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Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.
Manage
Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.
7 ways service providers drive lasting transformation success
Attention to people, process, organizational culture and reward systems preserve digital change over the long haul. Here are seven approaches to keep in mind. Continue Reading
IT service execs point to 5 core zero-trust questions
A partner-customer dialog around zero trust should focus on the basics of organizational awareness, upskilling, funding, technical tooling and user experience. Continue Reading
Zero-trust consulting opportunities abound amid tech confusion
Ten years on, tech buyers still find zero trust bewildering. Consultants aim to help them get a handle on -- and deploy -- this multifaceted security model. Continue Reading
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Health of digital transformation: Consulting firms list issues
Digital transformation can take too long and fail to deliver. Root causes include lack of focus, cultural barriers and technical challenges, according to IT services executives. Continue Reading
Pliancy shuns MSP label, grows $30M business
The managed services business model may be an investor favorite at the moment, but Marcus Olson has avoided that term, emphasizing a consultative approach instead. Continue Reading
Low-code/no-code platforms for MSPs' in-house, external use
Service providers gain agility and efficiency benefits when using these emerging development platforms, and also land consulting opportunities with clients.Continue Reading
Partners see growth in maturing on-premises cloud technology
Colocation, data-center-as-a-service offerings and cloud-like consumption models offer customers alternatives -- or adjuncts -- to public cloud platforms.Continue Reading
Measuring innovation success in co-innovation partnerships
Profits are an obvious way to measure business success, but to measure co-innovation partnerships, parties must also identify intangible benefits, such as knowledge acquired.Continue Reading
Digital transformation in manufacturing melds emerging tech
Partners work with customers to absorb a mixture of AI, IIoT, hyperautomation, 5G and cloud computing, while dealing with the challenge of highly distributed organizations.Continue Reading
Explore unfolding managed IT services for manufacturing
MSPs are exploring opportunities to help manufacturers navigate digital transformation challenges, including integrating legacy systems and staying competitive.Continue Reading
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5 steps for MSPs to retain employees
Managed service providers must apply these steps to make it through the Great Resignation and create a stronger company and better working environment.Continue Reading
How to navigate M&A in the MSP space
MSP M&A can feel like a chess match: Each party wants to win with little, if any, consideration for their opponent. Here are tips to approach information gathering for an M&A.Continue Reading
Financial industry cloud model gains momentum
Channel partners working with industry clouds, such as IBM's Cloud for Financial Services, can limit the work customers must do to meet application security and compliance requirements.Continue Reading
SD-WAN project covers security, latency and cloud
PM Pediatrics, an urgent care provider, hired service provider Vandis to improve branch security, but the project transformed into something much broader.Continue Reading
Mission's machine learning consulting gig boosts image
E-card platform JibJab sought a better way to crop images for a new physical book product. Mission improved the process's accuracy in an effort that won a 2021 Top Projects Award.Continue Reading
Aruba partner equips facility with managed network solutions
To build room to grow, Wiptec established a new distribution center with Aruba Edge Service Platform. See how channel partner CPU ensured a smooth process from start to finish.Continue Reading
5 ways to improve MSP marketing and sales
Review these tips to get a better understanding of the people, process and tools you'll need to bolster what has been a traditional weakness among service providers.Continue Reading
Channel partners prepare data analytics managed services
Customers may not fully understand AI and machine learning technology yet, but channel partners have been building their expertise to make the use cases a reality for clients.Continue Reading
