In today’s fast-paced digital world, businesses of all sizes need reliable technology to stay competitive. But for many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), managing an extensive IT infrastructure is not feasible. That’s where managed services professionals come in. These experts help businesses streamline their IT operations, reduce downtime and improve security. As a result, managed services have become increasingly popular over the years.
According to ChannelE2E, the global managed services market is expected to reach $354.8 billion by 2026, with SMBs making up a significant portion of the market. This research highlights the value of MSPs for SMBs. You may, however, still be wondering, “How can a managed services professional help me?” And how do you go about finding and hiring the right one for your business?
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of managed services, exploring the roles, responsibilities and benefits of employing an MSP. We will also provide insights on choosing the best provider for your company. Read on!
Expectations When Hiring a Managed Services Professional
Understanding what to expect from a reliable managed services professional can give you a better grasp of how valuable an MSP can be for your business. It can also help you determine how to take full advantage of such services. So, let’s take a look at some essential things you should expect from a competent managed service provider:
- Proactive approach: Unlike an in-house IT team, a good MSP will not just respond to problems as they arise but will proactively monitor your systems 24/7, identify potential issues and resolve them before they turn into significant problems.
- Technical expertise: An MSP will have a team of experienced professionals with a deep understanding of the latest technologies and best practices in the industry. They would have relevant certifications and accreditations to show their level of expertise.
- Responsiveness: A good MSP will be responsive to your needs, whether it’s a simple request or a significant problem. They’ll have a reliable communication system and be available to provide support whenever needed.
- Flexible service plans: A good MSP would be able to offer flexible service plans that can be customized to meet your specific needs. They’ll also be able to scale up or down as your business grows or changes and offer transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
These attributes of contemporary MSPs make them a vital tool for any company trying to stay on the cutting edge of technology while also trying to maximize ROI.
What To Consider When Hiring a Managed Services Professional
With an understanding of what an MSP is and what to expect when hiring one, the question becomes: how do you find the right MSP that can offer the services you need for your particular business? To help you with that, here are some key factors to consider when selecting a managed service professional.
Cost
One important factor to consider when hiring a managed service provider is cost. MSPs offer a range of services, and their prices can vary depending on the scope of work required. Evaluating your budget and determining what services you need before selecting an MSP is essential. Be sure to ask about any additional costs or hidden fees that may arise during the engagement. Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best choice, as the quality of service and reliability should also be taken into account.
Experience and Expertise
When selecting a managed service provider (MSP), experience and expertise are crucial factors. Look for MSPs with a proven track record of success in your industry and the technical skills necessary to meet your specific needs. It’s also important to consider their level of expertise and certifications and their ability to stay up-to-date with emerging technologies. Don’t hesitate to ask for references and case studies to ensure you’re partnering with an MSP with the necessary experience and expertise to provide the services you require.
Response Times and Support
Another factor to consider when hiring an MSP is its support capabilities. You want an MSP that can offer round-the-clock support for any issues that may arise. Additionally, you should inquire about their response times for critical issues, as quick resolution times can minimize downtime and prevent potential revenue loss. Look for MSPs with a robust support infrastructure, including a help desk and ticketing system, to ensure that you receive timely and practical support.
How To Hire a Managed Services Professional
When business owners consider managed services an efficient way to handle their IT, accounting and payroll, HR, purchasing, or vendor and supply chain management, they often focus on how a managed services professional can assist them or what to expect when hiring one. However, they overlook the crucial question: “Is my business prepared to engage an MSP?”
Managed services providers face challenges, many of which stem from the structure and plan of your business. While they can typically overcome these obstacles, they may incur additional costs. Although these costs are usually still lower than those of an in-house IT team, they can be avoided if you have a good understanding of how to use an MSP. This is one issue managed services clients may encounter due to a lack of knowledge.
Why Fixed Fee Works
Fortunately, at US Resources, we understand these concerns. As a managed service provider with over 30 years of experience helping thousands of organizations optimize their technology management and security, we’ve created a comprehensive managed services guide. This guide addresses Why Fixed Fee Works and provides all the necessary information about engaging a managed services professional. Don’t hesitate to download the eBook and elevate your business with managed services.
