If there’s one thing we know about technology by now, it’s that it’s constantly changing, whether we like it or not. Just ask the surprisingly large segment of the population who wishes Windows XP or Windows 7 was still the standard. It’s a reality that we can’t keep our favorite operating systems running forever, just like we cannot ignore all the changes technology brings to every aspect of our businesses. Managed service providers (MSPs), in particular, have a challenging job with keeping up with their own technological business needs while providing customers with up-to-date technology solutions as well.
Technologies That Are Changing the MSP Business
Changes in technology along with consumer buying behavior are fundamentally altering the way MSPs do business. Those who don’t respond accordingly are likely to be left behind. We’ve identified a few technologies that an MSP might consider adding to their portfolio of services to help grow their business.
Cloud-based phone service. Cloud-based phone service is increasingly a table-stake in MSP business operations. Advances in VoIP technology have addressed business continuity and include mobile options. Customers need voice services to run their businesses, and will look to the phone, cable and VoIP providers if MSPs don’t offer this service. MSPs that provide cloud-based phone service have to access the broadest market, and those who don’t provide it are missing out on a very profitable offering.
Internet of Things. Internet of Things (IoT) operations are a comparatively new addition to the field, but one that requires some considerations to bring in properly. Since most IoT operations have a hardware and a software component, smaller MSPs may not be able to handle the hardware aspect. Having a partner in mind to recommend is key unless you can fill this need yourself. Security will be especially important here, so be ready to offer it if you have the hardware, or make sure your sub-provider is ready on that end.
Analytics. Analytics services can be a great sale thanks to their adaptability. These are huge with retail businesses, but any business that has customers and wants to learn from the inherent patterns they exhibit will find value here. Analytics can be as simple as stocking the right software, and you can gain double-sided sales by selling security alongside analytics. Analytics systems work by analyzing data, and with that much data in one place, protecting it will be all the more important.
What MSPs Should Do When Technology Doesn’t Adapt Easily
Not all businesses adapt to new technology without some sort of complaint or hesitation. When you’re faced with this challenge, particularly with voice services, drop us a line at D3UC. We offer a white-label cloud phone and unified communications service exclusively for MSP businesses to rebrand as their own. Releasing an offering under your own banner can reduce your customer’s adaptation anxiety. Since we also offer support services at no additional charge, even when the most difficult adaptations arise, we can still help clear things up. Get in touch with us and improve your offerings.
