When it comes to hiring a Managed Service Provider (MSP), there are certain mistakes that business owners should be aware of and actively avoid. Hiring the wrong MSP could lead to disastrous results, such as unmet expectations, wasted time and resources, or even security risks.
While it’s never easy to make the right decision when choosing an MSP, understanding the common pitfalls to watch out for can help you choose the right provider and ensure a successful partnership.
6 Pitfalls to be Aware of When Hiring Managed Service Provider
Not Researching:
Avoid making the mistake of not doing your due diligence as it can result in an unsatisfactory experience and even put your business at risk. Researching potential managed service providers should include everything from reading customer reviews to understanding their pricing structure.
The most important step is to make sure they are certified and experienced in the role. Don’t be afraid to ask questions such as how long they have offered this service, what their qualifications are or who their previous clients have been.
A good provider will also have certifications that demonstrate their knowledge base and expertise within this field. Additionally, inquire about the types of technology they use so you can be sure that these tools are compatible with your own system requirements and processes.
Not Understanding the Scope of Services:
Not understanding the complete set of services provided by your potential service provider can lead to costly mistakes that could have been avoided with a proper understanding from the beginning.
The most common mistake businesses make when hiring your service provider is not taking into consideration the full scope of their services. This may include tasks such as data backup, server maintenance, and system monitoring.
All these factors should be discussed prior to signing any contracts so that you can be sure that all elements are covered and you are getting what you expect from the service provider.
Not Asking for References:
References allow you to get an insight into the MSP’s previous work and how they handled customer service and other issues. A reputable MSP will be happy to provide references from current or past customers who can vouch for their services and capabilities.
These references can be invaluable as they allow you to ask specific questions about their experience with the MSP, such as the quality of service provided, communication practices, response times, and overall satisfaction level with their choice of provider.
Neglecting Security Considerations:
It is important not to neglect security considerations when selecting a service provider. Failing to account for the security of your data can have disastrous consequences and cause costly damage to your business.
They are going to have complete access to all of your company’s sensitive data, making it vital that they maintain the highest standards in their security protocols.
It is important that businesses thoroughly investigate potential providers prior to signing any agreement, paying special attention to the measures they take in order to protect against cyber threats such as viruses and malware, and how they plan on safeguarding confidential information from unauthorized access.
Additionally, businesses should ensure that their provider carries appropriate insurance which covers any data breaches or losses caused by negligence or malicious activities by third parties.
Focusing Too Much on Price:
The most important criteria for selecting a service provider should focus on quality and reliability rather than price alone. It’s critical for businesses to ensure they have access to qualified professionals who will be able to manage their projects with efficiency and effectiveness.
Poorly chosen providers can cause delays in project completion which leads to higher costs and missed deadlines. Additionally, some providers may not have the necessary resources or expertise needed for the task at hand, resulting in subpar results that harm your company’s reputation.
Conclusion
Finding the right managed service provider is a critical part of running any business. It’s important to take your time, do your research, and ask the right questions when hiring an MSP.
Avoiding those common mistakes will help you get the most out of your relationship with an MSP and ensure that you’re getting the best services for your company.
