9 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Managed Service Provider

SEPTEMBER 30, 2022 06:18 AM

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A digital presence is essential for companies today. However, many businesses find it challenging to adapt to the digital age and adequately apply it to their day-to-day operations. Modern IT business solutions help companies in a variety of industries. Still, they need to do dozens of searches to choose a reliable Managed Service Provider (MSP) to oversee their technology stack, which can take time and effort.

For many companies, keeping up with technology is outside their priority list, and migrating to the cloud can seem impossible. This blog tells how to select the right MSPs by providing quality questions to ask before going for cloud migration and explains how to identify who can guide you through this digital landscape.

What accolades and/or certifications does your company have?
Accolades are a tangible reputation showing that the company has reached certain skill levels, and certifications carry more weight than others. Check if the MSP is a Gold Partner with companies like Oracle, Amazon, Microsoft, etc.
Can you provide a list of references similar to my service needs?
Most of the MSPs who want to show off their successes will have a list of references; all these will provide a more accurate picture of the company's capability. But do not fall prey by seeing the list of successes and not failures. Please do your research and ask about the projects they found the most difficult and what they did to overcome these hurdles.
What are the pricing options offered by the MSP?
You need to check on pricing to see if the MSP will be flexible for customizable pricing. Few client-centric MSPs offer tailored solutions specific to the client's management needs.
What is the MSP business continuity/disaster recovery plan?
Most MSPs have a disaster plan; however, getting a complete picture of how they can help you with disaster recovery, from both your facility and their own, if any catastrophic situation happens, can play a significant role in your decision.
What compliance frameworks does the MSP support?
Depending upon your business, you must check if they are certified in HIPAA, PCI, or GDPR compliance. Additionally, verify the MSP has SLAs that guarantee the successful execution of the contract.
What are the MSP competencies?
By reviewing the certification list for an MSP, you will get an indication of the quality and its technical strengths. A Windows specialist is not helpful to a Linux shop, so ask for their resource's skill sets to see if they are current on the latest cloud technologies.
Which tasks are included in the contract, and which are "out of scope"?
A business relationship should be a win-win situation where a clear communication plan sets the expectations. Getting the list of tasks in and out of scope in the contract helps you know how services outside these boundaries will impact your cost.
Will you provide any strategic IT advice in the future?
In this cloud age, enterprises and technology keep growing. MSPs with a good track record are always expected to look to the future and anticipate their future needs.
What makes you different from other MSPs?
Last but not least, in any conversation, ask, "What are the benefits of working with you?" Responding to this is a piece of cake for any MSP if they are unique. Check on the MSPs provided references, case studies, and testimonials.

Whether you're looking for Oracle Database, PeopleSoft, or Cloud Managed Services, choosing the right partner can be complicated and is something that many others fail to do. There are many MSPs out there, and these nine questions can help you find the best MSP that puts the needs of others first and helps your business stay safe and successful.

FAQs

What are the key Oracle Cloud Applications that SMACT Works specializes in?
SMACT Works demonstrates expertise in various Oracle Cloud Applications, including Oracle ERP Cloud, Oracle EPM Cloud, Oracle HCM Cloud, Oracle SCM Cloud, Oracle Student Cloud, and Oracle CX Cloud. They also handle Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, Oracle PeopleSoft, Oracle E-Business Suite, and Oracle Analytics & BI. Overall, their expertise capabilities expand across the Oracle ecosystem.
What should companies consider when selecting a Managed Service Provider (MSP)?
Companies should assess an MSP's accolades and certifications (e.g., Gold Partner status with Oracle, Microsoft, or Amazon), request client references, understand pricing options (including customizable pricing), and thoroughly evaluate the MSP's business continuity/disaster recovery plan. Compliance frameworks supported (HIPAA, PCI, GDPR) and the MSP's competencies are also crucial.
Why is it important to ask an MSP about tasks included and excluded from the contract?
A clear understanding of the scope of services within the contract is vital. Knowing which tasks are "in scope" and "out of scope" allows businesses to anticipate potential costs for services beyond the standard agreement, promoting transparency and avoiding surprises.
How important is it for an MSP to provide strategic IT advice for the future?
In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, an MSP must be forward-thinking and anticipate a client's future needs. The ability to provide strategic IT advice demonstrates that the MSP is invested in the client's long-term success and can adapt to changing requirements.
What certifications does SMACT Works hold?
SMACT Works is an Oracle Gold Partner Cloud Standard, ISO 9001, and 27001 certified delivery organization. These certifications showcase a commitment to quality and security in their service delivery.

Ready to find the right Managed Service Provider for your business?

Don't leave it to guesswork-our experts are here to help. If you have questions or want to discuss your unique IT needs, contact us today by filling out our quick contact form. Let's explore how SMACT Works can support your growth with reliable, tailored IT solutions.

About SMACT Works

SMACT Works is a technology-focused systems integrator and IT/ERP consulting firm. We deliver end-to-end consulting, managed, and implementation services for Oracle Cloud Applications, IaaS & PaaS, On-Premise PeopleSoft & EBS Applications. Headquartered in Dublin, OH, we have a global presence with North America and Asia offices. We are an Oracle Gold Partner Cloud Standard, ISO 9001, and 27001 certified delivery organization serving customers with Excellence and Integrity.