An MSP will offer its customers a suite of managed services, which can include things like data backup and recovery, cloud migration, and email security. It may also involve large, complex projects like IT modernization and digital transformation.
Learn How to Get the Most Benefits from Working with a Cloud MSP
A managed service provider (MSP) is a type of IT service provider that offers IT-related services delivered to organizations who need additional resources to manage, monitor, and continuously improve their IT environments. As more and more businesses move to the cloud, the need for experienced MSPs is growing. The MSP provides these services to its customers on a subscription basis. Typically, an MSP will offer its customers a suite of managed services, which can include things like data backup and recovery, cloud migration, and email security. It may also involve large, complex projects like IT modernization and digital transformation.
An experienced MSP will have a deep understanding of public cloud platforms and can help to ensure that your data is migrated properly. They can also provide ongoing support and maintenance, helping to keep your environment running smoothly. MSPs may also offer Professional Services (or Pro-Serve) to support projects or supplement staff.
One of the main benefits of using an MSP is that it can help to free up your internal IT team’s time so they can focus on other projects. Additionally, an MSP can often offer specialized knowledge in terms of IT infrastructure management and best practices.
When it comes to cloud migrations specifically, an MSP can be especially beneficial. MSPs can help organizations migrate to cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP) making the transition smoother and less disruptive. They can handle all aspects of your cloud migration, from assessment and planning to execution and post-migration support. Because MSPs have migrated hundreds—and sometimes thousands—of clients to the public cloud, they are often able to identify common barriers or migration issues well in advance.
Finding a Partner You Can Trust
When entrusting your business to a managed service provider, you want to be sure that they will treat your data and systems with the utmost care. After all, managed services are designed to take on complex IT tasks so that you can focus on running your business. But how can you be sure that you’re choosing a provider who will meet your needs?
The MSP market includes everyone from small IT consulting firms to large System Integrators (SIs) and international Global Systems Integrators (GSIs). Who you choose will depend on your goals as an organization.
Remember when choosing an MSP that the ultimate goal is for your managed service provider to operate as an extension of your team.
You may want to start with customer service. How do they respond to questions and concerns? Do they seem knowledgeable and helpful? Does the MSP take an ownership perspective when problems arise and work to find solutions?
Next, ask about their experience with cloud migration. If you’re considering moving to the cloud, you want to be sure that your provider has the experience and expertise to make the transition smooth and successful. Managed services providers should be able to provide you with a detailed plan for migrating your data and systems to the cloud. They should also be able to address any unique business challenges you have.
Finally, ask for references. Talk to other businesses who have used the managed service provider’s services. Find out if they were satisfied with the results. With a little research, you can be sure that you’re choosing a managed service provider who will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
