With the implementation of a Managed Service Provider (MSP) program, you’re bound to face a mountain of new challenges. The implementation process is sure to test your resolve and skill as an MSP. Fortunately, you have more than enough resources at your disposal to overcome these challenges and make the implementation process as successful as it can be. Here are some helpful hints on how to keep your MSE implementation on track from start to finish.

Set Clear Objectives When You Begin

All MSPs have their own unique challenges and challenges vary from one MSP to the next. The challenges you face are likely different from the challenges your current clients face. Because of this, you’ll have to set some clear objectives early on in your MSP journey. Otherwise, you risk missing important milestones along the way. For example, consider the objectives you set for your MSP journey at the beginning.

In addition to setting objectives for your MSP journey, you’ll also need to set the right expectations with your clients. And, to do this, you’ll have to do some critical thinking. There are a few things you should keep in mind as you set expectations with your clients.

Be Realistic About Timeframe

The length of time it takes to fully implement an MSP program is different for each organization. The length of time it takes to fully implement an MSP program is different for each organization. While some MSPs can be fully operational in just six months, more seasoned companies may take up to 18 months to implement a program. As a general rule of thumb, experienced MSPs should aim to implement their program in 12 to 18 months. And, when determining this timeframe, it’s important to account for the amount of time it’ll take to procure and onboard new clients. The time needed for this is key to knowing how long the implementation process will take.

Define Key Performance Indicators

When setting your objectives for your MSP journey, it’s also important to set clear KPIs for your MSP. This will help you track progress, identify key areas for improvement, and identify any weak spots in your MSP implementation. While a certain level of uncertainty lies in the implementation process, you’ll at least be able to track key performance indicators that tell you if your company is making progress. As a rule of thumb, you should set five to seven key performance indicators for your MSP journey.

Tackling The Technical Transition

One of the biggest challenges associated with implementing a new MSP program is the transition from in-house IT. The in-house IT team may have built the majority of your company’s technology infrastructure. In addition, the IT team may have developed crucial business processes around managing clients and projects. For many MSPs, the transition from in-house to outsourced IT will be the most significant challenge during implementation. Therefore, it’s important to prepare for this transition as best as possible. One of the best ways to do this is to identify key areas of your company that will need to transition to an outsourced IT model.

Have A Team Meeting ASAP

If you’re one of the MSPs who are fully operational in just six months, you can skip this tip. However, most MSPs will take longer to implement their program. One of the best ways to tackle the challenges associated with implementing a new MSP program is to have a team meeting ASAP. During team meetings, you can identify areas of your company that may need to transition to an outsourced IT model. With this information, your team will be in a better position to prepare for the transition.

Increase Rep For New Services

Naturally, you want to drive more business from your current clients. This is done through the process of identifying new services for your clients. For example, you may want to identify new services for your clients that fall under the transportation category. This will help you better manage and track the movement of your clients’ goods. Another way you can drive more business is to identify new services that help your clients address specific issues they’re facing.

Conclusion

The implementation of an MSP program is sure to be challenging. However, it’s certainly not impossible. The implementation process will be more challenging the first time you go through it. Therefore, you’ll need to employ a few strategies and tactics to make the implementation process as smooth as possible. The implementation of an MSP program will certainly be challenging. However, it’s certainly not impossible.