[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
MSPs (Managed Service Providers) had a tough time during the pandemic. As a result, many MSPs sold out or merged with tech companies that provide custom programming, VoIP telephones, or printer\/copier support and service. Many small IT owners felt the pinch of supply chain shortages and customer demands.\u201d Unfortunatly, it is still happening. This article explains what you can expect when your MSP provider gets purchased and if it is good or bad for your<\/em><\/strong> company.<\/p>\n When an IT support provider gets acquired, they always claim you will only experience positive changes. They boast about more services, breadth, depth, and national recognition awards. But behind the scenes, they are re-arranging how services are delivered and by whom. Those are the changes that should be concerning.<\/p>\n Most companies take the \u201cdo no harm\u201d approach during the first year of acquisition. This approach suggests taking the time to review the current technologies, processes, people, and cultures before deciding which ones to keep and which to ditch. Unfortunately, this is not as easy as it might appear with MSPs because the \u201cproduct\u201d is 100% service-related and technology-based. Therefore, the reliance on these issues include:<\/p>\n At a minimum, every MSP, with any value, has a ticketing system<\/a>, asset tracking system<\/a>, remote monitoring, and management system, desktop monitoring<\/a>, spam filtering, and antivirus used to manage and support their clients. These are deeply complex applications, and the data migration is frequently wrought with issues that could result in missing data that is important to future system diagnosis. In addition, the new systems are equavelent to starting a new job for the engineers who must learn all-new programs. As a result, you end up with stressed MSP employees and slow, inaccurate service.<\/p>\n 2.\u00a0 Merging people and cultures<\/strong><\/p>\n Speaking of stressed MSP employees, holding companies are notorious for squeezing every dollar from every area of the company to put more money in the stakeholders\u2019 pockets.<\/p>\n Therefore, the things that make the MSP culture unique, like employee gatherings, trips, lunches, and perks, will likely change or go away in time. Last, duplicate roles will be eliminated – making everyone second guess job security. The combination of stress caused by change most often results in poorer service. That\u2019s why you should look at your contract as soon you hear the announcement.<\/p>\n The most important thing to look for is turnover. As a service industry, any positive experiences you have received in the past are based on the MSPs employee\u2019s performance which includes adherence to processes and procedures, ability to manage the technology, and ability to communicate effectively. Now they are measured by different standards designed to reduce the bottom line, and turnover is inevitable. That\u2019s why you should consider a new service the second you see turnover instead of waiting to see what happens later.<\/p>\n INSI\u00a0<\/strong>has long-standing, highly qualified, experienced, college-educated engineers who keep clients up-to-date on current technology. We have equipped them with the best technology tools and processes to ensure our services and your ability to remain productive are consistent and dependable. If you want the best MSP to keep you productive and safe, contact us at 770-387-2424 option 2 to speak with one of our IT support consultants.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/insi.net\/connect-with-insi\/” button_text=”Connect With INSI” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Deborah Frazier<\/a> is the author of IT Outsourcing Secrets \u2013 A Small Business Guide to Compare IT Support Companies. With 20 year’s of experience consulting small and medium-sized businesses on their IT support needs, she brings a wealth of knowledge to INSI as Head of Marketing and Sales. If you like this article and would like to get notified when a new article is posted, click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" MSPs (Managed Service Providers) had a tough time during the pandemic. As a result, many MSPs sold out or merged with tech companies that provide custom programming, VoIP telephones, or printer\/copier support and service. Many small IT owners felt the pinch of supply chain shortages and customer demands.\u201d Unfortunatly, it is still happening. This article […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":55880,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":" [et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"3.22\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"3.25\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"3.25\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.10\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" hover_enabled=\"0\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<\/p> How do you compare IT support company in Atlanta?\u00a0 There are so many IT companies in Atlanta, and it can be a daunting task to determine which one is right for you.\u00a0 They range from single IT support contractors to nationwide IT providers. Each one claims to be the best.\u00a0 So how do you decide which one is best for you?\u00a0 There are five simple determining factors to compare IT support company for you:<\/p> This article helps you understand your options and basic IT requirements.<\/p> There are many types of IT support agreements, and it is important to understand which one is right for you.\u00a0 A good rule of thumb is to know the lower the commitment, the higher the risk.<\/p> Ad Hoc<\/strong> \u2013 This service is typically provided by independent contractors who serve their clients on an as-needed basis.\u00a0 Ad hoc is an excellent option for someone who does not have a significant dependency on their computers to operate or needs less than 1\/4th<\/sup> of an hour of support per workstation per month. \u00a0<\/p> Blocks of Time<\/strong> \u2013 Blocks of Time allows you to purchase hours upfront and use them at your leisure.\u00a0 It is difficult for these companies to determine when the work will come in and how much staff is required.\u00a0 Therefore, they hire very cheap labor, and the service often has long wait times and inconsistent service when you do use them.<\/p> Use It or Lose It \u2013 <\/strong>This model closely determines the amount of support you need per month.\u00a0 If you go over those hours, you pay a higher hourly fee.\u00a0 If you stay under the hours, you lose what you don\u2019t use.\u00a0<\/p> Budget<\/strong>\u2013This is similar to the Block of Time, but the rollover is only for two months.\u00a0 More information on this complicated program can be found here.<\/p> Fixed-Rate<\/strong> \u2013 The Fixed Rate, aka Unlimited, provides unlimited help desk and server support for the entire environment.