Signs It’s Time to Switch Managed Service Providers
Organizations that use a managed services provider (MSP) have access to a diverse team of IT experts. They can count on proactive support, and their in-house resources have more time to work on mission-critical projects. The right partnership can also lead to cost savings and easier budgeting.
However, not every company that’s relying on an MSP is experiencing all the benefits that should come from working with a team of skilled IT experts. The fact is, not all providers are equal. You may need to consider switching IT service providers if you aren’t getting true value from the relationship. Here are four signs it’s time to consider making the switch.
You can’t get ahold of your MSP quickly
One of the key advantages of working with an MSP in the first place is saving time. But if you can’t get in contact with your MSP or it takes days for them to get back to you, you’re losing productivity and efficiency. With third-party IT support, your employees should be able to access an expert right away. This can help with everything from boosting productivity to minimizing downtime.
If you’re paying for MSP services but still losing time waiting for help resolving IT issues, switching IT service providers may be a smart move. Ideally, your provider offers 24/7 remote monitoring and a fast help desk resolution.
Your MSP doesn’t have a strategy
Maintaining a robust IT infrastructure entails more than just patch management, network monitoring, and other standard tasks. To remain competitive, your organization should be using an IT strategy that supports your overall business goals.
For example, is your IT budget set up to address increasing cybersecurity concerns, outdated infrastructure problems, and employee growth? These are the three factors companies were focusing on in 2020. What IT projects is your company working on to increase efficiencies and boost revenue? What are your plans for cloud migration and virtualization?
A good managed service provider will also serve as your expert IT consultant, helping to make sure your IT is set up to grow with your company.
Your contract isn’t being fulfilled
Your MSP may promise the world with fast response times, expert support, well-maintained networks, and more. But, if your provider doesn’t have a team of highly qualified experts or lacks the tools or resources to deliver quality IT help, those promises may fall short of your original expectations.
Your service level agreement should include specific metrics. If these aren’t being met, that’s a definite sign it’s time to consider switching IT service providers. That’s not the only indicator there’s a problem. If your MSP isn’t helping your company innovate or if you don’t have total peace of mind that your infrastructure is ready to evolve with your business, it’s time to find a new partner.
You are not getting what you need
Costs aside, are you getting what you need from your provider? You don’t know what you don’t know and your MSP should be discussing new solutions and better ways of doing things. Are they reviewing security processes and helping your team be productive? What about offering new ideas that help your business during your live, quarterly business reviews or QBR’s?
Are they even doing QBR’s?
Switching IT service providers is in your company’s best interests if it’s not clear you’re gaining from the relationship. An MSP should serve as an invaluable partner that enables your employees to work more effectively and support business growth. Experience empowered IT with help from KME – contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you.
