Technology and IT leaders are becoming cornerstones of their companies’ business strategies. As the technology industry is cresting a wave of hype — intelligent robots, digital transformation, generative AI — tools and software once perceived as things of the future have crystallized into disciplines and processes many organizations now use.
IT issues will crop up, no matter what kind of business you run, but facing technology challenges isn’t just about replacing machines or upgrading software. Increasing complexity without proper management can give your IT team major headaches and even introduce new opportunities for security threats.
With a managed IT services provider (MSP), you can handle all these issues and implement the latest technology smoothly with little to no downtime.
But, what if you already have one and are still dealing with recurrent problems?
Here are some telltale signs that it’s time to find a new provider:
Your MSP does not have 24/7/365 monitoring
Most of your employees probably work a regular 9-to-5 shift, but your network and data never sleep. This is why your MSP must be working around the clock, too. They should have the proper combination of remote and on-site personnel available at all times of the year to ensure proactive monitoring services.
Your MSP does not provide data backup
Any business is good as dead without its data. How long can your business survive if your data is lost, damaged, or compromised? With strict regulations like the CMMC 2.0, NIST, HIPAA, or DFARS, your MSP should have ironclad data protection and backup plans in place for you. Failure to protect your data can lead to lawsuits from your clients, loss of trust for your business, and massive fines from government agencies.
Your MSP has slow response times
Organizations can be faced with internet outages and server crashes. Your MSP should get on it immediately when such an event occurs. If they take too long to respond, you lose money and suffer from productivity dips; and when these issues are left unaddressed, you face possible reputational damage.
Weak project management skills
The right MSP will efficiently and seamlessly manage projects, which keeps stakeholders informed of significant updates and provides transparency to your team. If communication is inconsistent and not meeting expectations, your current MSP’s project management team only adds stress to your day-to-day. With the rapid changes in technologies and processes, you’ll need a team you can rely on for clear and timely communications.
Your MSP’s strategic guidance sounds more like a sales pitch
Today, your MSP should be able to double up as a virtual CIO. Many companies have essential knowledge of enterprise IT systems and outsource their IT to an MSP. However, due to bad business practices, many MSPs take advantage and milk their clients. If you think you’re stuck with unnecessary expensive upgrades to a software you hardly use, your MSP might have talked you into something you don't need. Ensure the MSP you choose fully assesses your IT environment before trying to sell you on all the bells and whistles.
You’ve outgrown your MSP
Your current MSP might struggle to provide you with the best support, despite their best efforts. This doesn’t immediately mean that it’s their fault. Sometimes, it could be that your company has outgrown your MSP. Perhaps, they don’t have the manpower or access to the latest technology your business requires to sustain your growth. Working with an MSP designed to meet the needs of a business your size is critical to a successful partnership.
Your MSP must be able to provide you with cutting-edge, innovative solutions. Additionally, leading MSPs enable clients' business growth and ultimately reduce IT complexities. If you think your current MSP no longer delivers on its promises, it’s best to move forward to one that will keep up with your needs and the ever-changing IT landscape. We take IT personally and go beyond results. Call us today to learn more about working with Charles IT.
Editor's Note: This blog was updated on 8/9/2023 for accuracy and helpfulness.
