Co-managed IT strategy: a smart approach for UK NGOs

In today’s digital-first world, NGOs rely on technology to manage operations, engage supporters and deliver services.

However, many non-profits face a common challenge: limited internal IT resources. Hiring a full in-house IT team can be costly, while relying solely on external providers may leave organisations disconnected from day-to-day technology needs. This is where a co-managed IT strategy can make a significant difference.

What is co-managed IT?

Co-managed IT is a collaborative approach that combines an NGO’s existing IT resources with external IT expertise. Rather than outsourcing all technology management, organisations retain some  in-house staff while partnering with a managed service provider (MSP) for more general day-to-day end user support.

This hybrid model frees up in-house staff from the reactive, unpredictable ‘noise’ of IT support, allowing them instead to focus on delivering the organisation’s IT strategy. This allows NGOs to scale IT capabilities according to need, without the management overhead and skills and capabilities limitations of a running everything in-house. 

Why NGOs benefit from co-managed IT

1. Cost-effective expertise
   For many NGOs, budgets are tight and resources scarce. Co-managed IT allows organisations to access high-level IT skills on demand while avoiding the expense of hiring full-time specialists. This model ensures that an NGO’s technology infrastructure is robust, secure and aligned with strategic goals – all while staying within budget.
2. Enhanced cybersecurity and governance
   Cyber threats are a growing concern for charities, particularly those handling donor information or sensitive client data. Co-managed IT providers bring up-to-date cybersecurity expertise, implementing best practices and monitoring systems, and ensure compliance with UK data protection regulations, including GDPR. This reduces risk and gives NGOs peace of mind.
3. Flexibility and scalability
   NGOs often conduct project-based initiatives and experience fluctuating workloads. Co-managed IT offers flexibility, allowing organisations to scale support up or down based on demand. Whether it’s a temporary increase in support during a fundraising campaign or ongoing infrastructure upgrades, co-managed IT can adapt to evolving needs.
4. Strategic IT planning
   Beyond day-to-day support, co-managed IT services help NGOs align technology with long-term organisational goals. Providers can assist with IT roadmaps, system integrations and digital transformation initiatives, ensuring that technology investments deliver maximum impact.
5. Focus on mission, not maintenance
   With routine IT tasks managed collaboratively, internal teams can focus on core mission activities. Staff can dedicate more time to programme delivery, fundraising and community engagement, while technical experts can handle system optimisation, troubleshooting and upgrades.

Implementing co-managed IT in the NGO sector

Successful co-managed IT partnerships begin with a clear understanding of an NGO’s needs. The first step is to assess internal capabilities, identify resource and skill bottlenecks and determine which functions are best supported externally. Look for MSPs with experience in the non-profit sector, strong security practices and a collaborative approach that complements the internal IT team rather than replacing it.

Introducing Smartdesc, BOND’s IT partner

Smartdesc is an award winning IT provider that solely focuses on nonprofits and already works with some Bond’s members. It specialises in providing co-managed IT solutions for charities, NGOs and non-profits, tailored to the unique needs of each organisation. Staff have wide-ranging expertise, including in IT support, cybersecurity, infrastructure management, Microsoft 365, Azure, strategic IT planning, and device management. The Smartdesc team will work alongside an NGO’s internal staff to strengthen technology capabilities and support its mission.

Smartdesc understands the pressures of running a nonprofit and know how to deliver cost-effective, scalable IT solutions that provide peace of mind. With Smartdesc as an NGO’s technology partner, the organisation doesn’t just get IT support , it gets  a trusted advisor who will ensure your technology works as hard as you do.

The perfect balance

For NGOs, co-managed IT solutions offer the perfect balance between internal control and external expertise. They are cost-effective, scalable and provides access to specialist knowledge that can enhance  IT operations and efficiency. By embracing this hybrid IT model, charities can maximise the impact of technology while keeping their focus firmly on the mission.

Get in touch to discuss how co-managed IT can help your charity thrive. With our expertise, guidance and hands-on support, your organisation can focus on what matters most: making a difference.