, automation, and digital transformation.

Why Manufacturers Need Co-Managed IT Services in 2025

Technology is no longer just a back-office function in manufacturing—it’s the backbone of production efficiency, supply chain management, and product innovation. From ERP systems and cloud solutions to industrial IoT (IIoT) and AI-driven automation, manufacturers depend on IT to stay competitive. 

For many manufacturers, hiring and retaining skilled IT professionals is a growing challenge. The global cybersecurity workforce gap has reached 4.8 million, making it difficult to fill critical roles. 

Meanwhile, IT teams are stretched thin, trying to balance network security, cloud infrastructure, and system upgrades while keeping production running smoothly. 

This is where co-managed IT services step in. They offer expertise and strategic support to help manufacturers stay ahead of technology demands. 

How Co-Managed IT Strengthens Manufacturing Infrastructure

A strong IT infrastructure is essential for modern manufacturing, supporting everything from production lines to supply chain logistics. Yet, many in-house IT teams find themselves struggling to maintain core systems while handling unexpected technical issues, security threats, and software updates.

Co-managed IT services help bridge this gap by offering specialized expertise and additional support. 

The diagram below highlights the shared responsibility model between an in-house IT team and a co-managed IT partner, illustrating how tasks are distributed for greater efficiency and security.

Visual diagram showing collaboration between internal IT and co-managed IT partner responsibilities
Diagram: How Co-Managed IT Supports and Extends Internal IT Teams

Instead of expecting a small internal team to handle everything from network security to cloud management, manufacturers can rely on a strategic IT partner to manage critical areas such as system monitoring, data protection, and infrastructure upgrades. 

This lets internal staff focus on important tasks, reducing stress and boosting efficiency. By collaborating with an IT partner, manufacturers can also access the latest technologies without having to hire new staff or invest in costly training programs. 

Whether it’s transitioning to cloud-based ERP systems or implementing secure remote access for factory automation, co-managed IT ensures businesses stay technologically competitive without overwhelming their internal workforce.

Minimize Manufacturing Downtime With Proactive IT Support

Manufacturing disruptions can cost up to $260,000 per hour when unplanned downtime strikes. 

Estimated Downtime Cost per Hour in Manufacturing
Co-Managed IT Can Reduce Downtime Costs by Up to 70% in Manufacturing Environments

Many downtime incidents stem from outdated IT infrastructure, unpatched vulnerabilities, or system failures that could have been avoided with proactive maintenance. 

Co-managed IT services help prevent downtime through:

  • Real-time monitoring to detect and resolve issues before they escalate.
  • Automated system updates to ensure security patches and upgrades are applied promptly.
  • Scheduled hardware maintenance to minimize unexpected failures and production interruptions.

Rapid-response IT support ensures that any technical issues, whether it’s a network failure or an ERP system malfunction, are resolved quickly, minimizing disruptions on the factory floor.

Manufacturing Cybersecurity: How Co-Managed IT Reduces Risk

Manufacturers are prime targets for cyberattacks due to their intellectual property, supply chain data, and interconnected systems. A single cybersecurity breach, such as the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack, can disrupt operations and cause massive financial losses.

A co-managed IT provider strengthens security through:

  • Zero-trust security models to limit access to critical systems.
  • Advanced threat detection to identify and neutralize cyber threats.
  • Employee security training to prevent phishing attacks and credential breaches.

It’s worth noting that one of the biggest vulnerabilities in manufacturing cybersecurity is human error. 

Phishing attacks, weak passwords, and unpatched software can create entry points for hackers. With a co-managed IT approach, manufacturers receive ongoing cybersecurity training for employees, ensuring that staff recognize threats and follow best practices.

By working with an IT partner, manufacturers can safeguard their intellectual property, protect customer data, and prevent operational disruptions caused by cyber incidents.

