When everyone seems to be saying the same thing, how do you distinguish which MSP is right for you?
Choosing the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) is a critical decision for any business. While it might seem counterintuitive for an MSP to offer advice on selecting one, the reality is that a well-matched partnership benefits both parties. By understanding the nuances and asking the right questions, you can ensure that your business finds an MSP that truly aligns with your goals and values.
Why your business should use an MSP?
When evaluating MSPs, it’s crucial to go beyond surface-level similarities and delve deeper to uncover the unique value each provider offers.
A few basic tips to start off with:
- Actions Speak Louder: Prioritize providers who consistently deliver on their promises.
- Don’t Settle: If you’re not satisfied, don’t be afraid to seek a better fit.
- Validate Claims: Verify their capabilities through referrals and client testimonials.
- Shared Success: Ensure their definition of success aligns with your business goals.
- Substance Over Style: Look beyond marketing hype and focus on long-term value.
- Local Partnership: If a Western CO partnership is important, consider its impact on service and support.
Here are some key strategies (and worksheet to use) to help you distinguish the right MSP for your specific business needs:
Prioritize Your Unique Needs
Assess Your Specific Requirements: The right MSP spends time with your team to clearly understand your goals, and pain points. They will also help define your organization’s IT challenges.
- Question to ask the MSP: Who will I meet with as my account rep and how often?
Consider Your Industry and Size: The right MSP has experience in your industry and a track record of success with businesses of similar size. They treat “small” business like big business.
- Question to ask the MSP: What is your target business, you ideally like to partner with?
Evaluate Your Budget: The right MSP offers flexible pricing models, leasing options and transparent cost structures.
- Question to ask the MSP: How will you help us manage our IT budgetary needs?
Dig Deeper into Their Services
Beyond Standard Offerings: The right MSP understands the areas that are critical to your business, and what makes your business unique.
- Question to ask the MSP: How will you get to know my business and what we need?
Customized Solutions: The right MSP tailors their services to your specific needs and how they approach problem-solving.
- Question to ask the MSP: What is a recent example of solving a very specific problem for a client?
Proactive vs. Reactive: The right MSP’s approach to your IT management will be proactive, meaning they promptly act upon arising problems, such as monitoring alerts, hardware issues, end of life support, etc.
- Question to ask the MSP: What steps do you take when alerts are populated by your tools? How are you proactive beyond your standard monitoring tools?
Evaluate Their Expertise and Experience
Technical Proficiency: The right MSP has a broad range of technical expertise to ensure they have the skills to manage your IT infrastructure effectively.
- Question to ask the MSP: What is the background of your team and how do they stay current on changing technology? How does your team share knowledge and cross-train?
Industry Knowledge: The right MSP understands your industry’s unique challenges, line of business software and other tools, compliance requirements.
- Question to ask the MSP: What clients do you have in my industry, or that which would be comparable?
Proven Track Record: The right MSP has a strong reputation and proven consistency of past successes and client satisfaction. Keep in mind, this goes deeper than online reviews and marketing, but the complete reputation of the business.
- Question to ask yourself: What MSP does my internet carrier, fellow businesses, or other vendors recommend?
Communication and Collaboration
Open and Transparent Communication: The right MSP values open and transparent communication and keeps you informed about the status of your IT environment.
- Question to ask the MSP: How will you communicate with my team and how do we communicate with you?
Collaborative Approach: The right MSP will work closely with your team or point person and involve you in decision-making processes.
- Question to ask the MSP: What are the ways you involve us in decision-making and discussions? What educational resources do you provide?
Responsive Support: The right MPS will be continually responsive and available to address your IT issues, remotely and physically.
- Question to ask the MSP: Will you come onsite to troubleshoot without us having to request it?
Cultural Fit and Long-Term Partnership
Shared Values: The right MSP shares your values and understands your business goals.
- Question to ask the MSP: When did you last speak to your team about your core values?
Long-Term Commitment: The right MSP is committed to a long-term partnership and is willing to invest in your success.
- Question to ask the MSP: What is the average longevity of your clients?
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By carefully considering these factors, you can distinguish between MSPs and identify the one that aligns best with your unique need, goals, team and culture. Choose one that makes you feel wanted and valued (and not just after the initial sale). Remember, the right MSP will not only provide technical expertise but also become a trusted partner in your business growth. If you recognize their worth and importance to your business, they should do the same.