Choosing the right MSP is an important decision for many businesses. Managed services can be helpful for teams who need more expertise or time to manage business processes internally or would rather prioritize other initiatives. It can also be more cost-effective than constantly deploying resources to address IT product issues that arise. Before you choose an MSP, consider these key points:
Cost
Cost can be a major concern when shopping for an IT-managed service provider. After all, you have a business to run, and your IT infrastructure is the backbone. Finding an affordable IT provider offering reliable services is possible, but you must take the time to shop around. Ask each potential MSP for a quote and determine how they calculate pricing. For example, some companies charge for support tickets, while others have a flat monthly fee. Also, ask each potential MSP about their team’s experience and specializations. WorkSmart has a knowledgeable staff who can quickly resolve issues and improve your organization’s performance.
Flexibility
Managed IT services are a great way to free up your internal IT team’s time so they can focus on their job. Many companies use an MSP to handle day-to-day IT maintenance, support, and reporting. It allows your employees to spend time on projects to help you grow or execute your company strategy. Managed IT services will enable you to scale up or down based on your needs. This flexibility might be extremely beneficial if your company is expanding or requires assistance achieving IT goals. It also helps ensure that your IT infrastructure is scalable and future-proof. When choosing a managed service provider, look for one with experience in your industry and a proven track record. Also, ask for references from current clients and speak with them to learn about their experience. You should also ask the company about their response times and if they can offer support 24/7. If they cannot, you should consider other providers.
Reliability
Reliability measures the probability that a product will work correctly over time and under conditions. Reliability can also be defined as how long a system or product will function before it fails, as well as its rate of failure over time. The reliability of a technology solution is determined by its cost, functionality, ease of use, and security. Companies of all sizes rely on technology for their day-to-day operations. However, managing a complex IT infrastructure can be resource-intensive for business owners and internal IT teams. When these employees spend less time putting out IT fires, it can impact productivity and cause frustration among staff members. Managed service providers offer preventative IT support, including backups and disaster recovery solutions. They can also assist with troubleshooting and help 24/7. It frees up internal resources so employees can focus on revenue-enhancing tasks and improve company operations. Ask potential MSPs about their experience and specializations to ensure they can meet your needs.
Security
If your business relies on reliable technology to run communication and securely store data, you need a team to provide consistent, fast support when issues arise. During your search for an IT management provider, ask each candidate about their support staffing structure and what measures they take to reduce downtime and respond to customers quickly. You also want to ensure that the managed service provider you choose understands your industry’s compliance requirements, such as HIPAA and PCI DSS. Having this understanding can help you avoid heavy fines and other legal complications should your business become the victim of a cyberattack or other disaster.
Asking prospective providers of managed IT services how they have assisted organizations similar to yours in the past is a smart move while looking for one. Knowing how their work helped increase productivity, lower internal IT costs, and improve operational efficiency can give you a better sense of whether or not managed IT services are right for your company.