Choosing a managed services provider is a cost effective option for managing your business’ IT needs. Managed services providers deliver ROI with technical expertise, flexible plans, and speedy response times that just can’t be matched with a small in house IT department.
But not all managed services providers are created equal. Some will make you feel like a star while others will make you feel like the IT burden is on your shoulders.
What to Expect From Your Managed Services Firm
1. A Proactive Approach to Preventative Maintenance
One of the worst pieces of IT news to receive is that a major technology malfunction could have been prevented “if only” the system were up to date. “If only” is not what you want to hear when you’re facing down systems and potentially expensive fixes.
That’s why your managed services firm should have a proactive approach to preventative maintenance. A proactive approach not only saves you frustration and money, it’s crucial to the managed services provider business model.
The MSP business model hinges on driving down hours. When systems go down, support hours add up and the MSP’s profitability is threatened.
A proactive preventative maintenance program that includes updates, a backup disaster recovery plan, and more reduces the number of support hours. Driving down support hours mean more uptime and efficiency in the workplace.
Ask your MSP: What does your preventative maintenance plan entail?
2. They Try to Win Your Business Every Day
You should feel as rosy and warm about your managed services provider after one year as you did when they were first trying to win your business.
Just because the relationship is more established doesn’t mean the level of support should wane. MSPs that are dedicated to you as a client will be:
- Responsive
- Empathetic
- Communicative
- Honest
Ask your MSP: How often will we meet to discuss feedback and improvements?
3. Lower Overall Costs of Information Technology
Your MSP can bring many tools to the table that you can benefit from at reduced or no cost. This is one advantage of using an MSP over building an in house IT department.
Your managed services firm should align itself with your company and budget to make cost-benefit recommendations regarding technology. Your MSP should be clear and upfront about costs and ROI so you can make educated decisions.
At the end of the day, it’s your MSP’s responsibility to help you lower overall costs of information technology compared to costlier alternatives.
Ask your MSP: How will you help me lower my overall information technology costs?
4. Stay Up to Date on Current Technologies
Staying up to date is an important part of keeping your business efficient and safe.
Managed services providers should always be working on evaluating, testing, and supporting the latest technologies. This is how they stay relevant and competitive.
Ask your MSP: What measures do you have in place to learn about and support the latest technologies?
Hold Your MSP to High Standards
Technology is crucial to the success of your business. Hold your managed services provider to these high standards to protect your business in the long run.
If you feel like your IT tech company isn’t looking out for your business, request a meeting to address these concerns. And if you feel your business still isn’t being protected, it might be time to look for new partners.