Scaling IT Infrastructure for Manufacturing Growth

As manufacturers expand, their IT infrastructure must scale to support new production facilities, automation tools, and cloud-based solutions. However, hiring and training additional IT staff is time-consuming and costly.

With co-managed IT, businesses gain:

  • Flexible IT resources that scale with business needs.
  • Seamless cloud migrations for ERP and other essential applications.
  • IoT integration to optimize smart manufacturing and predictive maintenance.

With 80% of manufacturers investing in digital transformation, partnering with IT experts ensures smooth execution of AI-driven automation, supply chain analytics, and other technology initiatives.

Faster IT Support for Production Environments

In a manufacturing setting, IT disruptions don’t just affect office employees—they can halt production, delay shipments, and impact overall quality control. Slow IT response times lead to bottlenecks that can cost businesses thousands of dollars per hour.

A co-managed IT model provides around-the-clock support, ensuring that IT issues are addressed immediately. Whether it’s a network outage, software glitch, or security concern, having a dedicated IT partner means faster resolution times and minimal downtime. Co-managed IT services provide:

  • 24/7 help desk support for immediate issue resolution.
  • Faster response times to prevent operational bottlenecks.
  • Expert troubleshooting for network failures, software bugs, and cybersecurity concerns.

Reducing IT Costs in Manufacturing Through Co-Management

Running a full-scale, in-house IT department is expensive. Hiring skilled IT professionals, maintaining hardware, and investing in cybersecurity solutions can quickly add up. 

For many manufacturers, co-managed IT presents a cost-effective alternative, allowing them to outsource key functions while maintaining control over their IT strategy.

Instead of paying for full-time IT staff, manufacturers can scale IT services as needed, paying only for the support and expertise required. This flexible pricing model helps businesses optimize their IT budgets while maintaining high-quality security, monitoring, and infrastructure support.

Meeting Compliance Standards in Manufacturing with IT Partners

Manufacturers must comply with strict industry regulations, especially those handling sensitive customer data, government contracts, or supply chain information. Regulations such as NIST 800-171, ITAR, and ISO 27001 require strict security measures to protect data integrity.

Co-managed IT providers guide manufacturers through compliance requirements by implementing secure access controls, conducting regular security audits, and managing documentation for regulatory reporting. 

Ensuring compliance not only prevents costly fines and legal consequences but also builds trust with partners and customers.

For manufacturers seeking new business opportunities, achieving industry certifications can be a competitive advantage. Co-managed IT services streamline this process by assisting with documentation, cybersecurity best practices, and technology alignment.

Using Co-Managed IT to Accelerate Industry 4.0 Adoption

Beyond daily IT management, manufacturers must continuously innovate to stay competitive. Cloud computing, AI-driven analytics, and IoT solutions are transforming the industry, but adopting these technologies requires careful planning.

A co-managed IT partner provides consulting services that help manufacturers align technology investments with business goals. 

Whether it’s implementing AI-powered automation, integrating smart manufacturing solutions, or modernizing legacy IT systems, an experienced IT provider ensures a seamless transition with minimal disruption.

How Can Keystone Technology Consultants Help You?

Manufacturing companies cannot afford to fall behind in cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, or digital transformation. A co-managed IT approach offers the scalability, security, and expertise needed to navigate today’s technology-driven landscape.

At Keystone Technology Consultants, we help manufacturers optimize IT operations, reduce downtime, and implement cutting-edge solutions. 

Contact us today to learn how our co-managed IT services can support your business growth and security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between managed and co-managed IT?  

Managed IT fully outsources all IT responsibilities. Co-managed IT supports your in-house team by taking over specific functions like cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, or help desk services.

Is co-managed IT only for large manufacturers?

Not at all. Mid-sized manufacturers benefit the most by gaining access to advanced IT capabilities without expanding their headcount.

How much does co-managed IT cost?

It varies based on service scope, but typically costs less than building a full internal IT team while delivering 24/7 support and strategic expertise.

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