Article Summary
- Common signs of an ineffective MSP include recurring disruptions, poor communication, outdated cybersecurity, lack of innovation and unclear pricing.
- Transitioning to a new MSP can be an easy process with minimal disruption to your business by following a few key steps.
- Some of the common fears business face before switching include hesitations regarding downtime, loyalty, change fatigue, ROI or contractual obligations.
Is your relationship with your current managed service provider (MSP) starting to feel like a bad rom-com? You know, the one where you constantly check your phone for a response that never comes, and all your friends tell you that you deserve better?
Your MSP should be your digital knight in shining armor — not the dragon causing all the trouble. If the writing on the server wall brings wincing memories of unexplained downtime or mysterious invoices, it might be time to start swiping left.
At Mirazon, we’ve seen firsthand the transformation that happens when businesses find the right partner. We offer a wealth of expertise to help grow your business rather than just put out digital fires.
Still scratching your head, wondering, “Should I switch my MSP?” Here are five indications that it’s time for you to consider a change, plus expert guidance on transitioning with minimal disruption.
Signs It’s Time to Make a Switch
About 87.5% of organizations rely on MSPs to keep their IT systems operating smoothly. How do you know when to switch your MSP? It should be when your current IT provider starts dropping the ball.
1. Recurring Service Disruptions and System Breakdowns
Service disruptions hit like an unexpected plot twist in your favorite series. These aren’t just minor inconveniences. They’re manifestations of a deeper lying concern that’s waiting to sprout into significant problems that slow you down while draining your revenue and patience.
Frequent disruptions, slow response times, or the same IT provider issues popping up repeatedly raise big red flags. Your MSP should be monitoring your systems proactively to identify potential problems before they impact your company and implement permanent solutions when issues do arise.
Downtime shouldn’t be a regular part of your workweek. Your IT infrastructure management systems should be reliable.
2. Communication Feels Like Pulling Teeth
If reaching your MSP feels like sending messages into a black hole, or if you’re constantly following up on the status of your requests, that’s an even bigger red flag.
Your MSP should be transparent, responsive, and proactive in their communications. You shouldn’t have to chase them down for updates or explanations. You’re paying them to make your life easier, not more complicated.
3. Your Cybersecurity Feels Outdated or Compliance Is at Risk
Cybersecurity threats are evolving at lightning speed, and yesterday’s defenses won’t protect against tomorrow’s attacks.
If your MSP isn’t regularly updating your security protocols, conducting vulnerability assessments, or educating your team about emerging threats, they’ve left your business exposed.
Noncompliance puts your cybersecurity at risk and can lead to significant financial penalties and reputational damage. There were 227 million ransomware attacks in the U.S. in 2021, kickstarting a rising wave of cybersecurity threats for the years to come.
A forward-thinking MSP should be your guide through the complex world of cybersecurity. That’s why the Mirazonians stay on top of the latest security developments and provide top-notch IT compliance services, so you don’t have to.
4. Innovation and Business Growth Have Stalled
If your MSP is stuck in the past, recycling outdated solutions and showing zero interest in innovation, then your IT strategy lacks that essential spark. An innovative IT provider should be your partner in progress, offering the latest in managed IT solutions to keep your clients happy and business competitive.
Ask yourself:
- When was the last time your MSP suggested a new solution that genuinely improved your efficiency or capabilities?
- Have they helped you develop a technology roadmap that aligns with your business goals?
- Are they familiar with your industry and its specific challenges?
A good IT service provider is like a trusty sidekick, always ready with creative ideas that drive efficiency and foster growth. When your MSP stops innovating, it’s a sign that your IT infrastructure needs a fresh perspective.
5. Pricing Issues and Hidden Fees Keep Surprising You
Nobody likes surprises on their bill, especially when they come in the form of hidden or inexplicable fees. Constantly deciphering billing statements or getting hit with inconsistent or unexpected charges are clear signs that your provider’s pricing strategy is questionable. If your MSP’s prices keep creeping up without a corresponding increase in value or service quality, it might be time to explore other options.
A top-notch MSP will offer clear, upfront pricing, ensuring that you know what you’re paying for. At Mirazon, we believe in straightforward pricing without surprises. We’ll work with you to create a service package that meets your needs and budget.
What Makes a Great Managed Service Provider?
Now that we’ve covered the warning signs, let’s address the elephant in the room, “What makes a good vs. bad MSP?” Here’s what to look for in a new IT provider:
- Proactive monitoring and maintenance that prevents issues before they impact your operations
- Responsive, clear communication with dedicated points of contact who understand your business
- Cutting-edge cybersecurity practices that evolve with emerging threats
- Strategic IT planning that aligns with your business goals and growth trajectory
- Transparent, predictable pricing with clearly defined services and value
- Industry expertise that’s relevant to your specific business challenges
- Regular reviews and reporting that demonstrate ROI and identify areas for improvement
- Scalable solutions that can grow and adapt as your business needs change or evolve
These aren’t just nice things to have — they’re the foundation of a productive, strategic MSP relationship. That is exactly what we provide our clients at Mirazon.
