When it comes to selecting the right managed service provider (MSP) for your business, there are a few key criteria to consider. From availability and rapid response to proven ability to deliver strategic assets and ROI, evaluating your MSP is an ongoing process. You want to make sure you're getting the services you pay for. The MSP market is expected to grow exponentially over the next seven years, and more than 45 percent of global organizations are expected to use MSPs in the next 18 months.
With the shift to hybrid work structures, companies rely more than ever on Internet infrastructure and data security. This is where MSPs come in, providing ongoing support in areas such as IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and customer accounting services (CAS). When evaluating an MSP, there are 10 key considerations that the leadership team should consider carefully. These include availability and rapid response, proven ability to deliver strategic assets and ROI, independent organizations, contract flexibility, security posture, helpdesk support, reliability and reputation, scalability of services, direct strategy and help outside of user support, and cost-effectiveness.
It's important to understand how secure the MSP organization really is. The MSP must be able to share an updated SOC 2 Type II report and a bridge charter or undergo an SOC 2 audit before committing to its services. Additionally, make sure that the contract can be adjusted if circumstances change. Reliability and reputation are also essential factors when evaluating IT companies.
Align's fully packaged managed services provide scalable solutions that span everything from managed cloud to managed security and ITSM. Xterra has developed the people, processes and technology to deliver first-hand IT services for a fraction of the cost of hiring full-time staff. Before you hire an MSP, you must perform your due diligence to ensure that you are working with the right IT partner who has the right experience, credentials, processes, knowledge, and services. A managed services partner will ensure that you are proactively running the updates you need now to avoid problems later.
Make sure you select the right managed IT service provider that can deliver cutting-edge solutions and allow you to focus on strategic priorities.
