As you explore the world of Managed Service Providers (MSPs), knowing which services you need to offer is crucial for your success. You may serve clients who expect prompt assistance and reliable support. Meeting these expectations can help you create valuable relationships and generate recurring revenue.
In this article, you will learn about essential services to provide as an MSP, along with additional offerings you can introduce to grow your business. Whether you are just starting or have been in the industry for some time, these insights will help you better serve your clients and enhance your profitability.
Core MSP Services
Network Management
You will provide essential services like cable runs and switch management. These services are crucial as they ensure the proper connection and flow of data within your clients' networks. Keep in mind, while you may not include these in your standard pricing, they are important for creating a reliable infrastructure.
Wireless Networking
Setting up wireless networks is another key service you should offer. This includes configuring Wi-Fi connections and ensuring clients have proper coverage. A well-functioning wireless network enhances productivity and keeps clients connected without interruption.
VPN and LAN Setup
Establishing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and Local Area Networks (LANs) is vital for maintaining secure and efficient communications. You will set up these networks to protect sensitive data, allowing employees to work securely from various locations. Providing this setup will give your clients peace of mind about their data security.
Cybersecurity Services
Penetration Testing
You need to conduct penetration testing to find weaknesses in your systems. This service imitates cyber attacks to uncover vulnerabilities before real hackers can exploit them. Regular testing helps to strengthen your defenses and reassure your clients of their security.
Dark Web Scans
Perform dark web scans to check if your clients' sensitive data has been exposed. This service searches the hidden parts of the internet where stolen information is sold. By providing this service, you can alert clients quickly, allowing them to take action and protect their information.
HIPAA Risk Assessments
Offer HIPAA risk assessments if you work with healthcare clients. This assessment identifies areas where patient information could be compromised. It ensures compliance with regulations and helps organizations safeguard health data from breaches.
Threat Reports
Create threat reports for your clients to keep them informed about potential risks. These reports analyze current threats and vulnerabilities, providing recommendations to enhance security. This service keeps clients updated on the latest cyber risks and helps them take proactive measures.
Phone Services
VoIP Solutions
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is an essential service for managed service providers (MSPs). You can set up VoIP systems for clients, which allows for efficient communication at a lower cost. By selling and installing the necessary equipment, such as phones and networking cables, you create a steady source of income.
The benefit of VoIP solutions is the potential for long-term contracts, providing you with monthly recurring revenue. VoIP services usually require minimal ongoing management after installation.
Traditional Phone System Management
If you choose to offer traditional phone systems, there are various opportunities to generate income. These systems often include physical phones that require setup and installation. You can charge for the equipment, installation services, and any necessary cable runs.
Additionally, traditional phone systems often come with multi-year contracts that ensure recurring revenue. Updating or upgrading these systems can also bring new sales opportunities as businesses grow and change.
Contractual Service Agreements
Establishing contractual service agreements with clients can secure your revenue stream. These contracts help ensure that both you and your clients are clear about the services provided over a set duration. Usually, these agreements are beneficial for VoIP and traditional phone services.
Clients appreciate the predictability of service costs, and you benefit from a consistent income source. Each renewal period presents an opportunity to reassess services and potentially add new offerings.
Web Services
Website Hosting
Many managed service providers can benefit from offering website hosting. If you have experience with platforms like WordPress, consider managing website hosting for your clients. You might not handle updates or redesigns, which is fine.
Focus on ensuring the websites are running smoothly and kept up to date. This can add a steady income stream, especially if you create packages that clients can subscribe to monthly.
WordPress Management
If you are skilled in WordPress, you can provide management services for your clients’ sites. This includes making sure plugins are up to date, managing backups, and ensuring the website’s security. It might also be helpful to educate your clients on basic WordPress usage.
Offering this service is a great way to add value without having to redesign websites or create new content. This service can stand alone or complement your hosting offerings, providing you with consistent revenue.
Consulting Services
CIO and VCIO
Offering Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Virtual Chief Information Officer (VCIO) services can help your clients manage their technology needs effectively. These services allow you to provide strategic guidance on technology and align it with your client's business goals.
You can assist in budgeting, financial planning, and technology roadmapping, ensuring that clients know what resources they will need over the coming years.
Technology Consulting
In technology consulting, you enable clients to choose the right systems and solutions tailored to their businesses. This can include assessing current technologies, evaluating new tools, and helping with implementation. Your expertise can guide them through the complexities of integrating new technologies into their existing framework for optimal performance.
Research and Development
Research and development services help clients innovate and stay competitive. You can aid in exploring new ideas, testing solutions, and analyzing market trends. By collaborating with clients, you can identify opportunities for growth and improvement, setting the stage for them to adopt cutting-edge solutions that benefit their operations.
Business Communication
SIP Trunking
SIP trunking is a modern way to manage phone services. It allows you to connect your existing phone system to the internet. This means you can make and receive calls using your internet connection rather than traditional phone lines.
With SIP trunking, you often enjoy lower costs and greater flexibility. Many businesses find this approach to be a cost-effective solution since you can scale your phone service as needed.
Fax over IP
Fax over IP is a service that enables you to send and receive faxes over the internet. Instead of relying on a physical fax machine, you can use an online service that converts your documents into faxes. This service not only saves you space but also makes faxing more efficient.
You can send faxes from your computer or mobile device, making it a convenient option for many businesses.
IVR Systems
IVR (Interactive Voice Response) systems help streamline communication with customers. These systems allow callers to interact with a computer system through voice or keypad inputs.
You can use IVR to manage incoming calls more efficiently by guiding callers to the right department or providing automated responses to common questions. Implementing an IVR system can improve customer satisfaction by reducing wait times and ensuring that callers receive the information they need quickly.
Budgeting
You need to plan your budget carefully to ensure your MSP can grow. Start by estimating your monthly expenses, such as salaries, software, and tools. Include costs for services you offer and any additional services you want to provide.
A simple budgeting formula is:
Income: What you expect to earn each month.
Expenses: Recurring costs, plus any one-time expenses.
Savings: Set aside a portion for future investments or emergencies.
Make sure you regularly review and adjust your budget based on actual income and expenses.
Growth Projections
When planning for the future, consider realistic growth projections. Analyze your current client base and set goals for new clients.
Ask yourself:
How many new clients can you realistically acquire each month?
What services can you offer to your existing clients to increase revenue?
To help visualize your growth, create a projection table:
Year | Expected Clients | Estimated Revenue |
1 | 10 | $10,000 |
2 | 20 | $25,000 |
3 | 30 | $40,000 |
This simple table can guide your planning and help you track progress. By understanding where you want to go, you can align your services and training efforts with your financial goals. To find out more about MSPs, visit our book a consultation with one of our experts.
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