Channel partners must understand the cybersecurity market
COVID-19 and consolidations have reshaped the cybersecurity market. Channel partners and customers must keep up with the market and best practices, including insurance policies.Continue Reading
Cloud for industry sectors calls for co-innovation
The verticalization of cloud computing will hinge on alliances in which service providers, hyperscalers and customers collaborate on industry-specific platforms.Continue Reading
MSPs find soft-skill, tech challenges in help desk ticketing
Service provider personnel must work through automation, staffing and software challenges when they deploy help desk ticketing central business management systems.Continue Reading
Deloitte software engineering gets global boost
Recent acquisitions help the consultancy pursue 24/7 software sprints to meet customer demand for digitalization and faster product delivery cycles.Continue Reading
Federal cybersecurity funding creates MSP opportunities
Despite federal funding for cybersecurity, many state, local government and education organizations don't know how to get it. But IT providers can step in and help.Continue Reading
Keeping talent may call for apprenticeships, training
Service providers struggling with conventional employee hiring and retention approaches may need to pursue alternate routes, industry executives said.Continue Reading
managed IT service
A managed IT service is an information technology (IT) task provided by a third-party contractor and delivered to a customer.Continue Reading
Apple device management considerations for MSPs
RMM software has evolved into a cybersecurity attack vector, creating concerns for MSPs and their customers. Does Apple's configuration-based management approach offer a solution?Continue Reading
MSP industry regulation and how providers can shape it
MSP industry watchers have predicted the establishment of regulations for providers. The National Society of IT Service Providers wants to ensure MSPs can guide public policy.Continue Reading
managed service provider (MSP)
A managed service provider (MSP) is a third-party company that remotely manages a customer's information technology (IT) infrastructure and end-user systems.Continue Reading
How cloud consultants execute a product development strategy
Creating intellectual property can help partners meet soaring demand for cloud services, differentiate their offerings and boost their appeal to investors.Continue Reading
After Kaseya attack, MSPs should rethink RMM practices
The Kaseya ransomware attack in July wasn't the first security event to involve RMM tools, and it probably won't be the last. Dave Sobel asks if it's time that MSPs dump their RMMs.Continue Reading
5 password management tips for MSP customers
Clients often have weak password management practices. In addition, their users may lack proper password security tools. Here's how to help clients protect their organizations.Continue Reading
SADA's FinOps lead sheds light on an emerging field
In this Q&A, SADA's Rich Hoyer discusses the fundamentals of FinOps, why it's gaining visibility, and the conundrum of cloud technology and its value to customers.Continue Reading
4 tips for managing client relationships in a virtual world
With many businesses opting to rely on remote work technologies, channel partners need new strategies for managing client relationships.Continue Reading
3 tips to improve data management in the cloud
Many organizations face substantial challenges in collecting, storing and using data in the cloud. Here are three ways solution providers can help.Continue Reading
SAP modernization calls for varied skills, phased approach
SAP's partner ecosystem plays a role in legacy-system-to-cloud migration, moving customers away from aging hardware platforms such as mainframes and client-server systems.Continue Reading
Co-managed IT support sees demand in the remote work era
As businesses weather the pandemic, many organizations' IT departments find themselves pushed to the limits and in need of outside help. Enter co-managed IT support services.Continue Reading
Unified communications managed services evolve amid pandemic
Service-level agreements, management layers, incident tracking and governance are all part of the evolving cloud communications service provider business model.Continue Reading
How MSPs can build a post-merger integration team
