Why Do You Need A Managed IT Services Provider?
Today, one investment that many businesses are seriously considering is a Managed Services Provider (MSPs). Blame it on the urge to keep up with the rapid rise in technology or the pressure of high expectations from senior management teams, hiring an MSP seems to be the norm of the day.
This blog has compiled a comprehensive list of criteria to consider when seeking a highly proficient Managed Service Provider.
There are many reasons to outsource your IT requirements to a company offering managed IT services. Essentially, you are investing in a partner who supports your organizational growth by handling several organizational processes on your behalf. Having an outsourcing provider by your side is a huge blessing for your IT teams.
By entrusting the monitoring and management of IT infrastructure and end-user systems to providers, IT teams can considerably relieve the pressure and concentrate on pursuing their core business objectives.
Organizations worldwide are fast recognizing the importance of collaborating with MSPs. The proof is clear and undeniable. MarketsandMarkets forecasts that the global MSP market will grow at a CAGR of 7.9% and will be valued at $354.8 billion by 2026. This is an incredible jump from the $242.9 billion value in 2021.
Hiring a Managed Service Provider is an investment, which, like any other organizational investment, must provide good ROI. You also need a partner who will adapt and expand as your organization grows. Finding a provider who brings the best of both worlds is the biggest challenge.
Before choosing a service provider, it is crucial to consider factors beyond the basic services they offer and their prices, even if multiple providers seem similar in these aspects.
Let’s simplify this task for you with our list of criteria to choose a good MSP.
10 Factors to Look For in Your Managed IT Service Provider
1. Does your MSP have the necessary industry knowledge and skills?
One of the basic criteria is to analyze if your managed service provider has the industry insight, technical expertise, and experience to handle your IT requirements. Look for certifications and other evidence for their qualifications, core competencies, and prior experience with other organizations. You should also analyze the skills and expertise of their employees.
2. Does their quotation fit your budget?
If you come across an MSP exclusively focused on competing based on price, take a moment to ponder the reasons behind this approach. As a precaution, it is wise to chart your specifications and draft a budget before comparing prices. This approach will help you zero in on a service provider who best fits your financial constraints.
3. What about their Service Level Agreements (SLAs)?
It’s crucial to explore the specifics of service agreements when dealing with MSPs, as many of them provide similar services. Take time to read their Service Level Agreements to garner information about:
- Problem resolution times
- Support response times
- Escalation paths
Since this could be a long-term collaboration, ensure your expectations align with your provider’s offerings to avoid hitting a snag as you work alongside their team.
4. Will your MSP scale with your business?
Your MSP should prioritize your biggest organizational goal- to grow and expand. In addition to being in line with your growth and development objectives, they must possess the necessary resources to effectively support your business as it scales. Their scalability is essential to help you incorporate essentials as and when needed.
5. How well do they understand your business?
An MSP who has previously catered well to clients within your industry is probably the ideal choice because they can effortlessly understand your business requirements and operations. By shortlisting MSPs based on their client base, you can:
- Minimize onboarding time
- Decide the required applications and tools
- List down the industry’s best practices
Adopting this method allows you to choose the perfect MSP and initiate the process swiftly.
6. How efficient are their turnaround times?
In today’s fast-paced business, there is no room for slow and inefficient MSPs. So, while you are trying to shortlist those based on turnaround times, look for their efficiency in providing error-free, fully compliant, and comprehensive services. Your investment is only worth it if your managed IT service provider is prompt, efficient, and accurate.
7. Do they possess advanced automation technology?
Does your service provider use proprietary advanced software created exclusively for clients, or do they rely on a third-party, white-labeled technology that caters for themselves rather than clients? In this case, the former is better than the latter because MSPs using proprietary software tend to offer a markedly superior experience. You should also check if:
- The software has good integration capabilities
- Your technology provider combines human analysis and judgment
8. How transparent is the pricing?
There’s one thing you ought to analyze beyond the mere numbers of the price tag put forth by your service provider: Do they offer value, or are they focused solely on profitability? Another aspect is determining if you are paying only for the services or being billed for bundled services, which may be an unnecessary expense. Although bundled services may seem like a great deal, you may pay more than intended for services you hardly require. So, be extra careful with pricing transparency.
9. What are their quality assurance processes?
By default, all MSPs claim to follow the highest quality standards. But how will you know if they have the necessary processes? Rather than relying on verbal promises, you should check for:
Proven strategies to eliminate errors and inconsistencies
Specific methodologies implemented to deliver consistent quality
10. Do they promise a holistic approach?
Does your MSP value customer service, a critical parameter to assess their efficiency? Do they understand the significance of aligning people, technology, and processes? Choose an MSP who empowers your team by enhancing your processes and stands with your goals.
Now that you know what to look for in a service provider, here are quick tips to choose the best from your shortlisted providers.
4 Tips to Identify & Pick the Best MSP
- Make an effort to research thoroughly about your shortlisted MSPs. This will help you weed out providers without industry accreditation.
- Engage in a thorough discovery process to effectively communicate your expectations to potential providers while gaining insight into their service delivery approach.
- Make a detailed analysis of every aspect of your collaboration with an MSP. Do not leave any stone unturned.
- Ensure that all key stakeholders, including internal advocates, process owners, and end users, actively participate in the provider selection process.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right MSP may seem daunting, but you can simplify it by shortlisting the importance criteria. It’s best not to make any hasty decisions. Take your time to pick the right MSP who delivers long-term value.
If you are looking for managed IT services in Tempe, look no further than CMIT Solutions. We offer an array of services designed exclusively for your IT landscape. Call our team to know more.
