4 Tips for Choosing the Right Managed IT Services Partner

We know that finding a managed IT services (MSP) partner can be difficult. Without a clear idea about what separates an outstanding MSP from an average one, many businesses end up partnering with a lackluster firm that fails to deliver on their promises or even harms their productivity and efficiency.

Here are a few useful guidelines to help you find the right IT partner.

Tip #1 - They Know That Onsite Engineers Aren't The Right Solution

Some companies feel their IT services provider should send an engineer to work with them permanently on-site. This “staff augmentation” model was quite popular in the past, but qualified MSPs have come to realize this is an inefficient way to deliver IT service, which often leads to unintended problems. Here are a few reasons why a qualified MSP will recommend against positioning their techs onsite full time.

• An engineer that is sent to your location full-time is an employee of the MSP - or not? This ambiguity hampers smooth communication, creates confusion, and often leads to turnover. That means finding a new tech and bringing them up to speed on your infrastructure, which wastes time.
• No single tech can do everything. If an onsite tech support person can't perform a critical task, then you'll have to wait for your technology partner to send someone else. On the other hand, a tech who doesn't have enough to do or feels unchallenged is likely to seek new avenues for career advancement, leading to increased turnover.
• Did you know that Techmedics can perform about 90% of your network maintenance and management remotely? The truth is that advancements in technology have made placing engineers onsite virtually obsolete. When a serious issue occurs, your MSP should be there as soon as possible, but for day-to-day issues it's simply not necessary for most organizations.

Tip #2 - They Have a Full Team of IT Specialists

The IT field is large, with specialized skills for network maintenance, server maintenance, cybersecurity, mobile device management, Cloud Computing, and more. There’s no way a single IT staffer can possess the insight and expertise needed to provide optimal service in each of those areas.

To determine if an MSP is the right pick for you, ask them about their bench of IT talent. Do they have specialists in each of the areas that you’ll need help in? In addition to impressive resumes, check to see if they have a track-record of helping companies like yours address their critical IT and technology issues. Better yet, do they have testimonials that speak to their ability to add real business value?

One of the greatest benefits of hiring an MSP is the access to a team of engineers that vary in skill levels, experience, and certifications. Hiring internally for these specializations can be challenging and you’ll find that salary can vary greatly. Above, we illustrate the difference between hiring a team like Techmedics, versus hiring one internal IT staffer.

To take it a step further, IT is an industry with little to no regulation. Many other industries have strict regulations when it comes to data, privacy, and cybersecurity. However, MSPs are not required to achieve any government issued standard or compliance to work with businesses. How do you verify credentials and background of the IT staffer or MSP you are looking to hire? It’s important to look for a company that provides extensive background checks on their engineers, like we do at Techmedics. Unfortunately, there are individuals and businesses made up of engineers that do not have the right qualifications to provide support for a business environment. We advise you do your due diligence to make sure that you are getting what you pay for.

Tip #3 - They Can Demonstrate Thought Leadership

Do you have a clear idea how technology can help your business make money? When technology is aligned with your business goals, it can be a very effective way to gain a competitive edge. But, without a sound technology strategy, it could just as likely end up wasting time and money.

Ensure the MSP you’re interviewing has a dedicated virtual chief information officer (vCIO) team, with decades of experience helping businesses guide their technology investment. Ask to see a sample IT roadmap that helped a business make the most of its technology.
You’ll also want to inquire about their expertise with both established technologies like Cloud Computing, and newer ones like Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Although these new concepts haven’t made a mainstream impact yet, they’re quickly reaching maturity. You’ll want a partner that can help position you to capitalize on these major new trends.

Tip #4 - They Have the Best Tools Available

All MSPs will have remote monitoring and management (RMM) software to help keep a watchful eye on your network. A truly exceptional MSP will have a toolkit of specialized software to go beyond these basic functions and help clients achieve the greatest possible benefit. Does your potential technology partner have the best-in-class tools and processes for each of the following areas?

• PSA or Ticketing Software
• Network Management
• Asset Lifecycle Management
• Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity
• Mobility Management
• Remote Monitoring & Maintenance (RMM)
• Documentation
• Assessment & Compliance
• Identity & Access Management
• Cybersecurity Tools

Techmedics - Trusted IT Services Partner for Over 20 Years

The IT services field is going through a phase of great consolidation, as smaller operations are purchased by larger ones, and low-value providers are driven out by fierce competition. Don’t choose a managed IT services provider who won’t exist next year. Instead, choose a trusted named in the technology services field that’s been helping companies across Los Angeles for over 20 years, like Techmedics.

If you have questions about our MSP services, or would like to talk to us about your technology service needs, contact us at info@techmedics.com or 877-832-4611. Our helpful staff loves helping businesses make the most of their technology.

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