What are MSPs?

Things like managing all that software, sending out or buying new equipment for employees, and even answering those help desk questions from your employees. When companies run into these issues, there are usually only two paths. Using an MSP or hiring someone to join the company and handle these problems full-time. 

Managed service providers (MSPs) are third-party companies that provide IT services and support to businesses.

What to consider with a managed service provider

MSPs can be a great option for businesses that don't have the internal resources to manage their IT needs. They can also be a good choice for businesses that want to outsource some or all of their IT functions.

If you’re trying to choose an MSP, there are several things to consider. Most importantly, you'll want to ensure they offer your needed services. After that, you'll want to ask about their experience and expertise. Get references from other businesses that have used their services.

Overall, managed service providers can be a great option for businesses that need help managing their IT needs. They offer a variety of services and can be a cost-effective solution. However, there are some potential drawbacks to using an MSP, so you'll want to consider all of your options before making a decision.

Some of the key services offered by MSPs are: 

1. Software as a service (SaaS) management 
   • Add users to software 
   • Remove users from software 
   • Make sure the right employees have access to the right software

2. SaaS spend management
   • Keep track of costs related to software
   • Make sure we are only paying for the software that we need
   • Make sure when users leave the organization, we are no longer paying for unneeded licenses 

3. Hardware management
   • Keep track of Desktops and laptops given to employees by the company 
   • Purchase hardware needed by the organization 
   • Manage to get this hardware to employees for remote/hybrid organizations 
   • Make sure the hardware is returned when employees leave the organization

Here are the main benefits of using an MSP:

1. They can provide expertise and experience that you may not have internally
2. They can offer a wide range of services, so you can choose what you need
3. They can be a cost-effective solution for businesses that don't have the internal resources to manage their IT needs

But there are some potential drawbacks of using an MSP:

1. You may be reliant on their services, so if they go out of business or have technical problems, your business could be impacted
2. You may not have as much control over your IT functions if you outsource to an MSP
3. There may be a limit to the amount of support you can get from an MSP
4. The cost of their services can be prohibitive 

Automated service providers can help

Automated service providers (ASPs) are a newer type of service that is becoming increasingly popular. ASPs offer many of the same services as MSPs but use automation to handle the most common IT tasks. These services include onboarding, offboarding, and simple help desk requests related to access or IT spend.

ASPs, like Talisman, can be an excellent option for businesses that want to outsource their IT functions but want to be independent of an MSP or have the money to spend on an MSP or IT hire.

Talisman provides many IT services:

1. They can offer a high degree of control over your IT functions.
2. They are the most cost-effective solution for businesses that want to outsource IT.
3. They can offer a high degree of control over your IT functions. They can provide a wide range of services, so you can choose what you need.

Want to know how you can experience the magic of Talisman and see how you can automate onboarding, offboarding and more? Click here to join the waitlist!