Manage

Manage

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

• 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

• Windows Virtual Desktop partners find SMB deals

  The economics of Microsoft's WVD 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

• Container adoption accelerates, consulting execs say

  The potential to massively speed up software cycle time is generating more container technology demand for channel partners, particularly in the new app development field.Continue Reading

• MSP automation taps PowerShell as multi-tool

  As MSP automation becomes increasingly important amid complex customer environments, service providers have turned to PowerShell as a flexible multi-tool.Continue Reading

• Desktop-as-a-service combo targets channel via Ingram Micro

  Citrix, IGEL and Ingram Micro are collaborating on a desktop-as-a-service offering, which could provide channel partners with a mechanism for replacing clients' Windows 7 desktops.Continue Reading

• MBX Systems reinvents itself in computer hardware manufacturing

  Twenty-five-year-old MBX Systems, a computer hardware manufacturer, is an example of how technology companies can continually adapt to the ever-changing marketplace. In 1995, the organization ...Continue Reading

• MSP software vendors play catch-up with security threats

  Hackers have exploited MSP software tools such as remote monitoring and management as a conduit for cyberattacks, leading some vendors to issue new security measures and resources.Continue Reading

• PowerShell automation helps MSPs, but with some caveats

  PowerShell scripting can help MSPs automate mundane and time-consuming chores, but service providers need to test their scripts and look to security first.Continue Reading

• Cybersecurity puts managed services industry at a crossroads

  MSP software vendor ConnectWise's annual IT Nation Connect event revealed the pressures managed service providers are under to transition to advanced cybersecurity.Continue Reading

• Single cloud counters multi-cloud trend among MSPs

  For some services providers, focusing resources on one cloud platform makes more sense than distributing resources across two or more public cloud environments.Continue Reading

• Channel partner account manager role is due for a refresh

  As change continues to sweep through the IT industry and channel ecosystem, vendors need to evolve the functions of partner account managers to keep up with the times.Continue Reading

• Channel firms take on multi-cloud management challenges

  As enterprise customers begin to grapple with the complexities of multi-cloud environments, channel partners have found a role in reining in and optimizing cloud spending.Continue Reading

• Digital process automation: Bonitasoft tool boosts BPM work

  Digital process automation technology is playing a key role in enabling business process management projects for one IT services firm.Continue Reading

• Office 365 managed services call for workflow, vertical skills

  Subscription business models, a focus on automating workflow and becoming a thought leader are important for taking advantage of the Microsoft Office 365 opportunity.Continue Reading

• MSP business expansion driven by cybersecurity, consulting

  MSPs are under pressure to expand their businesses beyond their traditional offerings. Cybersecurity and consulting services are two directions they can take their businesses.Continue Reading

• Managed Azure services hotspots span optimization to AI

  Demand for Microsoft Azure services ranges from cost optimization to AI services, according to service providers looking for business in this public cloud platform.Continue Reading

• The NetApp subscription model explained: A partner primer

  The NetApp subscription model opens opportunities for recurring revenue and renewable customers, but only if NetApp partners focus on successful technology adoption.Continue Reading

• Partners weigh prospects of NVMe storage market

  While NVMe technology has yet to gain the customer traction that industry watchers expected, channel partners believe it will become the de facto standard.Continue Reading

• Grant Thornton LLP taps Rightpoint for digital workspace

  Grant Thornton LLP, a professional services firm, got an assist from Rightpoint on a digital workspace project that breathed new life into an aging intranet system.Continue Reading

• Cognilytica expands on CRISP DM model for AI project management

  As AI projects become commonplace, channel partners may need to find a way to manage them. Cognilytica offers one approach that draws upon the CRISP DM modelContinue Reading

• MDR services evolve into distinct security service offering

  MDR services are developing into a new category of cybersecurity offering for channel partners. Learn how MDR providers take a different approach from traditional MSSPs.Continue Reading

• hardware-as-a-service (in managed services)

  Hardware-as-a-service (HaaS) is a procurement model that is similar to leasing or licensing in which hardware that belongs to a managed service provider (MSP) is installed at a customer's site and a service level agreement (SLA) defines the ...Continue Reading

• Sensu targets MSPs with multi-cloud monitoring, multi-tenancy

  Sensu's multi-cloud monitoring tool has been redesigned to support multi-tenancy, a plus for managed service providers.Continue Reading

• How to install and configure vCenter Update Manager

  Follow these steps to install and configure VMware vCenter Update Manager, which can help solution providers with patching hosts and virtual machines.Continue Reading

• managed service provider (MSP)

  A managed service provider (MSP) is a company that remotely manages a customer's IT infrastructure and/or end-user systems, typically on a proactive basis and under a subscription model.Continue Reading

• Assured DP partners with Rubrik, Equinix in DraaS twist

  Assured DP is putting its own stamp on the disaster recovery-as-a-service market, creating a DRaaS offering through a partnership with Rubrik and Equinix.Continue Reading

• Green House Data on becoming a Microsoft Azure Expert MSP

  The task of becoming a Microsoft Azure Expert MSP, under a Microsoft partner program launched in 2018, is rigorous and time-consuming. Just ask Green House Data.Continue Reading

• MSP software takes a different turn in ServiceNow-LogicMonitor link

  MSP software comes in various forms and combinations. Some larger MSPs are adopting ServiceNow and LogicMonitor to automate core business functions.Continue Reading

• Self-service analytics at Accenture boosts knowledge workers

  Accenture's enterprise analytics and AI models are helping the firm on a number of fronts, including determining sales opportunities, pricing deals and complying with internal and customer expense policies.Continue Reading

• MSP business model moves toward three key staples

  The developing MSP business model is showing some of the characteristics of an ancient agricultural technique. Find out how service providers are cultivating business.Continue Reading

• Keep a digital transformation strategy humming with these practices

  A digital transformation strategy starts with a client's vision and a focus on business outcomes. Find out what's working for Insight Enterprises and its clients.Continue Reading

• Generations in the workplace and how to manage them

  Managing different generations in the workplace calls for a clearer understanding of their characteristics, which will then help shape recruitment and retention strategies.Continue Reading

• Managed services companies upbeat despite economic signals

  At MSPWorld, managed services executives expressed guarded optimism regarding MSP market prospects and growth potential, despite some economic concerns.Continue Reading

• Accenture adds Google to multi-cloud strategy

  Accenture IT is embracing a multi-cloud management approach, providing an example for clients exploring the use of more than one public cloud platform.Continue Reading