There’s a reason we go to a mechanic to fix our cars, a hairdresser to give us a trim, and a dentist to check our teeth. Some things should simply be done by professionals. When it comes to managing your IT infrastructure, you could devote resources and time to finding in-house staff and keeping up with the latest best practices. Or you could seek out a Managed Service Provider (MSP), an expert in their field.
Businesses of all sizes rely on complex IT infrastructure. Managing this infrastructure internally can be a drain on resources, taking away focus from core operations. That’s where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come in. An MSP can be a valuable partner, taking care of your IT needs and allowing you to focus on your core business. MSPs offer a range of IT services, from network management and security to cloud solutions and ongoing support. But with so many MSPs vying for your business, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming.
To ensure you make the right choice for you and your business, you’ll want to ask potential MSPs some key questions.
Questions to Ask an MSP
Here are the essential questions to ask an MSP to ensure a smooth and successful partnership:
Pricing & Structure:
- What pricing options do you offer (fixed fee, tiered, pay-as-you-go)?
- Are there any hidden fees or additional costs?
- How do you handle unexpected IT needs outside the standard package?
MSP Onboarding Process:
- What is your typical onboarding process for new clients?
- How will you integrate with our existing IT infrastructure?
- How long will the onboarding process take?
Services Provided:
- Can you provide a detailed breakdown of the services included in your standard packages?
- Do you offer any additional services à la carte?
- Are there any specific IT needs you cannot address?
Compliance & MSP Security:
- Do you support compliance with any specific industry frameworks? Examples of this vary by industry but may include HIPAA and PCI DSS.
- What security measures do you implement to protect client data?
- Do you offer regular security assessments? What about vulnerability testing?
Industry Expertise:
- Can you share case studies or examples of how you’ve helped businesses in our industry?
- Do you have any existing clients in our industry that you can provide as references?
Support & Response:
- What are your expected response times for different issue severities?
- Do you offer 24/7/365 support?
- How will you communicate with us about IT issues (phone, email, ticketing system)?
Technical Expertise:
- What technology and cybersecurity vendors do you partner with?
- What level of expertise do your technicians have with these technologies?
Contract & Team:
- What are the typical contract terms (length, termination)?
- Can you provide a breakdown of the size and experience of your team?
- Who will be our primary point of contact at your company?
By asking these detailed questions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the IT Managed Service Provider’s capabilities and how well they align with your specific needs. This will help you choose a provider who can effectively manage your IT infrastructure and ensure the continued success of your business (check out other considerations here.)
Beyond the Questions: Building a Strong MSP Partnership
Choosing a managed service provider that is right for you is just the first step. Building a strong, collaborative partnership is key to maximizing the benefits of managed IT services. Here are some additional tips:
- Clear Communication: Maintain open communication with your managed IT provider. Keep them informed of your business goals and evolving needs.
- Regular Reviews: Conduct regular reviews to assess the effectiveness of the MSP’s services. Are they meeting your expectations?
- Embrace Transparency: Be transparent with the MSP about your IT environment and any potential challenges.
By asking the right questions and fostering a collaborative partnership, you can leverage the power of an MSP to streamline your IT operations, enhance security, and free up valuable resources to focus on what matters most – growing your business.
Mirazon Managed Services
Mirazon Managed Services can be your trusted guide on your digital journey. We offer a comprehensive suite of IT solutions designed to meet the unique needs of your business. Contact us today for a free consultation and to discuss how we can help you achieve your IT goals.