Hiring a managed IT services provider (MSP) is the go-to solution for small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) if they want to reduce the costs, challenges, and risks associated with workplace technology. MSPs maintain IT infrastructure, provide IT services and support, and protect a business’s systems and data 24/7.
However, not all MSPs are created equal. To achieve the optimal benefits of hiring an MSP, make sure to select the best fit for your business. Here’s a checklist of what to look for in a service provider.
- They have an excellent track record
The expertise offered by MSPs has expanded dramatically in recent years. In addition to simple network solutions, they also offer data analytics, business intelligence (BI), and advanced application monitoring. These services make the MSP market highly competitive, so choosing the best one can be difficult.
One way to do it is by shortlisting the companies with the most years of experience. Also, consider if they have a good understanding of IT trends. A reliable services provider must have a proficient knowledge of new technologies and businesses. You can find this out by checking their portfolio, press releases, or the testimonials in their website that are relevant to your industry.
- They deliver cybersecurity solutions
Your IT infrastructure should always have robust protection against cyberattacks. This means that your partner MSP must deliver a comprehensive cybersecurity solution that’s seamlessly integrated with your IT systems. They should understand that not having solid cybersecurity protocols can result in costly downtime and serious cybercrime damages — just look at the millions of dollars these businesses spent due to data breaches.
- They can address issues both remotely and on-site
It’s not a must for your MSP to always visit you on-site whenever a tiny problem comes up. Remote support is enough to address minor issues. But there are problems — usually hardware-related — that require on-site visits to be solved.
Also, having the chance to talk face to face to your IT partner will help you understand the problems of your infrastructure in depth. This will give you a better idea of your IT requirements and how you want to customize your solutions to meet these needs.
In the end, you will have a more collaborative attitude towards IT maintenance, and it will be easier to relay your ideas and goals to your MSP.
- They provide remote management and monitoring (RMM)
A dedicated MSP watches over every aspect of their clients’ IT infrastructures and leaves no tables unturned, from firewalls to workstations.
They automate the management and monitoring of entire systems to ensure that they’ll detect breaches and hardware malfunctions as soon as they occur. Automation also guarantees that no software upgrade or patch deployment is skipped.
- They can tailor their services to your budget and business preferences
The best MSP for your business should have services that address your company’s needs. Basic operating system maintenance and availability management are just basic services offered by all MSPs. What you should look for is an MSP whose consultants are knowledgeable in the tech you want to implement, be it virtualization, cybersecurity, business continuity, mobility, custom app development, or cloud computing.
Their services should also be scalable, so they can support your business’s growth. A reputable MSP should ask the right questions about your business model and goals, clearly lay down their plans for your enterprise, and identify the right tools and resources to set you up for success.
Don’t let your business be left behind by your competitors. Adapt to the rapid evolution of technology by partnering with a trusted MSP like CyberShift Technologies. Our IT specialists are always at your beck and call, so you can focus on your business instead of technology troubles. Call us today!
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