What You Should Do Before Switching to a New MSP Environment
Have you decided it’s time to consider a new managed service provider (MSP)? Whether you’re at the end of the contract or are unsatisfied with the services offered, switching to a different MSP model can seem stressful. Here are some tips to consider before making the change.
What To Consider Before Changing Your Service Provider
Are you unsatisfied with your current provider but unsure if switching to a new MSP environment is right for your business? Here are some elements to consider before changing your service provider:
Evaluate Your Current Information Technology Provider
The first thing to do before considering a switch is to perform a full evaluation of your current MSP. This includes inspecting their services, determining how rapidly they solve issues, what they’re good at, and in which areas they need to improve. Addressing these concerns plays a major role in deciding if you need to seek a new IT company.
Assess Your Current Contract
This is an especially critical task if you plan on ending a business relationship early. Make sure you understand the legal standards of the contract’s termination requirement. Many providers include specific terms of when you can terminate the partnership. Also, make sure you fully understand any potential legal consequences of switching IT companies. Protecting yourself and your business minimizes unwanted surprises.
Know Your Infrastructure
Studying your current infrastructure helps alert you and your internal team to any potential problems that might occur when switching. Make sure you understand what software runs your network and your infrastructure’s unique needs. Also, evaluate your company’s cybersecurity network. Making sure your critical data is protected should continue to be a top priority.
Create Long-Term Goals
What do you want from your new MSP environment? Understanding the long-term goals of your business and technology infrastructure helps determine if it’s time to make a change. Communicating your expectations clearly will make the switch easier.
Commit To the Change
You’ve done the due diligence and determined the current and future needs of your business; now it’s time to make your decision. If you’re committed to making a change, be sure to tell your current provider and begin researching new partners.
What to Do When Switching to a New MSP Business Model
So you’ve decided to seek a new MSP experience—now what? Here are some tips for finding the right provider for your business.
Research Other Managed IT Service Providers
An excellent research starting point is the internet. Browse the websites of potential MSPs and gather information about the services they provide. A well-established provider should have a comprehensive site that details everything they offer. Also, make sure to avoid companies that offer vague information about their solutions; a professional technology business should be proud of what they offer and provide specific information.
Notify Your Current Provider
Break-ups aren’t fun, but making sure it’s conducted professionally is important. Give your current provider plenty of advanced notice that you’re switching. Also, check with your outgoing partner to verify you’re up to date on all payments. This helps end the relationship on favorable terms and keeps the door open for future interactions.
Choose a New Provider
You’ve already done some preliminary online research, now it’s time to really dig deep. Ask potential new providers for references. Asking their current partners about their experience also offers valuable insight into what you’ll receive. Make sure they’re updated on the latest compliance and regulatory needs your company needs. You don’t want to make the same mistake twice, so verifying their service quality is critical.
Develop a Timeline
Switching to a new MSP environment isn’t a quick process. Work with your new provider to develop a timeline and ask how your technology needs will be handled during the transition. Minimizing downtime is critical for maintaining daily operations, so make sure any potential issues are accounted for.
Alert Your Employees
Despite the best laid plans, problems can sometimes develop. Tell your employees about the switch so they can be prepared for potential disruptions. Now that you’ve picked your new MSP environment, developed a timeline, and alerted your team, it’s time to start the switch!
Ready to start moving your MSP environment to a new company? Contact First Class Connection today to see how our team offers the best experience.
Enhance Your MSP Experience With First Class Connection
Utilizing the right MSP environment is critical for running a successful business. First Class Connection understands that keeping up with technology is difficult and takes pride in making sure our clients are up to date with the latest developments by providing the following services:
Unified Communications
The modern workforce is remote, and businesses must adapt to stay competitive. Our unified communications services combine all channels into one collaborative solution. We work with clients to make sure their employees are able to effectively communicate from anywhere.
Telecom Services
Reliable communication is the foundation of a successful company. First Class Connection’s telecom services build and maintain a communication infrastructure that keeps your employees connected.
Managed Security
Monitoring, detecting, and responding to threats is difficult for many companies to handle in-house. We offer managed security services that simplify your IT operations and protect your valuable infrastructure.
First Class Connection: Providing Valuable IT Solutions Since 2014
The First Class Connection team understands companies’ challenges when building and managing their IT infrastructure. This is why we go above and beyond to make sure you receive the tools you need to succeed. Our experts help you focus on your business goals by maintaining a commitment to delivering continuous education and enhanced services to our clients. Contact First Class Connection today if you’re looking to move your MSP environment.