"A Managed Service Provider (MSP) can be invaluable to businesses seeking professional help with cloud, IT projects, and end-user support. MSPs leverage their technology, expertise, world class partnerships, and intenal 24/7 helpdesk process and procedures to help you efficiently scale your technology, providing Managed IT Services" - Levit8 Business IT Solutions Team
Once your systems are up and running with the help of your MSP, your IT infrastructure will run smoothly and you will have the support required to fix any issues straight away. Aside from this, an MSP can design an IT infrastructure that supports your business growth, increases efficiency, and reduces costs.
There are several factors to consider when choosing an MSP. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution it is important to consider your immediate business needs and the services you will require.
Key aspects to consider when choosing the right MSP:
Auditing Your IT Resources
Take an inventory of your IT resources such as the number and type of computers, servers, and network devices. Make a list of essential software applications such as Office 365, SalesForce, Company Management Software for example, and others critical to your business.
Make sure to include your IT security in the audit process including an assessment of how many employees access your systems remotely and which applications they connect to.
An MSP should be able to provide you with a document that covers all areas of your IT infrastructure, but it is extremely valuable to have an idea of your requirements in advance.
List the Services You Require From an MSP
Once you have audited your IT infrastructure, make a list of the requirements you need from your MSP.
The most common services include network management, data backup, secure data storage, disaster recovery, and helpdesk support for your employees.
When choosing an MSP, ensure they include these services and others you may need to scale your business.
Remote Management and Monitoring Services
A well-developed and structured MSP should have the infrastructure, monitoring systems, and staff knowledge to automatically manage and monitor your IT infrastructure. This includes your servers, network devices, workstations, routers, and firewalls.
They should also be able to automatically schedule updates and send alerts to your IT team (if you have internal IT) or be available on a 24/7 helpdesk to engage an appropriate response action.
On-Site Support
While most MSPs provide tier-one and remote monitoring support, they should also provide on-site support as required. They should have a network of onsite support professionals to deploy to your office as required.
On-site visits are important for the correct remedy and maintenance as required of IT equipment and hardware. Even if your team manages in-house, your MSP needs to be familiar with your IT infrastructure in the event of a failure or major disruption.
Cybersecurity Services
With cybercrime becoming rampant, it is increasingly important to defend your business against cyber-attacks.
Consider choosing an MSP who can provide a comprehensive cybersecurity solution and implements best practices to minimise risk.
Ensure they explain how they will handle your information and their security procedures. These should include IP scanning, penetration testing, intrusion detection, and compliance. Your best defense is world-leading End-point protection software such as CrowdeStrike to be deployed to all devices in your company, CrowdStrike Stop Breaches!
Cloud Solutions And Alignment With World Leading Cloud Platforms
With many businesses moving to the cloud, an MSP that offers scalable cloud solutions should be a primary consideration when making your choice.
Find out if they will be able to customise cloud solutions to scale your business. Most importantly, ensure they align with world calls cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure, ensuring your data and your systems are cloud hosted on the most stable platforms.
Ask if they provide multi-cloud or hybrid-cloud solutions to understand their capability with cloud solutions.
Industry Experience and Reputation
When choosing an MSP, look for someone who will be a long-term fit. Their experience and reputation should be an important factor in your choice.
Look for testimonials and case studies on their website and also ask for references.
Do some research to see if they have been mentioned in industry publications and what IT experts have said about them.
Comprehensive service level agreement (SLA)
A reputable MSP should provide a contract that details the services provided and offer an SLA to all clients.
An SLA protects your organisation and ensures you will have a harmonious relationship with your MSP provider. It lays down a mutual understanding of performance standards and expectations for both parties.
It all provides the peace of mind that If agreed requirements are not met, some of the impacts can be mitigated by monetary compensation.
Even if you have an SLA in place, review the contract every few months. As your business grows and changes, it should reflect your evolving needs for Managed IT Services.
You May Still Have Questions That Levit8 Business IT Solutions Can Asssit You With?
If you are in the process of choosing an MSP, we understand it is a big decision and we are here to help. We provide clients with a growth plan, the highest level of security, and efficiencies in a rapidly advancing technology era.
To speak to one of our IT experts, call us on 1800 538 488 or click here to contact us.