\u00a0 There is an additional cost for moves, adds, and changes. (MAC\u2019s)<\/p> Customized IT \u2122<\/strong> - Customized IT allows the company to choose the exact level of services and support they need at a fixed monthly rate.\u00a0 No more and no less.\u00a0\u00a0 This program is ideal for companies who have an internal IT department or specific ideas on how they want to be supported.\u00a0 It also substantially reduces the cost of the helpdesk.<\/p> Another way to compare IT support companies is by their IT maturity level. IT support levels can be measured by the quality of their people, technology, and processes.\u00a0<\/p> People<\/strong> \u2013 It is important to know the types of technicians or engineers they hire - experience matters. A technician does not have a degree but may have the experience.\u00a0 An engineer has a college degree and has the basics down but may not have the experience.\u00a0 However, the best combination is experience and great communication skills. Many technical types do not have good communication skills, and it is essential in this type of job.\u00a0 You can find out the caliber of person they hire by looking at their job posts.<\/p> Technolog<\/strong>y \u2013 While many independent contractors and startups skip on certain technologies until they make a profit, experienced MSP\u2019s know how to invest wisely in their technology to provide the best service.\u00a0 Successful MSPs have Remote Monitoring and Management systems (RMM), ticketing systems, asset tracking, desktop monitoring, hosting resources, and a wide range of cybersecurity options.<\/p> Processes<\/strong> \u2013 Great engineers and great technology can equip you for the best outcome.\u00a0 However, neither will do you any good unless the engineers can follow processes and procedures.\u00a0<\/p> The best way to compare IT support services is to focus on the basic support before the additional services.\u00a0 Support is the helpdesk, onsite support, remote monitoring, desktop monitoring, and basic IT monitoring.\u00a0<\/p> However, most MSPs offer additional support, including cloud\/hosting, telecom equipment\/services, websites, custom programming, or cybersecurity offerings, to name a few.\u00a0 All of which can be provided by a 3rd<\/sup> party provider. It is important your additional support contracts do not exceed your IT support contract.\u00a0 Otherwise, you will be trapped in an ongoing battle to get free from them.<\/p> The terms of your agreement tell how confident your MSP in their abilities to meet your needs.\u00a0<\/p> Month-to-Month \u2013 This length of agreement puts the risk on the provider.\u00a0 However, it also increases your onboarding cost.\u00a0 This is because onboarding takes time and the service provider either has to build that time into the length of the contract or charge it upfront.\u00a0 \u00a0Also, beware, many of these companies have a \u201c60-90 day out\u201d clause, which is the same as a short-term contract.<\/p> Short Term \u2013 Many MSPs do a 6-month term and month-to-month after that.\u00a0 This allows them to transition services and stabilize before going month-to-month.<\/p> Long Term \u2013 One year or more is a long time to lock someone into a service contract.\u00a0 Often, companies will do this in lieu of waving part or all of the onboarding.\u00a0 However, you should be cautious if a company\u2019s minimum term is one year or more.\u00a0 This is because the service will be great during the time of renewal, but fall off during the rest of the contract period.<\/p> Many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) like to choose larger companies because of their breadth, depth, and services.\u00a0 However, bigger is not always better. These companies are filled with bureaucracy and are focus on profit, and you are just another number. In contrast, your account matters to smaller companies, and they will cater to your specific needs and offer greater customer support. Therefore, it is more important to compare the engineer to client size ratio than just getting bigger, because they may be stretched thinner.\u00a0<\/p> Once you start comparing IT support contracts, and you will find out why INSI is the Top Managed Service Provider in Marietta and Metro Atlanta, GA. We offer\u00a0complete IT support<\/a>\u00a0packages for clients with no internal IT and\u00a0a la carte customized packages<\/a>\u00a0for small IT departments. Also, every client gets personalized service with a\u00a0Customer Support Manager<\/a>\u00a0(CSM) who serves as their primary point of contact for questions, needs, and project management. Most importantly, we only charge the client for the exact service and level they need. No more, no less.<\/p> If you are looking to replace or find a new IT support company in Atlanta Metro, let INSI provide a free site assessment and quote.\u00a0 You can\u00a0contact us here,<\/strong>\u00a0<\/a>or call 770-387-2424, Option 2, for more information.<\/p> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.9.10\" _module_preset=\"default\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.9.10\" _module_preset=\"default\"][et_pb_button button_url=\"https:\/\/insi.net\/connect-with-insi\/\" button_text=\"Connect With INSI\" _builder_version=\"4.9.10\" _module_preset=\"default\"][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.9.10\" _module_preset=\"default\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.9.10\" _module_preset=\"default\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.10\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<\/p> Deborah Frazier<\/a>\u00a0is the author of\u00a0IT Outsourcing Secrets \u2013 A Small Business Guide to Compare IT Support Companies.<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0With nearly 20-years\u2019 experience consulting small and medium-sized businesses on their IT support needs, she brings a wealth of knowledge to INSI as Head of Marketing and Sales.\u00a0If you like this article and would like to get notified when a new article is posted, click\u00a0here<\/a>.Realities of Acquired MSPs<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Acquiring IT Support Companies: Same Battle, Different Issues<\/strong><\/h2>\n
1.\u00a0 Merging technology and processes<\/strong><\/h3>\n
What to Look Out for if Your MSP Gets Acquired<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Choose the B<\/strong>est MSP in Atlanta and Marietta – Innovative Network Systems, Inc. (INSI)<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/strong><\/h4>\n
About the Author<\/h2>\n
Comparing IT support companies in the Atlanta and Marietta GA area? <\/strong><\/h2>
Types of IT Support<\/strong><\/h3>
Compare IT Support Capabilities<\/strong><\/h3>
Compare IT Support Services<\/strong><\/h3>
Compare Contract Terms<\/strong><\/h3>
Small vs Large IT Support Companies<\/strong><\/h4>
Top IT support company in Metro Atlanta:\u00a0 INSI<\/strong><\/h4>
About the Author<\/h2>
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[66],"tags":[26,16,38,20,53,43,23,54,55,30],"yoast_head":"\n