A Managed Service Provider accommodates your company’s IT demands, working by a pricing model that best suits both parties. Today, Managed Service Providers are ubiquitous—they are integral extensions of large multinationals who need specialist IT support (for example, managed security providers) as well as start-ups who are rapidly scaling and need pocket-friendly IT solutions (for example, managed cloud service providers).
It is strategically important to select the right Managed Service Provider for your business. Here are 5 things to consider before you sign up for a Managed Service Provider:
1. 24×7 support and teaming: No doubt, value-based service delivery should underscore the relationship with your Managed Service Provider. But, it is equally important for the Managed Service Provider to share your work-culture, values and expectations. This includes the ability to work as flexible extensions of your IT team and deliver A-grade support experience round the clock.
2. Prior experience: Every business has unique needs. Your Managed Service Provider should have experience working in your industry and know all the dynamics and nuances involved. They should be comfortable working with businesses your size and taking a proactive approach to your IT needs.
3. Excellence in technology: The terms of engagement with your Managed Service Provider should be clearly defined. Step 1 would be to understand the employees assigned to you and their level of technical expertise. Project management aspects, like Service-Level Agreements (SLAs) and incident management procedures, should also be drawn out and governed.
4. Strategic teaming: A good Managed Service Provider will take the time to contribute towards your organizational strategy. This includes signing off on a 12-month roadmap addressing KPIs, future expansions, disaster recovery plans, and so on.
5. Pricing: Staying frugal and nimble are the primary goals behind hiring a Managed Service Provider. Some Managed Service Providers do offer premium pricing for specialized services, which are worth every penny. But the onus to weigh your options—cost versus benefits—and decide what is best for your business ultimately lies with you.
In the era of collaborative or partnership-led business models, hiring a managed services provider for your IT needs is a rational and forward-thinking decision. The right MSP can not only streamline and upgrade your IT operations, but also open your business to profitable technology solutions that result in new revenue streams.
