Choosing an MSP
Choosing a Managed Service Provider (MSP) for your organization is a big decision. You want a provider who you can rely on, someone who will listen to your concerns and who understands your needs. You aren’t just choosing a provider; you’re looking for a partner who will help you reach your goals. We’ve compiled a list of questions you should ask a potential MSP, so you can get the right conversations started in order to make an informed decision.
1. What experience do you have?
It’s important to choose an MSP who has experience working within your industry and with organizations similar in size to your own. Each industry comes with its own challenges and complexities, especially concerning compliance and security. Experienced managed service providers will already have a good understanding of your industry and the regulations within that industry. It’s also a good idea to ask for a list of customer references that you can contact.
2. How do you charge for your services?
While many MSPs claim to charge a flat monthly fee, this doesn’t always end up being the case. Be sure to ask the provider what is included in the monthly fee and what isn’t included. There are service providers who offer a true predictable monthly cost, so if this is an important aspect for you, keep looking until you find one!
3. How do you deliver your services?
When you’re choosing a provider, it’s important to know exactly who you’ll be working with and what services you can expect to receive. Can the MSP provide onsite support? What are their response and resolution times? Do they offer 24×7 emergency support? Is the help desk U.S.-based and internal, or is it outsourced? Some MSPs outsource their services to another company or country, while others keep their support in-house. It may not make a difference to you either way, but this is something you probably want to know before signing a contract.
4. What certifications and accreditation do you have?
You want to ensure that the MSP you choose has the level of skill and expertise needed to support you. Ask the provider who they partner with for their services and what level of partnership they have with them. Having security certifications and other certifications directly related to the services you need is essential.
5. Do you customize your approach for each client?
It’s important to ask if the managed service provider uses a one-size-fits-all approach to IT or if they tailor their solutions to the specific needs of their customers. Each organization is unique, so each approach should be different. Don’t settle for less than what your organization deserves.
RTI: A Trusted Managed Service Provider
RTI is an MSP that goes above and beyond to meet your technology needs. As your technology partner, we treat your business like it’s our own, learning the ins and outs of your organization, as well as your needs and goals. We create a customized solution that fits your budget and your requirements. Our proactive, preventative solutions will keep your network running efficiently and securely. Learn more about our managed services and what sets us apart.
Date Posted: 5/16/18
Date Last Updated: 6/4/19
By: RTI Marketing Team
Riverside Technologies, Inc. (RTI) specializes in managed services, IT hardware, warehouse services, and technology deployment.
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