Manage

Manage

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

• 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

• Generative AI upskilling demands multiple methods, partners

  Global IT consultancies take a multilayered approach to GenAI training by developing in-house programs, partnering with tech vendors and tapping online training platforms. Continue Reading

• Partners' generative AI training plans aim for 1M+ employees

  IT service providers are upskilling a large portion of their workforces on the emerging technology. The campaign seeks to boost GenAI credibility with customers and tech vendors. Continue Reading

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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