As your business grows, it becomes crucial to partner with a managed IT services provider (MSP) to ensure the smooth functioning of your IT systems, data security, and productivity of your staff. An effective MSP should serve as a valuable partner, driving cost savings and revenue for your organisation. However, selecting the right MSP requires careful consideration of their ability to meet your business’s specific IT requirements.
To aid in this process, we present a comprehensive list to evaluate potential MSPs. We hope this information allows you to expand your knowledge on MSP’s and what they should be doing to help and benefit your business in order to make the correct decision.
Checklist for Selecting a Managed IT Services Provider
Here is a list of things you should consider when selecting an MSP:
1. Responsive IT Helpdesk
A reliable MSP should swiftly resolve technical issues like internet downtime, application errors, or lost devices. It’s important to evaluate their ability to troubleshoot and fix problems based on the quality of their service agents, training programs (such as HDI Certification), adherence to IT service management (ITSM) best practices like ITIL, and compatibility with your existing IT systems. At the end of the day, you want to trust a service that is reliable so that you have you have the most dependable IT system for your business.
2. Third-Party Vendor Partnerships
Check if the MSP maintains partnerships with your software, hardware, and service vendors (e.g., Microsoft, Dell, Sophos). These partnerships can offer benefits like discounts, certified configuration and support services, and overall cost savings for your business. It makes life easier.
3. Local On-Site Technical Support
You may want to check that the MSP has provisions for providing on-site technical support if required. This can involve having a local office or a network of IT professionals in your region who can be quickly dispatched to assist you.
4. Cybersecurity Support
Given the importance of cybersecurity, your MSP should prioritise protecting your IT assets. They should have robust measures in place to secure web traffic, prevent unauthorised access, and maintain data confidentiality. Additionally, ensure that the MSP follows strong password management and access control practices to safeguard your data and minimise compliance risks.
5. Compliance Support
Work with an MSP that can help your IT systems comply with relevant industry and regional regulations, such as GDPR and NIST. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to costly fines and penalties. Confirm that the MSP themselves adheres to these regulations to avoid liabilities related to third-party vulnerabilities and incidents.
6. Network/Data/Application Monitoring
An MSP should provide 24/7 monitoring and incident response services for your on-premises or cloud-based data. This includes ensuring data security, compliance with frameworks, and managing the underlying infrastructure effectively. By offering Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) management, the MSP can handle the day-to-day operation of your cloud infrastructure, allowing you to focus on revenue-generating tasks.
7. Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity Support
Evaluate whether the MSP hosts your data in secure data centres, follows standard security practices, and complies with industry-specific frameworks. They should also have failover mechanisms in place, enabling seamless data rollover to alternative data centres in different locations in case of failures or disasters. Furthermore, they should assist you in restoring daily operations swiftly after a disaster strikes.
8. Contract Flexibility
Choose an MSP that offers flexibility in their service agreements. Avoid long-term contracts and opt for providers who can tailor their services to your specific needs. They should be able to provide services on a project basis or offer a la carte options, allowing you to select only the services you require.
9. Skills & Certifications
Ensure that the MSP has a skilled team of certified IT experts with expertise relevant to your business’s technological requirements. Look for certifications in areas such as cybersecurity and other essential IT fields, as this demonstrates their ability to overcome IT implementation challenges efficiently.
10. System/Infrastructure Compatibility
Verify whether the MSP has expertise in managing your business’s applications, IT infrastructure, and other IT assets. They should possess in-depth knowledge of your systems, including configuration and troubleshooting, to provide effective support. Additionally, confirm that their tools and systems are compatible with your IT environment, ensuring smooth integration and operation.
11. Uptime/Issue Response Guarantee
The MSP should offer uptime guarantees and clearly define issue response times in the service level agreement (SLA). This enables you to measure their performance and hold them accountable. Some MSPs also provide reports showing compliance with the SLA, such as the number of tickets closed, and time taken to resolve them.
Conclusion
Selecting the right managed IT services provider is a critical decision that can significantly impact your business’s success. By following this checklist, you can thoroughly evaluate potential MSPs and ensure they align with your specific needs and requirements.
By carefully considering the factors discussed, you can choose an MSP that will be a valuable partner, enhancing the efficiency, security, and productivity of your IT systems. With the right MSP by your side, you can focus on core business operations, confident in the knowledge that your IT infrastructure is in capable hands. It’s time to make an informed decision and forge a partnership that will drive your business forward into the future. Good luck!
Blucando
With our expertise and dedication, Blucando ensures the seamless functioning of your IT systems, data security, and the productivity of your staff. Our responsive helpdesk promptly resolves technical issues, while our strategic partnerships with top vendors guarantee access to the latest technologies and cost-saving benefits.
With Blucando, you can experience contract flexibility tailored to your specific requirements, coupled with a skilled team of certified IT professionals who possess deep knowledge in various IT fields. Partnering with us means enjoying reliable system and infrastructure management, along with uptime guarantees and quick issue response times. Take your business to new heights with our exceptional MSP services and let them empower your IT infrastructure while you focus on driving success. Contact us today!
