In today’s very competitive business environment, a company needs to develop a plan to set itself apart from its rivals. Technology is now a key differentiator for businesses across all industries.
Most likely, you are aware of the significance of the client-provider connection. After all, it’s a subject that articles, blogs, and discussion boards have been delving into for years. In contrast to practice, how much of this knowledge is theory? Would you know what measures to take if you had to implement these tactics tomorrow?
Welcome to another episode of Uptime, where Richard Luna discusses the value of open communication between customers and service providers. What discrepancy exists between the services that IT service providers and MSPs offer to deliver and those that are actually provided?
The Importance of a Service-Provider Relationship
When people in the business sector discuss ties with service providers, they are referring to the alliances that companies form with their partners. Vendors, suppliers, distributors, IT service providers, managed service providers, and system integrators are just a few examples. The goal of a service-provider partnership is for both sides to prosper.
You enter into a partnership with a business to supply critical technology services like hosting, IT infrastructure, security, or managed services. This partnership will be advantageous to both of you in several ways. Consider running a network of car dealerships that requires an IT infrastructure to handle credit card payments and maintain employee communication. You’re getting into a contract with a managed services provider (MSP) if you hire them to assist you with these chores.
Truth in Transparency: Know What You’re Buying
The success of any company depends on its IT service providers, but not all of them are made equal. A wide range of technology-related services are offered by numerous service providers, each of whom has their own value propositions, business strategies, and strengths and weaknesses. Because of this, it’s crucial to work with an IT service provider who is a suitable fit for your business.
You can avoid common pitfalls that can disrupt your business and have a negative impact on your bottom line by working with a service provider that is a good fit for your organization. These pitfalls include paying too much for services you don’t need or are overpriced or not getting the level of support and maintenance your company needs to succeed.
Before signing up with an IT service provider, ensure you understand exactly what you’re buying to ensure the relationship is a good fit for your business. You don’t want to sign up with a service provider that is overpriced or doesn’t offer a solution that lines up with your business needs.
The Importance of a Good SLA
Any managed services agreement must include a service-level agreement (SLA). The service provider’s responsibilities are outlined in the SLA, including the degree of customer service, the duration of downtime, and the uptime of crucial systems. It also covers the responsibilities of the client.
Making sure the SLA is in your favor is crucial. The SLA is your chance to hold the service provider responsible for their commitments by outlining what you anticipate from them if you are a client working with an MSP. You can also use this as an opportunity to set a performance standard.
The SLA is your chance, as an MSP, to describe the promises you make to your clients. You can also use it to establish a performance standard. For instance, you must consistently live up to the expectation if your SLA promises that a technician will respond to an issue within four hours.
Key Takeaways
It is a technological strategic partner that provides more than just a single good or service. It is a partner who offers knowledge, direction, and assistance to assist you in expanding your company through IT services.
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