Why You Want to Work With a Managed Services Provider?
We get it, at first the thought of outsourcing a section of your business is probably uncomfortable, maybe even overwhelming. To get you a bit more comfortable with working with a managed IT services provider, we’ve compiled a list of things you should look for in a potential MSP.
Services Contract
This is one item that you’ll want to find out earlier on in the process, it’s the best way to protect you and your business from any unforeseen expenses later on in the partnership. The goal here being not to be surprised with any unknown costs at the end of the month.
Also, if you have a clear idea of what your business needs are, it’ll save you quite a bit of time as managed services providers can differ on how they provide services. Good news though, the MSP should be able to assist you with this process.
Increased Business Growth ::
All businesses are focused on growth, even further, driving new and sustained revenue growth. When selecting a managed services provider, you’ll want to choose an MSP that’ll assist with your growth plans. As your business experiences growth, you’ll naturally add more staff, so you’ll want an MSP that’ll make it easy and affordable to add new workstations, employee accounts and/or locations.
Better Technology ::
One thing is certain, technology will continue to change and evolve. You need a managed services provider that’s able to adapt to both growth and change. This means the MSP has a plan to keep your business current with technology, based on your budget and needs.
Better Help Desk ::
Help desks are one of the most popular managed services out there today. It’s important to understand though that all help desks are not created equal. One critical, and easily identifiable, difference is where the help desk is located. Is the help desk U.S.-based or in a geographic area prone to natural disaster?
Additionally, it’s important to know what the operating hours are for the help desk. You should have a 24/7 help desk service because technology never sleeps, and neither does commerce. If your entire email network goes down on Christmas day, you’re going to need to call the help desk, and if no one is there because you didn’t invest in a 24/7 system, you’re going to regret it.
Better Communication ::
We recommend that you make your communication expectations clear to the managed services provider from the beginning. Let them know that you expect to be included in certain events or items related to your company’s IT. Good MSPs want you to be involved and will have set procedures on how they communicate to keep you in the loop.
