Selecting the Best MSP to Meet Your Business Technology Needs

Selecting the Best MSP to Meet Your Business Technology Needs

By Laura Stotler

Many businesses simply don't have the resources, time and money to run their IT operations and networks in-house. Turning to a managed service provider (MSP) to handle data and systems can help reduce costs and beef up technology capabilities and scalability.

Choosing the right MSP may seem like a daunting task but thankfully there are a number of criteria organizations can consider when evaluating their options. Of course, selecting a provider with solid experience and recommendations is a good starting point. Businesses should also evaluate if they have specific networking and service needs and choose an MSP that can support that specific criteria.

Additionally, there are a number of other considerations when selecting a service provider. Many MSPs are "hands-on," and will come into a business and craft a bespoke, custom solution to meet the specific needs of the client. Other MSPs take a "hands-off" approach with minimal face time and interventions, and this may be a better choice for some businesses that just want a few general types of services.

A good MSP will offer consistent levels of service throughout all aspects of the project. This includes communications, delivery of services and continuity. Likewise, a trustworthy MSP will continually seek new ways to better serve clients' needs. Security is a major part of consistency and goodwill, and should be the cornerstone of any MSP's service package.

Flexibility is another attractive trait when choosing an MSP and that includes a service provider's willingness to work with clients' changing devices, environments and integrations. Uninterrupted service, with some type of 24/7 monitoring in cases where it is warranted, is also a major selling point for any MSP.

Of course cost is a key factor in any type of technology decision and choosing an MSP is no exception. A variety of pricing models are available, including fixed costs or plans based on the number of devices and/or users. Other options include pricing for monitoring only, or tiered or value-based pricing plans.

Ultimately, businesses need to determine their technology needs and how an MSP can offer them the best value. Once a roadmap is laid out, an organization can evaluate a variety of MSPs and determine which one will be the best fit for their long-term plans and goals.




Edited by Luke Bellos
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MSPToday Contributing Editor

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