Combining two companies is a complex undertaking, spanning employees, operations and line-of-business applications. An integration team ensures MSPs stay on task.Continue Reading
Yes, managed IT services can be offered via e-commerce
Not all MSPs believe using e-commerce is a good fit for their businesses. Dave Sobel argues the merits of adding an e-commerce option to existing sales and marketing methods.Continue Reading
VMware Cloud on AWS partners see ongoing opportunity
Rackspace Technology, Faction and Converge Technology Solutions help clients tap into VMware Cloud on AWS for a range of uses.Continue Reading
Auvik Networks explores network management's future
As network infrastructure becomes more complex, Auvik Networks aims to equip its MSP partners with tools for better visibility, cloud management and more.Continue Reading
IT services industry tweaks business models amid pandemic
MSPs and IT consultants have developed new services, emphasized cloud offerings and boosted cybersecurity capabilities to address COVID-19 and its effects on customers.Continue Reading
SaaS monitoring, management tools take shape for MSPs
A new category of SaaS monitoring and management software has emerged, designed specifically for MSPs and their small business clients. Learn why these tools matter.Continue Reading
MSPs tap Red Hat Ansible for managed services automation
IT services providers have deployed the Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform to minimize repetitive work and boost productivity -- even in uncertain times.Continue Reading
How cloud management tool sets can help MSPs
To tackle today's cloud management challenges, MSPs need new software tools and strategies. Find out why cloud management tool sets should be on MSPs' radars.Continue Reading
Partners guide clients on mainframe modernization strategy
The chore of revitalizing the mainframe involves a range of approaches and may call for modern languages, microservices and cloud migration, consultants and service providers said.Continue Reading
Azure Virtual Desktop partners find SMB deals
The economics of Microsoft's AVD has made virtual desktops more feasible for some smaller business, but partners said the technology scales to support enterprise clients.Continue Reading
Taking on today's free-for-all approach to higher ed tech
The rapid deployment of higher ed technology during the COVID-19 crisis has delivered mixed results. However, while challenges persist, the future looks bright.Continue Reading
What low-code/no-code and pro-code mean for providers
Dave Sobel talks with SeedCode CEO John Sindelar about the low-code/no-code movement and how providers should be thinking about building on platforms such as Salesforce.Continue Reading
Managed IT services market to grow more competitive in 2021
Kaseya Corp. predicts multiple opportunities for MSPs to expand their businesses next year, but it also points to a backdrop of uncertainty and intensifying competition.Continue Reading
MSP retools bank IT systems with HPE Nimble Storage dHCI
Faced with a strained IT infrastructure, Central Pacific Bank upgraded to Nimble Storage dHCI. Learn how solution provider Pacxa played a critical role in the project.Continue Reading
Cisco partners back software push, EA acceleration
Software development, simplicity and platforms are among the current channel watchwords at Cisco. Partners share their views on the vendor's latest initiatives.Continue Reading
HPE GreenLake partners to help Kern County take control of IT
Kern County, Calif., faced a daunting challenge of reigning in costs and a sprawling technology ecosystem. HPE GreenLake and MSP Nth Generation were brought in to help.Continue Reading
Multi-cloud services grow increasingly important for MSPs
As organizations expand their multi-cloud environments, they'll look to partners for support and expertise. It's time for the channel to board the multi-cloud train, experts say.Continue Reading
The importance of platforms and how MSPs can take advantage
Dave Sobel discusses Google's rebranding of G Suite to Google Workspace and how MSPs should focus on which platform they offer customers, not just operating systems.Continue Reading
6 tips for channel partner sales, marketing in turbulent times
The pandemic introduced a new set of challenges for channel partner sales and marketing. Here are six tips for how to better navigate today's complex business environment.Continue Reading
