What is a help desk called that needs to cover its expenses and possibly earn a profit through support service fees?

A help desk that needs to cover its expenses and potentially earn a profit through support service fees is referred to as a profit center. This concept is critical in business operations, where a profit center generates revenue and is responsible for its own financial performance. By charging fees for the support services it provides, the help desk operates with the goal of not just covering costs but also contributing positively to the overall profitability of the organization.

In contrast, other types of support units, such as service desks and support desks, typically focus on providing assistance and customer service without a direct emphasis on generating profit. A cost center is primarily responsible for maintaining its budget and controlling expenses without revenue generation, which differs fundamentally from the role of a profit center. The main distinction lies in the profit center's proactive approach to income generation, making it self-sufficient and financially accountable while also ensuring service quality.