If you own or are a decision-maker for a business, hiring a managed service provider (MSP) can be a sound investment. While it will increase your overhead costs initially, it will save both time and money in the long run. By letting experts handle IT operations, you can focus on serving clients, perfecting your products, and following leads. Many MSPs are reactive in nature and only engage with clients when problems arise. To get the most out of IT consulting, though, it’s important to find the best professionals for the job. Here are a few questions you can ask to narrow down your choices.

3 Questions to Ask Your Managed Service Provider

1. What Is Your Fee Structure?

You should not do business with any vendors that are not transparent about their fee structure. This is especially true when it comes to managed service providers because, at some point, you will probably need assistance after-hours. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the firm's billing model before signing a contract. In general, working with a firm that charges flat fees instead of hourly rates will protect your company’s bottom line by preventing unanticipated expenditures from month to month. 

2. What Is Your Response Time?

If your network or server infrastructure crashes, every hour down will undoubtedly cost your company money. For this reason, look for a firm that is available 24/7 and promises fast response times when emergencies arise. At the end of the day, you should feel like the provider’s only client, regardless of how many other businesses they serve. 

3. How Can You Support My Company’s Growth?

Can the firm help you build a technology infrastructure that allows for future growth? Or will they do the absolute minimum to meet only your current needs? As long as you plan on growing the company, it’s important to find a firm that will assess your system periodically and provide upgrades as needed. 

If you’re looking for a managed service provider in the Tri-State area, turn to WPG Consulting. Based in Manhattan, this technology consulting firm helps businesses devise and implement cost-effective solutions for all the digital demands of their day-to-day operations. Serving clients throughout New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, they assist with server management and maintenance, cybersecurity, cloud storage, and VoIP phone systems and collaboration platforms. To discuss your needs with someone on their team, call (646) 868-9800 or complete the form on their website.