How to Break up With Your Current MSP — Steps to Change MSP With Minimal Disruption
Sometimes, changing your business IT outsourcing is necessary for the sake of your brand’s continuity. Here’s how to switch to a new managed services provider:
- Assess your current situation: Take a good, hard look at your MSP’s performance. Note the specific pain points that have you considering a switch. Also, review your current contract to understand termination clauses, notice periods, and any potential penalties. A Mirazonian adviser can help you interpret the fine print.
- Notify your current MSP: This is best done in writing, following the terms outlined in your contract. Be professional and clear about your decision to minimize misunderstanding.
- Define your IT strategy: Before you jump ship, map out the short- and long-term IT goals you need from your new MSP.
- Research new providers: Select your new MSP carefully, considering their expertise, service offerings, client testimonials, and cultural fit with your organization. Compare how various companies will handle your IT provider transition, manage network downtime, and implement proactive IT infrastructure management.
- Manage the knowledge transfer between your old and new providers: The best transitions happen when there’s overlap between the old and new providers, allowing for a smoother handover of responsibilities. This can sometimes be challenging if the relationship has soured, but a good new MSP will know how to navigate.
- Plan your IT transition: Develop a detailed transition plan with your new provider. It should clearly detail timelines, responsibilities, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Communicate internally: Give your team a heads-up about the switch. Share how the new MSP is set to improve operations, streamline support, and drive business growth.
- Execute and monitor: With your plan in place, it’s time to figure out how to switch MSPs. Keep a close eye on the transition process, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your new provider if you encounter any hiccups.
Following these steps for switching MSP ensures that you’re not left in the lurch.
Common Fears About Switching MSPs
It’s natural to feel a bit jittery about change, especially when it involves something that impacts all your operations and is as essential as your IT systems. Apprehensions we have come across from clients choosing a new MSP provider include:
Fear of Disruption
Are you worried that switching your technology service provider might lead to a period of chaos and downtime? There’s no need to be with the right transition plan in place.
At Mirazon, our seamless onboarding guarantees zero downtime. We’ve refined this process since 2000 through hundreds of successful migrations.
Loyalty to Your Current Provider
Sometimes, loyalty to the status quo can hold you back from choosing the right MSP partner. We understand the value of long-term relationships, but loyalty should be earned through consistent service delivery excellence. We believe you deserve more.
Change Fatigue
Change fatigue is real, and we get it. That’s why we leave the heavy lifting to our dedicated transition team. They handle everything from documentation to implementation, so you can focus on what you do best — growing your brand.
Uncertainty About ROI
Changing your managed service provider might feel like a big leap. If you’re asking yourself, “Is it worth the investment?” here’s a spoiler alert — It’s a win-win.
At Mirazon, we offer assessments and detailed ROI analyses to show you just how much value our managed IT solutions can bring to your business. We’re confident in the improvements we can deliver.
Contractual Obligations
Are you concerned about getting tangled up in contracts with your current provider? Our highly skilled engineers are trained to negotiate contractual obligations with reasonable termination fees. Switching your MSP is easier than you might think, especially when you’ve got experts by your side.
FAQs About Switching MSPs
1. How long does it take to transition to a new MSP?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your IT environment, but most transitions can be completed within 30-60 days. We work diligently to ensure the process moves as quickly as possible without compromising thoroughness.
2. How do I start the switch to a new managed services provider?
Start by evaluating your current MSP’s performance and determining your IT goals. Then, reach out to us for a free consultation, where we’ll discuss your current challenges, goals, and requirements. We’ll develop a tailored transition plan from there.
3. Will I lose access to my data or IT systems during the transition?
Our meticulous transition process ensures your data is securely migrated and that you maintain uninterrupted access to your systems throughout the switch. We implement changes incrementally and often during off-hours to minimize potential impact on your operations.
4. Do I need to inform my old MSP that I’m switching?
Yes, you do. It’s best to do so professionally and in accordance with your contract terms. We can guide you on the most suitable timing and approach to this conversation to ensure a smooth handover and minimize contractual complications.
5. What should I look for in a new MSP?
Look for a provider with a stellar track record in managed IT solutions, robust cybersecurity measures, transparent pricing, and clear communication. They should understand your business goals and demonstrate a genuine interest in your success.
Don’t Settle for Mediocre IT Support
Your technology infrastructure is too important to entrust to a provider that’s not meeting your needs. If you’re experiencing any of the MSP support issues we’ve discussed, it might be time to explore your options.
At Mirazon, we’re here to make your IT transition as smooth as possible. We understand that change can be intimidating. However, our expertise in IT consulting firm processes, managed IT solutions, cloud migration services, and proactive cybersecurity measures ensures that your journey is hassle-free.
If you’re ready to make the switch, let’s chat! Discover how switching your MSP can be a game-changer for your business and experience an IT transition that leaves you feeling confident, secure, and ready to conquer your business goals. Call or email for a no-obligation consultation. We’ll show you how painless the transition can be.