Computer repair service has now evolved from the break it-fix it model to the new managed IT services. Managed IT services, also known as managed service providers (MSPs), are IT support companies offering subscription-based services for ongoing tech management. They are a far cry from providers who typically provide repair and maintenance services on an as-needed basis.
Managed IT services providers are popping up everywhere, thanks to the demand for the convenience they offer to business clients who need top-notch IT support services. But how does one spot a good managed service provider from the rest? Here are some indicators that should help you in finding the best provider for your needs.
Skill Sets that Match Your Needs
Quality managed IT service providers must be able to handle a variety of business functions such as network, server, backups, security, and payroll. They must have a wide range of technical skillsets for such a vast number of technical work and IT upkeep.
Research the range of services that managed IT service providers are offering. You can estimate the range of their skill sets by looking at the business functions that they can cater to.
Ensure that the provider youll choose has skills that match your companys immediate IT infrastructure needs. Theres no use for an MSP to have several IT skills but doesnt have that one which can address the most pressing needs of your company.
Offers Clear Backups and Disaster Recovery Strategies
An IT disaster recovery strategy is a crucial part of running a business. Its because modern businesses are almost entirely reliant on data to run smoothly. However, there are lots of disasters that can totally harm your entire IT infrastructure, including the following:
Extreme weather conditions
Massive hardware failures
Cyberattacks
Natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes
Datacenter thefts and fires
Good MSPs usually offer package deals with backups and disaster recovery strategies to help you safeguard your entire IT infrastructure and databases. Evaluate your chosen MSPs plan and see if it is aligned with your own IT departments disaster recovery plans. Youll likely see things such as cloud-based backups and recovery, as well as providers that offer fully-configured data centers that serve as hot sites for data recovery.
Stable MSPs with Reasonable Package Deals
Reputable MSPs are hard to come by, as lots of providers keep sprouting around due to their high demand nowadays. But you can spot legitimate ones through extensive research. Factors you need to know about an MSP include:
Length of time in the MSP business
Business model used
Reviews from past and existing clients
Compliance with the latest ITIL standards
Be wary of MSPs offering too-good-to-be-true deals at low costs. Its better to find a computer support MSP offering reasonably-priced packages which include daily IT operations, backups, and disaster recovery strategies.
Conclusion
Managed IT Service Providers (MSPs) can help your existing IT department in safeguarding your databases and IT infrastructure. They can perform IT tasks covering a wide range of business functions. They can also assist in implementing backups and disaster recovery strategies as needed.
You can select a reputable provider based on the following criteria:
Has been in the business for years
Has good reviews from past and present customers
ITIL standard compliant
Displays wide ranges of skill set to suit your IT business needs
Offers a straightforward backup and disaster recovery strategy
Provides quality package deals at reasonable costs
With proper research and inquiry, you can certainly find the computer support and managed IT service provider that can work well for your IT needs.
