As an IT manager, choosing the right managed service provider (MSP) for your business is crucial. MSPs can help you reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve your overall IT performance. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start.
In this blog, we'll take a closer look at the key factors you should consider when choosing an MSP, so you can make the best decision for your business.
Choosing the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) can be a challenging task. One of the critical first steps in the selection process is to determine your business's specific needs. Every business has unique IT requirements, and it's essential to understand them before engaging with an MSP. This will help you choose an MSP that is well-suited to meet your needs.
Section 1: Determine Your Needs
The first step in choosing an MSP is to determine your business's specific needs. Ask yourself what IT services you currently use, and which ones you need help with. This will help you narrow down your search to MSPs that specialise in the services you require.
Section 2: Check for Experience and Expertise
When evaluating MSPs, it's important to consider their experience and expertise. Look for providers who have a proven track record of delivering high-quality services and who have experience working with businesses similar to yours. Additionally, consider their certifications and partnerships with industry leaders. Here are some additional points to keep in mind:
1. Look for MSPs that specialise in your industry: MSPs that have experience working with businesses similar to yours are more likely to understand your specific needs and challenges.
2. Check their credentials: MSPs that have certifications and partnerships with industry leaders have demonstrated a commitment to excellence and staying up-to-date with the latest technology and industry standards.
3. Evaluate their service level agreements (SLAs): A comprehensive SLA will ensure that the MSP is held accountable for delivering the level of service you need.
4. Ask for references: Talking to current and past clients can give you insight into the MSP's performance, responsiveness, and customer service.
5. Consider their scalability: As your business grows, your IT needs will evolve. Look for an MSP that can scale their services to meet your changing needs.
By considering these factors, you can find an MSP that has the experience, expertise, and capabilities to meet your business's unique IT needs.
Section 3: Consider Their Availability and Support
One of the biggest benefits of working with an MSP is their ability to provide around-the-clock support. Make sure the MSP you choose offers the level of support you need and has a robust support infrastructure in place.
Section 4: Evaluate Their Security Measures
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is more important than ever. When choosing an MSP, it's essential to evaluate their security measures and ensure they have a strong cybersecurity strategy in place. Look for MSPs that have experience with security compliance standards and protocols.
Section 5: Look for Flexible Contract Terms
MSP contracts can vary significantly in terms of length, scope, and pricing. Look for MSPs that offer flexible contract terms that can be tailored to your business's specific needs. This will give you the ability to scale your services up or down as your business evolves.
Conclusion
Choosing the right MSP can have a significant impact on your business's IT performance and overall success. By considering the factors we've outlined in this guide, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision and find an MSP that can help take your business to the next level.
Download our free eBook ‘How to drive value from a Managed Service Provider’ to discover more. Plus, watch our on-demand webinars from the IT Pioneer Summit for content including how MSPs can help you in the economic downturn, their role in ESG and overcoming the tech skills shortage.
Why Advanced?
In today’s world it’s becoming more and more difficult to keep up with the ever changing technology landscape. Companies feel the burden of the everyday, yet want to continue to take their next step and drive innovation.
At Advanced we focus on people, giving you access to subject experts and enabling you to deliver your technology objectives faster. Our team are always available to advise, unafraid of complexity, and constantly focused on driving your business forwards.
No matter what your objectives are, together we make IT work.
Through our range of security, modern workplace, cloud, app modernisation and managed services, you can lean on our unique expertise to create an empowering roadmap, unlocking the capacity and flexibility to take your business into a stronger future.
“We are moving forward to meet growing and more complex demands with a provider that can both scale to meet those needs and provide the level of professionalism needed within this marketplace.” Rob Bing, IT Service Manager - St Andrew’s Healthcare
