What to Look For in a Managed Services Provider

The reasons for choosing a managed service provider as a strategic business resource for your company can be very clear.  Now comes the tricky part of deciding which managed service provider is best for your business. To make the best possible decision, consider the following factors as you measure up in the highly competitive world of managed service providers. So, you can simply contact an IT support company like a Rivell that provides managed services.

To some extent, the cost has always been one of the most important decision-making factors in any business decision; and of course, a consideration when choosing a managed service provider. When you are considering how much this service will cost your business, the first thing to do is make sure you compare cost savings that can be made from active maintenance improvements that will maximize your uptime and productivity. 

Contract review: Get detailed contracts specifying exactly which services are provided by the contract and which services are not covered, but are calculated in addition to the standard monthly flat rate. Check what type of treatment is included in the agreement and whether it is 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or if there is an additional charge for your after-hours or weekend care needs.

Support, Monitoring, and Security: Ensure that the service includes frequent and regular checks of hardware and software for the latest security patches and updates. Services should also include remote monitoring of your systems around the clock, seven days a week, so providers can identify and fix potential problems before they escalate into service outages or crises.

Remote Data Backup and Storage: Make sure you choose a provider that can fully restore your system at any time and under any circumstances in the event of a disaster or data loss; whether caused by security breaches, disgruntled employees, viruses, or natural disasters. 

Reports: Each qualified managed service provider must provide at least a quarterly status and service report with detailed data: overall system performance, potential problem areas, and areas for improvement.