What Are Managed Service Providers and How Can They Help?

IT management can be a daunting task. Many companies are turning to Managed Service Providers (MSPs) for help.

At the MSP Association of America®, we often get asked, “Who are Managed Service Providers?” This blog post will answer that question and explore how MSPs can benefit your business.

What Do Managed Service Providers Actually Do?

The Core Functions of MSPs

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) provide various IT services to smoothly run your back-office tech functions. They let you prioritize your business development initiatives while handling everything from network monitoring to cybersecurity, which allows organizations to focus on their core operations.

MSPs act as external IT departments. They proactively manage and maintain IT infrastructure, often remotely. This includes tasks like system updates, network monitoring, and troubleshooting. A recent CompTIA study reveals that organizations have increased their usage of MSPs, which highlights the growing reliance on these services.

Types of Services Offered

MSPs offer a wide range of services tailored to business needs. These typically include:

1. Network Management: They monitor and maintain network performance.
2. Cybersecurity: MSPs implement and manage security measures to protect against threats.
3. Cloud Services: They manage cloud infrastructure and migrations.
4. Data Backup and Recovery: MSPs ensure data is safely stored and can be recovered in case of disasters.
5. Help Desk Support: They provide technical support to end-users.

How MSPs Differ from Traditional IT Support

MSPs take a proactive approach, unlike traditional break-fix IT support. They continuously monitor systems to prevent issues before they occur, rather than just respond to problems as they arise. This proactive stance leads to less downtime and improved productivity for businesses.

MSPs also offer more predictable costs through subscription-based models. Instead of unpredictable hourly rates for IT support, businesses pay a fixed monthly or annual fee. This allows for better budgeting and often results in cost savings.

Moreover, MSPs provide access to a broader range of expertise. While an in-house IT team might have limited knowledge, MSPs employ specialists across various IT domains. This means businesses can tap into high-level expertise without the need to hire multiple specialists full-time.

The Strategic Role of MSPs

MSPs are not just service providers; they’re strategic partners that help businesses leverage technology for growth and innovation. They offer insights into emerging technologies and help companies stay competitive in an increasingly digital landscape.

As businesses continue to rely more heavily on technology, the role of MSPs becomes increasingly important. They not only manage day-to-day IT operations but also help shape long-term technology strategies. This strategic partnership can lead to improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced innovation capabilities for businesses of all sizes.

Why Partner with an MSP

Slash IT Costs While Boosting Performance

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) offer a cost-effective alternative to maintaining an in-house IT department. MSPs leverage economies of scale to provide high-quality IT support at a fraction of the cost of hiring full-time staff. This approach can lead to significant savings on overall IT expenses for many organizations.

Tap into Cutting-Edge Expertise

MSPs employ teams of certified professionals who stay current with the latest technological advancements. This means you get access to a diverse pool of experts without the overhead of training and retaining in-house specialists. For example, if you need to implement a new cloud solution, an MSP can provide the necessary expertise without you having to hire a full-time cloud architect.

Fortify Your Security Posture

Cybersecurity remains a top concern for businesses today. MSPs offer robust security measures and compliance management, which reduce the risk of costly data breaches. They implement advanced threat detection systems, conduct regular security audits, and ensure your business adheres to industry-specific regulations like HIPAA or GDPR.

Scale Your IT Infrastructure Effortlessly

As your business grows, your IT needs evolve. MSPs provide the flexibility to scale your IT infrastructure up or down based on your current requirements. This agility proves particularly valuable for seasonal businesses or those experiencing rapid growth. You can add or remove services without the long-term commitment of hiring additional staff or investing in new hardware.

Focus on Core Business Objectives

MSPs act as strategic partners that help businesses leverage technology for growth and innovation. Outsourcing your IT management to an MSP frees up valuable time and resources. This allows you to concentrate on your core business objectives, resulting in improved efficiency, reduced downtime, and a stronger competitive position in your market.

Now that we’ve explored the benefits of partnering with an MSP, let’s examine how to choose the right provider for your specific business needs.

How to Find Your Perfect MSP Match

Define Your IT Needs and Goals

Take a deep dive into your current IT setup and future objectives before you start your search. Identify pain points in your existing infrastructure, areas where you lack expertise, and technology goals that align with your business strategy. This self-assessment will serve as your roadmap when you evaluate potential MSPs.

If you plan to migrate to the cloud in the next year, look for an MSP with strong cloud migration experience. If cybersecurity is your top concern, prioritize providers with robust security offerings and certifications.

Evaluate MSP Expertise and Reputation

Look beyond flashy marketing materials when you assess potential MSPs. Examine their track record, client testimonials, and industry recognition. Check if they have experience in your specific industry, as sector-specific knowledge can be invaluable.

Explore why managed services matter and how top MSPs deliver results using proven best practices. A reputable MSP should provide concrete examples of how they’ve helped businesses like yours overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Assess Service Offerings and Scalability

The IT landscape constantly evolves, and your business needs may change over time. Choose an MSP that offers a comprehensive range of services that can grow with your business. Look for providers that stay ahead of technology trends and can introduce you to innovative solutions that give you a competitive edge.

Ask potential MSPs about their approach to emerging technologies like AI and machine learning. Their answer will give you insight into their forward-thinking capabilities and ability to keep your business technologically relevant.

Scrutinize Support and Communication

The level of support and communication you receive from your MSP can make or break the partnership. Inquire about their response times, availability, and communication channels. Do they offer 24/7 support? How do they handle emergencies? What’s their escalation process for complex issues?

It’s also important to understand how they’ll integrate with your existing team. The best MSPs act as an extension of your in-house staff, fostering collaboration rather than creating silos.

Understand the Service Level Agreement

The Service Level Agreement (SLA) is a contract between an MSP and its client that defines the level of service expected and the metrics by which the service will be measured. Pay close attention to details like guaranteed uptime, response times for different issue severities, and the process for requesting changes or additional services.

Don’t hesitate to negotiate SLA terms to ensure they align with your business needs. A good MSP will customize their agreement to fit your specific requirements (within reason).

Final Thoughts

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) offer businesses a wide array of benefits, from cost-effective IT management to enhanced security and scalability. They allow organizations to focus on core objectives while experts handle complex IT tasks. The selection of an MSP requires careful consideration of business needs, evaluation of provider expertise, and examination of service offerings.

MSPs act as strategic partners that help organizations leverage technology for growth and innovation. As technology evolves, their role in shaping business strategies will become more significant. The integration of AI and machine learning in IT management will likely increase, offering more efficient and proactive solutions.

For businesses wondering who are managed service providers and how they can benefit from their services, the Managed Service Providers Association of America® (MSPAA®) offers valuable resources. MSPAA® provides a platform for businesses to connect with qualified MSPs that can meet their specific technology needs. MSPs have become indispensable partners for businesses of all sizes, offering expertise, cost-effectiveness, and strategic value in an increasingly digital world.