Managed service provider (MSP) business model

Get the information you need to stay on top of the rapidly evolving managed services sector. News, tips and trend pieces cover the challenges of MSP business model transformation.

August 02, 2018 02 Aug'18
ChannelCon 2018: MSPs face operational growing pains

Operational efficiency improvement is an important step for a growing MSP, but one that can prove difficult to take, according to industry executives at ChannelCon 2018.
July 19, 2018 19 Jul'18
SolarWinds: MSP Pulse can shed light on business transformation

SolarWinds MSP believes channel partners targeting the managed services model can gain insight into their transition using a new benchmarking tool dubbed MSP Pulse.
June 20, 2018 20 Jun'18
DattoCon 2018: Focus on MSPs poised for SMB growth

The MSP industry has good prospects for growth in the SMB space as company valuations increase, but the firms with the greatest focus are more likely to reap the rewards.
February 23, 2018 23 Feb'18
ConvergeOne goes public, targets cloud skills

Cloud consulting services is one area IT service provider ConvergeOne would like to reinforce as it pursues business as a publicly traded enterprise.

Bring yourself up to speed with our introductory content

IT consultant

A consultant is an experienced individual in a given field who provides expert advice for a fee. Consultants typically work as independent contractors and are hired on a short-term basis. A consultant may also be an employee at a consulting firm. Continue Reading
channel partner

A channel partner is a person or organization that provides services or sells products on behalf of a software, hardware, networking or cloud services vendor. Value-added resellers (VARs), systems integrators (SIs), consultants, managed service ... Continue Reading
2019 channel partner events to mark on your calendar

When making 2019 travel plans, refer to this list of channel-focused events and conferences hosted by IT vendors, distributors, industry organizations and vendors that cater to VARs and MSPs. Continue Reading

Weigh the pros and cons of technologies, products and projects you are considering.

Is the master MSP business model still relevant?

Master MSPs emerged more than a decade ago as a means for channel firms to develop managed services, but experts are split on whether the traditional model continues to hold sway. Continue Reading
Unconventional rivals to challenge IT channel companies

Channel companies in 2019 may find themselves weighing the merits of ISV partnerships versus the possibility of developing their own software lines of business. Continue Reading
Liability insurance policies: Tips for covering MSP businesses

With the IT landscape growing more complex, liability insurance policies may be a necessity for MSPs. But MSPs should ensure they get the right coverage for their business model. Continue Reading

Learn to apply best practices and optimize your operations.

How to revamp your managed services pricing for predictable revenue

Many MSPs still rely heavily on an hourly billing rate and cost-plus pricing. Michael Backers, an MSPAlliance board member, offers advice on moving to managed services pricing. Continue Reading
MSP market rides M&A momentum into 2019

Last year's mergers and acquisitions spree looks set to continue into 2019, as buyers look for geographic reach and skills that span multiple public cloud platforms. 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

We’ve gathered up expert advice and tips from professionals like you so that the answers you need are always available.

How to succeed at managed services marketing

The marketing formula at service provider DynTek includes executive briefings, messaging around innovation and transformation, and a blend of traditional and digital techniques. Continue Reading
Vology's transition toward an integrator business model

Vology has used a combination of acquisitions and organic growth as it transitions from a product-oriented approach to an IT services provider business model. Continue Reading
MDF funds: How MSPs can get their cut of the marketing money

Market development funds are there for the asking. Learning the details of individual programs -- and demonstrating sales and technical strength -- can help you get your share Continue Reading