MSP stands for Managed Service Provider. It refers to companies that provide managed IT services for an organization. Rather than just making a list of IT services and products available to a company, a managed IT approach is tailored to a company’s specific needs. Under a managed service approach, the IT provider seeks to proactively oversee and maintain a company’s technology needs endeavoring to keep tech systems running smoothly, efficiently, and securely.
An MSP can function as either a completely independent management resource, acting as a company’s IT department, or it can work with a company’s IT managers and staff to supplement, guide, and support their current efforts.
Some MSPs offer a full menu of comprehensive IT services and others may specialize in a particular area such as cloud computing, remote monitoring, or cybersecurity.
Some MSPs provide technology support to a broad range of businesses, working to understand individual business needs, and tailoring their approach accordingly. Other MSPs specialize in a particular industry such as healthcare, financial, real estate, legal firms, etc.
The most prevalent alternative to an MSP model is the “Break/Fix” model, whereby a company contacts an IT service provider only when there is a problem or something needs to be repaired, much like you would call a plumber when you have a broken pipe.
What services do MSPs typically provide?
• Network Management: Mapping, monitoring and maintaining network performance.
• Help Desk Support: Providing some means, usually a ticketing or call-in system, whereby users can request technical assistance and receive help resolving IT-related issues.
• Cybersecurity: Providing protection for network systems and data from cyber threats such as ransomware, viruses, malware, phishing, hacking, and so on.
• Data Backup and Recovery: Archiving data in a secure environment , and ensuring data is securely backed up and available in case of loss.
• Cloud Services: Managing cloud-related applications and platforms.
• Software and Hardware Management: Software license renewal and management, patching, and hardware procurement.
• IT Consulting: A resource for strategic advice, budgeting, and business guidance.
• Vendor Management: Works with service vendors to resolve issues and acquire services.
How are MSPs compensated?
MSPs typically operate under some sort of contract arrangement under which clients are invoiced on a monthly or annual basis. Pricing structures are typically flexible and are based on specific client needs. Pricing structures can include per-user, per-user device, devices in general, components of the infrastructure, or environments such as office vs. manufacturing.
What are the benefits of using an MSP?
• It’s Proactive: Efforts seek to keep systems running efficiently and prevent downtime vs. reacting to problems.
• Cost savings: Utilizing an MSP is more cost-efficient than staffing in-house. In addition, MSPs most often have access to reduced vendor costs that are not available to most companies.
• Expertise: Brings access to a broader range of knowledge, experience, and technical solutions.
• Increased focus: Allow a company to increase attention on its core business activities.
• Flexibility and Scalability: Provides a pathway by which a company can productively respond to changing needs, staff upsizing and downsizing, and new developments in technology.
For more information about MSPs and how they can benefit your business be sure to check out wedoIT at wedoIT.co or call 844-635-5925.