5 tips for building a successful MSP marketing strategy
MSPs need to develop a marketing strategy if they hope to grow beyond the startup stage. Industry executives share their views on everything to include in a marketing approach.Continue Reading
Key concepts of the MSP sales process
To grow a managed service provider business, companies must develop a consistent MSP sales process. Use these tips to build a strong sales arm for your business.Continue Reading
Colocation, managed services meet legacy needs, point to cloud
Colocation lacks the high profile of cloud computing, but it continues to meet customer needs. Some MSPs and cloud specialists incorporate colocation in their offerings.Continue Reading
Use an outcome-based relationship model to manage IT vendors
Company IT leaders shouldn't need to spend their time micromanaging IT vendors, which is where implementing an outcome-based relationship model comes into play.Continue Reading
Beware paying ransomware: How MSPs should protect companies
Dave Sobel and Joseph Brunsman discuss how paying ransomware attackers could have businesses run afoul of OFAC and what MSPs and solutions providers can do to help.Continue Reading
Tips for executing an SAP S/4HANA brownfield implementation
Executing an ECC-to-S/4HANA brownfield migration involves tools such as SAP's Maintenance Planner and Software Update Manager. Read on for insight into brownfield conversions.Continue Reading
4 MSP pricing strategies for clients facing financial deficits
When managed IT services customers face revenue shortfalls, MSPs don't have to respond by offering discounts and taking a loss. Consider these MSP pricing options first.Continue Reading
How to plan an SAP S/4HANA brownfield migration
SAP S/4HANA brownfield migrations aim to convert existing SAP environments without reimplementation. Find out how to prepare for this type of conversion.Continue Reading
Need for data management frameworks opens channel opportunities
Organizations with weak data management policies provide partners with opportunities to offer support. Insight Enterprises explains how it helps clients get a handle on their data.Continue Reading
CompTIA's lobbying efforts and how MSPs could self-regulate
CompTIA's Todd Thibodeaux talks with Dave Sobel about the current lobbying efforts by the MSP industry and how it could start self-regulating before more states follow Louisiana's lead.Continue Reading
Diversity in IT channel for 2020: It's time we take action
Dave Sobel looks to move beyond just discussing becoming more diverse in the workplace, with IT channel companies championing change and hiring more diverse leaders.Continue Reading
Remote work fuels identity and access management market
Channel partners have an opportunity to help customers adopt and implement identity and access management programs across their organizations. Learn more about IAM offerings.Continue Reading
4 tips for proper cyber hygiene during the remote workforce era
IT services firms have a responsibility to secure their clients' remote workforces. Here are four tips for maintaining cyber hygiene in the cloud, using AWS as an example.Continue Reading
Accenture cloud computing paves way for integration plan
Penelope Prett, CIO at Accenture, aims to provide employees a holistic user experience, taking advantage of cloud computing to integrate various technology tools.Continue Reading
Channel business exit strategies during uncertain times
The difficult economic climate wrought by the pandemic is making waves in the channel industry, with some MSPs having to decide whether to stay put or pursue an exit strategy.Continue Reading
Remote learning technology emerges as top ed market focus
MSPs and consultants say customers in the education vertical are ramping up distance learning systems as they prepare for the new school year amid the COVID-19 pandemic.Continue Reading
How to transform your existing MSP and be more competitive
We know what a brand-new MSP needs to get off the ground today, but Dave looks at what an existing managed service provider needs to adapt and succeed.Continue Reading
How MSPs and MSSPs should market cybersecurity to find success
It's time for MSPs and MSSPs to reevaluate how they sell their security solutions. Dave Sobel offers his recommendations, such as emphasizing the human aspect of cyber attacks.Continue Reading
Regulation is coming to MSPs, who will stand up and lead?
