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Every modern business relies on technology. However, the complexity and ever-evolving nature of digital software and networks means that companies of all sizes often prefer to have an expert keep their systems safe and efficient, rather than handling their technology needs themselves. This is the role of a managed service provider, or MSP. From infrastructure to updates, these companies are equipped to handle a range of needs for businesses of every shape and size. That said, choosing the right managed service provider for your business can be quite an undertaking. This article will clue you in on the major types of MSPs, and what to look for in a provider.

What Does a Managed Service Provider Actually Do?

Many think of an MSP as something like an in-house IT team that responds to problems with misbehaving laptops or defective printers. Well, that might be part of the story, but a managed service provider’s roles and responsibilities usually extend well beyond simple repairs and troubleshooting.

A professional MSP is a third party that delivers a range of services related to network, security, infrastructure, etc. to clients, both on-site and off. They can provide these services alone, or work in conjunction with other providers and the client’s existing set-up. An MSP will tailor its solutions to fit the specific needs and size of a business, so there can be significant variation within the role they play.

The Major Types of MSP and What They Do

Depending on the business focus and expertise of the MSP itself, every solution will vary in some way. This variety is one of the reasons that the managed services sector has grown into a $24.68 billion industry.

One business may simply be looking to add cloud support for their off-site workers, while others might want comprehensive network and application security measures put in place for all workers. For this reason, managed service providers excel at being flexible.

A managed service provider not only improves efficiency through regular monitoring and preventative maintenance, but their expertise also provides assurance and peace of mind. Let’s look at some of the major types of MSP solutions available today. Not every provider offers all solutions, and some might blend several into a single service offering.

• IT Services – Some MSPs take on the role of a resident IT expert, on hand to sort out whatever hardware and software issues you may experience. This can be on-site (in the form of a dedicated team) or via off-site monitoring. IT MSPs maintain your machines, keep software updated, and fix breakdowns as and when they occur.
• Security – Network and device security are paramount in today’s business landscape. Managed service providers dealing with cybersecurity will analyze the business and, based on their findings, take the proper precautions to keep everything safe. This can be in the form of constant monitoring, access control, installing firewalls and antivirus, or conducting in-house staff training. In short, they’ll do whatever it takes to keep you safe.
• Print Services – Printers are the workhorse of any business and need plenty of attention to keep running smoothly. Basic print services include managing supplies of ink and paper, and maintaining and repairing printers and copiers. But managed print providers can also provide more systematic services like regular audits and biometric access controls.
• Data Backup and Recovery – Just because data is digital doesn’t mean it’s risk free. Human error and cyberattacks can spell disaster for the unprepared. MSP backup services create recovery options for businesses, and store their data off-site (or on the cloud) to keep it safe. They may also draft disaster recovery plans and implement office fail-safes to prevent data loss.
• Cloud Services – The post-pandemic world has increasingly come to rely on cloud computing. Maintaining cloud infrastructure and connected devices is thus an important process, and a service that many MSPs offer. They’ll keep your data compliant and accessible, while ensuring that your cloud infrastructure is both sound and scalable.
• Data Analytics – Some MSPs can produce data about your data. They use analytics to monitor raw data in many forms, and convert it into practical forms that can help with important decision making, be that about the market or your customers.

What Should You Look For in a Managed Service Provider?

Now you know about the kinds of services offered by MSPs, how do you actually settle on one? Here are a few factors to help make your choice a little easier:

• Current Setup – Assess where your business is currently and where you want it to be in the future. You probably already have different IT systems in place, and your equipment might range from cutting edge to a bit long in the tooth. You’ll want an MSP that can accommodate your setup, address your specific problems, and help you reach your goals – all while staying up-to-date and compliant.
• A Solid Service Portfolio – Choose an MSP that offers the range of services that your business needs now and will potentially need in the future. The more of those services that they offer the better.
• Experience – As with any business partner, the number of years they’ve been in the game and the quality of their partners and clients can be a strong indicator of an MSPs capabilities. Look for reviews of a provider online and delve into their particular strengths and past successes to assess their suitability. Don’t be afraid to ask for case studies.
• Response Times – Managed Service Providers handle important systems and priceless data. Should something go wrong, you need to know how long it’ll typically take your MSP to respond. Ask about the average response time when looking for a quote.
• Data Compliance – All forms of data organization need to comply with regulatory standards like the HIPAA, or face hefty fines. Registration with official compliance bodies is an extra seal of approval for an MSP’s reputation.
• Scalability – Choose an MSP that can scale its IT offerings to grow (or shrink) as your business’s needs change.
• Smooth Onboarding – When choosing your first MSP or switching to a new one, the migration and implementation of your systems should be as smooth as possible. Examine the proposed setup process that an MSP offers, and make sure you’re comfortable with the impact it’ll have on your business.

Choose the Best Partner for the Job

The right MSP isn’t necessarily the one with the most capabilities, but the one that has the best solutions for your business’s current and future needs. Stargel has been serving the Houston area for well over 30 years and offers a wide range of office solutions to meet your needs, no matter the task. Allow us to provide you with the best service possible.