Choosing the right managed IT service provider (MSP) is not just about who can fix a computer when it crashes. It is about finding a long term partner who will protect your data, keep your systems running and align technology with your business goals. Before signing a contract, it is essential to ask the right questions. Here are some critical questions that you can ask a potential MSP so you can feel confident in your investment and ensure that your business is set up for growth.
How Long Has the MSP Been In Business?
Experience matters when it comes to managed IT service providers, and is something to consider when trying to find the right one for your business. The longer that an MSP has been in business, the better chance that they have more expertise in businesses similar to yours. Knowing your MSP’s background is critical because it gives you an idea of how knowledgeable they are in your industry. Ideally, you will find an MSP that has worked with customers in your industry, so they are able to understand and approach those specific processes and solutions. But just because an MSP is newer, does not mean that they necessarily lack experience. You need to decide if your business requires an experienced MSP or if you are able to work with the new kid on the block.
What Certifications Do the Engineers Have?
Along with experience, it is important that your MSP can prove that it is knowledgeable in their IT solutions. In the technology space, this is shown through certifications. When engineers hold certifications, it showcases that the MSP has vetted the engineer as having the knowledge and skills to implement their solutions. As a result, new and experienced MSPs are able to employ a staff of certified engineers.
What Security Solutions Does the MSP Offer?
Cybersecurity is imperative for every business in today’s world. Keeping this in mind, you need to find a MSP that offers complete IT management solutions. The best MSPs offer comprehensive solutions that include anti-spam, antivirus, DNS filtration and multi-factor authentication solutions. Beyond just cybersecurity, a good MSP will offer backup and disaster recovery solutions, user training and on-staff cybersecurity experts to answer your questions.
How Do They Communicate About Contract Agreements?
Your MSP should be communicative both before you sign up for services and during your term. There should be a contact that your organization can reach out to and that will help you set a strategic direction for your IT solutions. Your MSP should be scheduling these strategy meetings on a quarterly basis.
In addition, your MSP should always be upfront about billing and costs. They should create clear and straightforward invoices that explain each charge. When it comes to billing, your MSP should provide you with an estimate of monthly payments early in the prospecting process so that you are aware of their rates. This type of communication should continue after you have signed a contract to ensure that you are kept up-to-date on all invoice and billing changes.
What is the Managed IT Services Team Like?
At the end of the day, you have to find the right MSP for your business. You could find an MSP with 10 years of experience with the best security solutions, and all certified engineers, but they could still not be the right choice for you. It could all come down to how you interact with the MSPs staff. If you feel like the people behind the MSP do not align with your own company culture, that could be a sign that they are not the right fit. You want to be able to identify the personality of the team, and to make sure you like working with them.
A managed IT service provider should bring clarity and peace of mind to your operations. By asking these questions, you’ll gain a clearer picture of what you will be paying for, the support you will receive and how your MSP will help your business thrive. If you are ready for a provider who will protect your business, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how Intellicomp Technologies can take the stress out of IT for your business.
