How to Compare MSP Companies

So, you’re already on your way, evaluating MSP companies and trying to find the best one for your organization.  When every second counts and downtime can translate into significant losses, having reliable IT infrastructure and support is critical to your company’s success. 

However, managing, maintaining and securing your IT environment can take time and effort, especially for businesses with limited resources and expertise. That’s where managed service providers (MSPs) come in, offering a lifeline to organizations seeking to streamline their IT operations while focusing on core business activities.

With a plethora of MSP companies vying for your attention, how do you choose the right one that aligns with your business goals and IT needs? 

Let’s discuss 13 key criteria you should consider when evaluating MSPs to ensure you make an informed decision.

1. Scalability

As your business evolves, so should your IT infrastructure. When comparing MSP companies, look for an MSP capable of scaling alongside your growth, offering flexible solutions that seamlessly integrate with your evolving needs and processes.

2. Proactive Approach

Beyond mere maintenance, opt for an MSP that adopts a proactive approach to IT management. They should regularly evaluate your infrastructure, identify vulnerabilities and implement strategies to enhance performance, efficiency and security, ultimately saving your business time and money in the long run.

Want to take a proactive cybersecurity approach in your organization? Check out our cybersecurity awareness training.

3. Visibility and Accessibility

Transparency is key to any successful partnership. Ensure your MSP provides real-time access to the health and efficiency of your IT system while consolidating services into a centralized platform for easy accessibility and monitoring.

4. Cloud Services

With the increasing adoption of cloud-based technologies, ensure your MSP offers expertise in managing hybrid cloud environments and provides consultation and sourcing options for private cloud infrastructure, catering to your specific needs and preferences.

5. Team and Location

Clarify whether the MSP employs full-time employees or contractors and verify the locations from which they access your systems. You may want to prioritize localized support that can serve you at your workplace.

6. Alignment With Your Business Model

A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t cut it in today’s business world. Partner with an MSP that understands your unique business model, goals and industry best practices, tailoring their services to align seamlessly with your organizational objectives.

7. Commitment to Innovation

Future-proof your IT operations by collaborating with an MSP committed to innovation, continuously evolving to meet the evolving needs of your business and implementing cutting-edge solutions that drive growth and competitiveness.

8. Skill and Experience

MSP companies should provide more than a simple service for you. Look beyond basic maintenance capabilities and seek a provider with a diverse skill set encompassing database management, security protocols, cloud technologies and cross-platform integration. 

Prioritize MSPs with a proven track record of serving businesses in your industry, showcasing their expertise and understanding of your specific needs.

9. Compliance and Regulation

Stay ahead of regulatory requirements by partnering with an MSP equipped with qualified staff to assist in compliance efforts, establishing robust governance, controls and artifacts to ensure your business remains compliant with industry standards.

10. Financial Stability

Entrust your IT infrastructure to an MSP with a proven track record of financial stability and reliability, backed by a history of delivering exceptional services and garnering positive reviews from satisfied clients.

11. References and Testimonials

Don’t just take their word for it; seek feedback from current and former clients to gauge the MSP’s performance, reliability and customer satisfaction levels. These “word of mouth” referrals provide valuable insights into their capabilities and service quality.

12. Secure Environment

Security is paramount in safeguarding your valuable data and assets. Choose an MSP well-versed in the latest cybersecurity trends and frameworks, offering robust protection against evolving cyber threats while ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

Comparing MSP Companies Doesn’t Have to Be Difficult

Choosing the right MSP is a critical decision that can significantly impact your business’s efficiency, security and growth trajectory. By carefully evaluating MSPs based on the criteria above and conducting thorough due diligence, you can forge a mutually beneficial partnership that empowers your business to thrive. 

The right MSP is a strategic ally invested in your success, and if they’re not, then they’re not the right MSP for you.

If you’re looking for an MSP with a proven track record and want to add us as a potential managed service provider option, contact us or book a meeting.