Thanks to the power of technology, businesses are able to collaborate across any distance and time zone. But in a time where information security is essential to the day-to-day operations of an organization, knowing how to work with a remote business partner and share sensitive data with them is a necessity. In this case, said partner is a remote managed IT service provider (MSP).
This article will go over what an MSP is, how you should share information with them, and how to identify and choose the right types of partnerships that will enhance your company's IT efficiency.
What is a managed IT service provider?
An MSP is a third-party organization that handles all of a company's IT needs. In certain cases, businesses can share the responsibility of IT management with an MSP-this is known as co-managed services. MSPs offer hardware maintenance, software management, remote IT support, and more.
The exact nature of the partnership between a business and an MSP is detailed in a service-level agreement (SLA). Typically, SLAs define general partner responsibilities (for example, what services the MSP will provide you with), reporting processes, and other areas that will form the partnership between you and the MSP.
Why do businesses need to share information with a remote managed service provider?
A managed IT service provider can be an invaluable asset to your company. But like with any business partnership, you must effectively converse with and share information with your partner MSP to ensure that they can deliver the exact solutions and service offerings your company requires. That way, you and your team can rest assured knowing that your organization's IT environment is optimized and well-suited to uphold company processes.
Furthermore, sharing information can foster transparency between your business and the managed IT service provider. Transparency is one of several pillars that define a successful business partnership. By sharing information, you and your partner MSP will always be on the same page, resulting in a business relationship that facilitates seamless growth.
How can businesses share information with their remote managed IT service provider effectively?
When it comes to sharing information with your managed IT service provider, there are certain practices that businesses should follow.
First and foremost, leverage a clear communication protocol that details how you and your partner MSP can communicate with each other. For example, by holding regular meetings. This will ensure that both parties are up to date on the state of your business and any issues can be easily discussed.
Next, you should only share pertinent information. Rather than handing over every bit of data your company generates, learn what information your MSP needs to carry out its duties most efficiently and pass it along.
Lastly, ensure that all shared information is protected at all stages of the exchange. Inquire as to what data protection technologies and solutions your MSP uses and how they can safeguard your sensitive information.
How to choose the right remote managed IT service provider for your business
- Evaluate the MSP’s experience: Look for a provider with a solid track record in delivering remote IT support and other services to organizations similar to yours.
- Consider scalability, flexibility, and adaptability: Ensure the provider can scale their services according to your business's growth and adapt to changing technological needs.
- Determine their approach to cybersecurity: Assess the provider's data security solutions/strategies and how they will safeguard your IT environment.
- Look for honesty: An MSP that is unwilling to answer questions about its services will offer you a counterproductive business partnership. Focus your search on MSPs that are easily contactable, trustworthy, and dedicated to prioritizing your needs.
Empower your company's technology and information-sharing processes with a leading managed IT service provider
Sharing information with your MSP is critical for a successful business partnership. It allows them to innovate your IT environment with relevant solutions, ultimately allowing you to leverage technology that will increase and minimize your profits and losses respectively.
The managed services experts at BCS365 have years of experience configuring and maintaining diverse IT environments for many types of businesses. Their deep understanding of various technologies and their proactive approach to system monitoring and management will make sure that your IT infrastructure remains optimized, reliable, and aligned with your specific business needs.
With their comprehensive remote IT support service offerings and dedication to ensuring secure information sharing, the team at BCS365 is the IT support partner your business needs to ensure technological and operational success for seamless business continuity.