There's a new buzzword in the world of IT maintenance, and it's "Managed Services." Hailed as the newest, cheapest way to get computer maintenance, Managed Services providers offer one flat rate, unlimited service, and remote access to take care of issues from afar. It's supposed to be a great deal and great service.

Well, you can't believe all of the hype, especially if you're a Mac user. If you've gotten a call from a "Managed Services Provider," they'll tell you that you can get all of your IT needs taken care of for a fraction of the price. But that low cost comes with a price of its own: locking down your network.

Many Managed Services Providers (MSPs) make their money by forcing you to work within a very limited network. You can't install new devices, software, or utilities. Do you want FTP software? Sorry, you'll have to call your MSP and pay them to give you the password. If you have severe problems, they press a button and completely wipe your system and install a new one. Hardly elegant solutions. For many Mac users, it's simply an unacceptable way of working.

Tech Superpowers recently underwent an internal "green audit," where we reviewed what more we could be doing to help reduce our impact on the environment. The good news? Every bit we've done also has reduced our operational costs. The bad news? There's more that we can do.

What if we could offer you an alternative to the traditional model of onsite consulting - one that was cheaper, faster, and greener? You'd probably perk up and pay attention.