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The Top 10 WWAN MSP Selection Criteria for VARs, IT Resellers, and Telecom Agents
When choosing a WWAN focused managed service provider (MSP) to improve your product offering and profitability, an IT reseller, VARs, telecom agents, and ISPs should consider several important factors.
Expertise and Experience
Assess the MSP's WWAN expertise and services that align with or complement your existing product offerings. Look at their vendor portfolio, certifications, and experience in managing the solutions or serving clients in your vertical or market segment. Their technical knowledge and skill set should always match or exceed your requirements as the goal is to improve the breadth and depth of your offering.
Service Portfolio
Evaluate the range of services offered by the MSP. Ensure they provide the specific managed services you require to enhance your product offering. Look for services such as infrastructure management, network monitoring, security solutions, data backup and recovery, cloud services, configuration, activation, and technical support.
Reliability and Performance
A reliable MSP should have robust infrastructure, redundant systems, and proactive monitoring capabilities. Assess their track record in delivering consistent service uptime, meeting SLAs (Service Level Agreements), and providing prompt issue resolution through their own service and support technicians based in locations friendly to your geographic presence. Look for testimonials or case studies that demonstrate their performance.
Scalability and Flexibility
Consider whether the MSP can accommodate your business growth and adapt to changing needs. As an IT reseller, you may require the MSP to scale services up or down based on customer demand. Ensure the MSP can handle your evolving requirements without compromising quality.
Security Measures
Network and Data security is crucial. Evaluate the MSP's security protocols, vulnerability management, and disaster recovery capabilities. Ask about their solution compliance with industry regulations and how they address potential risks and cyber threats.
Pricing and Cost Structure
Understand the MSP's pricing model and ensure it aligns with your budget and profitability goals. Assess the overall value you will receive from their services. Look for transparency in pricing and clarity on additional costs, such as setup fees, upgrades, or overage charges.
Support and Communication
Assess the MSP's support channels, response times, and availability. Quick and reliable support is vital to address any network connectivity issues promptly. Clear communication and a dedicated account manager can help foster a strong partnership and ensure smooth collaboration.
Partnerships and Certifications
Investigate the MSP's partnerships with technology vendors, as it can indicate their commitment to quality and access to necessary resources. Certifications from reputable organizations (e.g., Cradlepoint, AT&T, or Verizon) can also validate their expertise.
References and Reputation
Seek recommendations or reviews from other IT resellers who have worked with the MSP. Check online reviews, testimonials, or case studies. A positive reputation and a proven track record can give you confidence in their capabilities.
Long-Term Vision and Innovation
Consider the MSP's future plans, investments in research and development, and their ability to stay up-to-date with emerging technologies. An MSP that can adapt to industry trends and offers innovative solutions may contribute to your long-term success.
Remember to conduct thorough due diligence, schedule meetings or demos, and ask specific questions to evaluate how well the MSP aligns with your business objectives. A strong partnership with the right MSP can enhance your product offering, improve customer satisfaction, and drive profitability.
