A Managed Service Provider, often referred to as an MSP, is basically a third-party company that handles and manages specific IT processes for its clients. That can range anywhere from networking to security, cloud storage to hardware repair. Like any other outsourced service, MSPs have their advantages and disadvantages, but many of them can save you money when it comes to cloud storage. Google Cloud, for example, has thousands of trusted partners to help you make the transition to the cloud, and oftentimes, these MSPs can save you money on cloud storage when compared to the standard, published rates from major providers.
Who Should Consider an MSP?
With tens of thousands of MSPs serving the world, it’s likely you’ll find one that fulfills you or your business’s needs. If you’re planning on moving your data to the cloud in the near future and don’t have the internal resources to handle the migration and maintenance, it’s a great time to shop for an MSP. Even if you’re currently using cloud storage, MSPs can help save you money on the exact same service you’re currently paying for. If your business is in the position to scale and grow, but it doesn’t have the internal IT resources to support that growth, MSPs can be an ideal solution.
How do you Choose the Right MSP?
If you’re researching MSPs, you’ve likely seen the wide range of services any particular MSP has to offer. There are full-service MSPs, that will manage all of your business’s IT and cloud needs, to MSPs that focus on specialized needs. Like finding the right employee for your business, choosing the right MSP comes down to finding a good fit, so start by searching for an MSP that is capable of meeting your particular needs, whether it’s data management or security. Speaking of security, you’ll want to ensure the MSP you’re considering is up to date with how they will be handling your data and that it’ll be in safe hands.
Since an MSP will be handling some or all of your IT needs, you’ll want to ensure its customer service is easily accessible, regardless of the time or day. Treat them as you would an internal employee, because you’ll never know when you’ll need them. In addition, focus on MSPs that are open to customizing a solution specific to your business. The best MSPs will work with you and your problems, finding creative solutions that are cost-effective. You’ll also want to inquire about an MSP’s onboarding process before committing to one, this way you know an approximate timeline and cost to get everything up and running.
How MSPs can Help you Save Money on Cloud Storage
To help save on your cloud storage costs, WindRate works with MSPs to bid on your business. Your requirements are sent anonymously to providers, who pass along their low negotiated rates to you or your business. By filling out one simple form, you’ll get bids from multiple MSPs and you get to decide who to contact and when. WindRate’s users have saved up to 70 percent on cloud storage and it’s absolutely free to get a quote.