So you need a managed service provider? Nowadays, MSPs seem to be popping up all over the place. Unfortunately, a true MSP is as evasive as the new “social media expert:” many will claim these titles but few are actually seasoned authorities in their respective fields. That is why you should take both the time and consideration while following this 8 step guide on selecting the best fit your company.
Step 1: Learn
If you are considering an MSP, you must first learn what that concept/what outsourcing your IT entails, and what the latest industry trends are. This sort of research will provide you with the basic foundational knowledge you will require in order to make an informed decision later.
Step 2: Identify
Identify the MSPs in your area, their service offerings, your specific business objectives, what business technology solutions you require to meet said objectives, and whether or not these local MSPs provide the solutions that you will require.
Step 3: Seek
Seek out more information on the local and relevant MSPs you have detected: their clientele, their relevant experience, their references, the scalability of their solutions, their infrastructure, their technical competence, certifications they may possess, number of years in the field, their areas of expertise, et cetera.
Step 4: Evaluate
Now that you have all of this information at your disposal, you need to proceed to evaluations. Which company or companies seem to be the best fit, seem able to provide you with exactly the solutions, pricing, scalability and client service that you require?
Step 5: References
Always check references! You want to be certain that the company and their employees are only making the best of impressions: that all client testimonials are nothing but 100 percent positive. Ask management for a list of relevant references (where the service provided best matches what you are looking for) and be sure to follow up and call.
Step 6: Select
It is now time to make your selection. Be sure that you pick the MSP that best provides the solutions you require and that had the best references. Ideally you want an MSP who will become your trusted business partner, ready to embark upon a long-term, reliable, quality relationship.
Step 7: Try
Your best way to test out a new MSP is to start small, with only one or a few solutions, and then expand if all goes well. This pilot is meant to help you determine whether or not the MSP you have selected is the best fit regarding suitability, commitment, and competence.
Step 8: Scale-up
Once you are certain that this is the MSP for you, then scale-up and integrate all of the available solutions that you require.
Resources
This list brought to you by Innominds Software: www.innominds.com
Want to learn more?
Contact Bryley Systems today. Call us at 888.280.5799 or email us at Sales@Bryley.com
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