Businesses looking to ensure their cybersecurity fortifications are up to par (while remaining actively aware of the industry’s rigorously evolving risks) is a tricky line to toe in 2024. According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, 73% of its recent respondents reported cybersecurity-related incidents in the past year alone. Thus, as my fellow editor and frequent MSP topic diver Greg Tavarez wrote, “this alarming trend demands stronger measures and awareness to protect sensitive data.”
Given the crucial role of teams in this space, we had the opportunity to speak with Sharken’s CEO ahead of the fast-approaching MSP Expo event taking place next week! From February 13-15 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, attendees will be able to visit and speak with teams like Sharken’s in order to further understand how to empower their own business successes through robust cybersecurity must-haves.
Below details our conversation with Sharken:
What recent innovations in your products or services are particularly relevant for MSPs today?
Our Risk Assessment Tool enables MSPs to conduct repeatable and effective risk assessments. Sharken is helping MSPs uncover risk while simultaneously creating revenue for themselves.
Describe your company's role in the MSP ecosystem and how your company supports MSPs?
Sharken is continually initiating conversations with MSPs about cybersecurity, thereby aiding in the process of securing their clients and boosting their ROI. With a 100% MSP focus, Sharken strives to be the optimal tool for MSPs, offering tailored features and functionalities to meet their many specific needs.
What trends are you seeing in the MSP space, and why are they important to MSPs?
The predominant trend we see in the MSP space revolves around MSPs venturing into the cybersecurity realm. Given clients' heightened apprehensions about cybersecurity, it becomes an inherent and legitimate concern for MSPs. Additionally, there's a growing unease among MSPs regarding client retention, as significant incidents often prompt clients to switch providers. This presents a challenge, emphasizing the need for proactive measures (like risk assessments) to secure client relationships.
How are these trends impacting your business?
It’s simple — Sharken has been assisting MSPs stay ahead of undue problems caused by the aforementioned trends by providing them with a reliable way to conduct Cyber Risk Assessments for their clients.
How do your services/products integrate into the MSP landscape, creating symbiotic
relationships rather than a mere vendor-client dynamic?
A Sharken Risk Assessment serves as the foundation for all cyber initiatives and IT enhancements. Numerous users have leveraged it as a launch pad to expand their cyber services, consequently boosting their clients’ cyber and IT budget.
What emerging technologies (e.g., IoT, 5G, AI, generative AI, etc.) should MSPs be considering and incorporating into their service offerings to help their clients stay ahead in their respective industries?
We've realized that remaining as current in the field of cybersecurity as possible (while providing related and much-needed services) is the most effective strategy to stay ahead of the competition.
The technology landscape and business needs are constantly evolving. How does your company's strategy actively encourage MSPs to embrace change and turn it into a strategic advantage?
With all the technological changes and cyber breaches making the news weekly, capitalizing on the “cyber focus” is a great way to increase revenue. Being that risk assessments are the bedrock of cybersecurity, this offers MSPs the real opportunity to provide their clients with far more cyber services based on the findings of given assessments.
What key challenges do MSPs commonly face and how are you helping solve them?
MSPs encounter challenges in providing repeatable and efficient cyber risk assessments, as well as navigating the broader landscape of cybersecurity. In response to this precise issue, we've developed a tool that leverages the MSP's understanding of their clients' environments. Our user-friendly platform not only addresses these challenges; it also enables MSPs to generate greater revenue by delivering comprehensive cyber risk assessments to smartly prepare for the future.
What sets your solution apart from competitors in the market?
Many tools are designed with the enterprise in mind or are very, to put it this way, “frameworky.” We differentiate ourselves by being extremely user-friendly and flexible with necessary approaches to framework, all without compromising security.
How do you see the MSP industry evolving in the next several years and how is your company preparing for these changes?
We are very passionate about staying up-to-date while consistently enhancing our skills in this dynamic field. Our enthusiasm stems from the ever-evolving nature of this awesome industry! We eagerly anticipate the transformations ahead and assure you that we'll always stay ahead of the curve.
What are you most looking forward to at MSP Expo 2024?
We can’t wait to talk with MSPs and hear about their struggles and triumphs alike! We love any and all MSPs, no matter what tools they use.
What is your session and why is it a must-attend at MSP Expo 2024?
Our session will spotlight the advantages of incorporating cyber risk assessments into your service offering, assisting you in evaluating its feasibility for your operations. Enhancing revenue and ensuring client satisfaction and security are just the beginning, in terms of the benefits associated with offering thorough cyber risk assessments.
Why are you participating at MSP Expo 2024 and what are you highlighting at your booth?
Join us to meet our exceptional team to find out! You’ll discover how Sharken can increase your revenue while ensuring the happiness and security of your clients.
Edited by
Alex Passett