Louisiana was the first state to sign into law any sort of regulation around MSPs and MSSPs, but it won't be the last. Someone from within the industry must step up now.Continue Reading
MSP business model and financial lessons learned in pandemic
MSPs are facing financial uncertainty due to the pandemic. Industry experts offer advice on managing the pandemic's impact and preparing for hard times.Continue Reading
The only MSP marketing and sales advice you need to hear
To succeed at MSP marketing and sales is actually quite simple, Dave Sobel contends. He explains the best way to handle MSP marketing and sales.Continue Reading
Remote workforce management strategies for MSPs
Channel partners have been rethinking employee productivity, collaboration and skills development. Learn how Ensono, SADA Systems and AllCloud have adjusted their approaches.Continue Reading
How capital affects MSPs and technology services companies
Vendors that get acquired promise a lot of things but don't always deliver. Here are several recommendations to help MSPs and technology services companies adjust their strategies accordingly.Continue Reading
3 ways managed service providers can still succeed in 2020
MSPs that can best adapt to the changes 2020 has brought to the market are poised to survive the year and be in an excellent position to lead the way in 2021.Continue Reading
Digital transformation projects pick up pace under pressure
IT service providers see accelerating demand for cloud, data analytics, AI and automation as organizations face the challenge of retooling their operations as the economy reopens.Continue Reading
Channel partners' cloud opportunities see a boost
Cloud usage spiked In the first phase of pandemic as organizations rushed to retool operations. Going forward, partners should expect an uptick in cloud opportunities.Continue Reading
Ethical business in a world of distrust and big tech
As trust of big tech continues to drop, companies should consider collaborating and investing in their vertical with other organizations rather than just trying to outperform them.Continue Reading
SD-WAN for home workers becomes partner opportunity
SD-WAN technology is seeing increased customer interest due to the sudden expansion of remote workforces. IT service providers are offering product advice and implementation help.Continue Reading
Solution providers need to understand what customers think
With so much uncertainty during the pandemic, solution providers need to spend time learning about the current behavior of their clients' customers to better plan for the future.Continue Reading
Forecasting M&As for MSPs beyond COVID-19
COVID-19 has cooled M&As for managed service providers, but opportunities still exist. This forecast examines M&As for MSPs and provides a prescription for MSPs to stay healthy.Continue Reading
OST helps grill maker migrate connected products
Traeger Grills asked a managed service provider to migrate its IoT-enabled grillers to a new cloud platform. The four-month transition has Traeger cooking with AWS.Continue Reading
Windward Consulting accelerates managed services
Windward Consulting wasn't initially enthused with managed services, but now the company is adding MSP offerings around platforms such as ServiceNow, Splunk, IBM and Moogsoft.Continue Reading
MSP staffing strategies change during a pandemic
The overall economic and employment impact of coronavirus is affecting service provider staffing -- some more than others, if at all. See why and gain tips to help with hiring.Continue Reading
Data, not opinion, should drive MSP best practices
Dave Sobel breaks down why business leaders must use data instead of personal opinion to guide their business decisions and shares best practices for data-driven decision-making.Continue Reading
Effects of COVID-19 on channel partners
New research on solution and service providers reveals how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting business plans and technology priorities for the coming months.Continue Reading
Healthcare cloud adoption may be turning another corner
Healthcare cloud adoption has grown at a relatively slow pace, but experts say the tempo is poised to speed up. Learn how channel partners can support hybrid cloud environments.Continue Reading
How managed service operations are adapting to a pandemic
IT service providers are deeply involved in curbing the pandemic's disruptions to U.S. businesses. Learn how companies have uncovered hidden strengths and new service offerings.Continue Reading
How channel partners navigate the security vendor landscape
Channel firms, whether new to or experienced with cybersecurity, must avoid numerous pitfalls when purchasing security products. Read these tips for selecting the best technology.Continue Reading
Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA)
The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) is a component of the United States Department of Defense (DoD) that works with defense contractors to ensure government services and supplies are delivered on time, come at the expected cost and satisfy...Continue Reading
MSPAlliance: What's next for the managed services industry
In part two of our interview with the CEO of MSPAlliance, we discuss the continued influence of cybersecurity on the managed services industry and the opportunities that lay ahead.Continue Reading
Top tips for providing co-managed IT services
Co-managed IT services give MSPs an opportunity to partner with the internal IT staff of their clients. Get insight into how to successfully implement a CoMITS offering.Continue Reading
Respond Software revamps SOC staffing, MDR at MSSP
A managed security services provider is using a virtual analyst product from Respond Software that reduces the need for level-1 analysts and finds attacks other platforms miss.Continue Reading
Cloud managed services beyond the beaten path
Accenture, CDS and Modern Systems are developing cloud-related services and approaches at the periphery of traditional offerings, which points the way to portfolio differentiation.Continue Reading
Accenture: How to tackle cloud service management issues
An Accenture study found that many organizations have yet to reach their cloud computing objectives. Here are tips for tackling cloud sprawl and other management challenges.Continue Reading