What You Should Know About How to Choose a Managed Services Provider
According to CloudSecureTech, there are over 40,000 MSPs on the market, and that number is rapidly growing.
Selecting the ideal Managed Services Provider (MSP) for your business requires careful analysis and a methodical approach to ensure they align with your organization’s goals and challenges.
| “A reliable MSP is more than just a service provider. They become a strategic partner in fostering your company’s long-term growth and innovation,” explains Bryan Fuller, CEO of Contigo Technology. |
In this guide, we’ll explore the critical factors involved in how to choose a managed services provider that complements your business needs. We’ll cover the essential considerations for forming a successful MSP relationship, including:
- How to choose a managed services provider
- How to choose managed security services
- Core technical questions to qualifying MSP
- Key questions to ask during MSP discovery
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Understanding Managed IT Services and Their Benefits
Managed IT services offer an efficient solution for businesses looking to enhance their technology infrastructure while focusing on core operations.
These services involve outsourcing IT responsibilities, such as application management and operational oversight, to a dedicated MSP.
Statistics reveal that 37% of IT operations are outsourced to MSPs, with 13.6% of IT budgets allocated to these services. Engaging with an MSP provides numerous advantages, including:
- Cost efficiency
- Specialized expertise
- Constant peace of mind
- Proactive IT management
- Enhanced system reliability
- Around-the-clock technical support
- Advanced cybersecurity capabilities
- Access to state-of-the-art technologies
- Focused attention on business priorities
Defining Your Managed Services Vendor Selection Criteria
To develop effective managed services selection criteria, your business must thoroughly evaluate several potential providers.
As a result, navigating the world of managed IT services can be overwhelming. However, there are some universal benchmarks that can guide your decision. When considering an MSP, focus on the following elements:
1. Service Offerings
Ensure the MSP’s expertise aligns with your business needs, from network management and cloud services to robust cybersecurity solutions.
2. Proven Track Record
Investigate their history, testimonials, and case studies to assess reliability and quality.
3. Ability to Scale with Changing Needs
Choose a provider capable of adapting to your evolving business requirements.
4. Transparent, Upfront Pricing
Gain a clear understanding of their cost structure to prevent budget surprises.
5. Proactive Technical Support
Opt for an MSP that anticipates issues rather than merely reacting to them.
6. Cybersecurity Proficiency
The average number of weekly cyberattacks per organization reached 1,876 in the third quarter of 2024, representing a 75% increase over 2023. This is a perfect example of why finding an MSP with a strong commitment to safeguarding your data is critical.
7. Cultural Compatibility
The provider should share similar values and seamlessly integrate with your organizational culture.
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Essential Questions to Ask During MSP Discovery
Formulating the right questions to ask an MSP is crucial to evaluating their compatibility with your business. Incorporate both technical and non-technical questions in your discovery process to gain a holistic understanding.
Technical Questions:
- What IT services and solutions do you offer, and how do they address our unique needs?
- What are your areas of technical expertise? Can you provide examples of successful projects?
- How do you approach cybersecurity? What measures are in place to safeguard sensitive data?
- What is your average response time for resolving issues?
- Can you detail the guarantees provided in your Service Level Agreements (SLAs)?
- How do you manage data backup and recovery?
Non-Technical Questions:
- Can you describe your experience within our industry? Do you have any client testimonials or case studies available?
- How does your company culture align with ours?
- How do your services integrate with existing IT systems?
- Can you outline your pricing model, including potential hidden fees?
- How do you scale services to accommodate growth or changing needs?
- How do you stay ahead of industry trends and prepare for future challenges?
Managed Services Selection Criteria: Key Takeaways
The ideal MSP delivers a comprehensive suite of managed services that seamlessly scale with your business, enabling long-term growth and success.
To find a provider that aligns with your objectives, prioritize MSPs offering valuable services such as cybersecurity, cloud solutions, IT helpdesk support, and network management, among others.
Effective communication is another hallmark of a great provider. Your MSP should maintain open lines of dialogue, ensuring your evolving needs are met with tailored solutions.
Additionally, a proactive MSP stays ahead of industry trends, offering recommendations and implementing strategies that boost productivity and drive value for your organization.
The questions to ask an MSP outlined in this blog are a starting point. Consider additional inquiries specific to your business or industry when engaging with a potential provider to ensure a perfect fit.
A Quick Comparison of Key Managed Services Features
| Feature | What to Look For | Why it Matters |
| Service Offerings | Comprehensive support across cybersecurity, cloud, network management, and IT helpdesk services. | Ensures your provider can handle all your IT needs under one roof, reducing complexity. |
| Scalability | Ability to scale services as your business grows and technology evolves. | Supports long-term growth without needing to switch providers or overhaul systems. |
| Response Times | Clear SLAs detailing quick response and resolution times. | Minimizes downtime and ensures business continuity. |
| Cybersecurity Expertise | Advanced protocols, threat detection, and prevention measures. | Protects your business from cyber threats and ensures data safety. |
| Proactive Monitoring | 24/7 monitoring to identify and resolve issues before they escalate. | Keeps your systems running smoothly with minimal disruption. |
| Pricing Transparency | Detailed cost breakdown with no hidden fees. | Helps you budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses. |
| Industry Experience | Proven track record, testimonials, and case studies. | Provides confidence in their ability to deliver reliable and quality services. |
| Technology Expertise | Familiarity with the latest tools and trends relevant to your industry. | Ensures your business stays competitive and up-to-date with advancements in technology. |
| Cultural Compatibility | Alignment with your company’s values and communication style. | Fosters a stronger, collaborative partnership where everyone is aligned. |
Find a Managed Services Provider that Meets Your Criteria
Defining your managed services selection criteria and asking targeted questions is the key to selecting the ideal MSP for your business.
With over 12 years of delivering innovative managed IT solutions, Contigo Technology stands as a trusted partner. We combine technical expertise with a client-first approach to empower businesses like yours with tailored IT strategies.
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If you’re ready to enhance your IT operations, strengthen your network, or adopt advanced technology solutions, contact us today for a free consultation.