{"id":4889,"date":"2023-07-27T15:15:54","date_gmt":"2023-07-27T20:15:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889"},"modified":"2026-07-13T05:20:34","modified_gmt":"2026-07-13T10:20:34","slug":"three-steps-an-smb-should-take-to-get-the-most-out-of-an-msp","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889","title":{"rendered":"Three Steps an SMB Should Take to Get The Most Out Of An MSP"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<style type=\"text\/css\" data-created_by=\"avia_inline_auto\" id=\"style-css-av-85bp3-f856194ef33e7bc72ec0d3bf98278fce\">\n.flex_column.av-85bp3-f856194ef33e7bc72ec0d3bf98278fce{\nborder-radius:0px 0px 0px 0px;\npadding:0px 0px 0px 0px;\n}\n<\/style>\n<div  class='flex_column av-85bp3-f856194ef33e7bc72ec0d3bf98278fce av_one_full  avia-builder-el-0  avia-builder-el-no-sibling  first flex_column_div av-zero-column-padding  '     ><p><br \/>\n<section  class='av_textblock_section av-k0pon615-92ea21455f84089b14b66129c69212c2 '  ><div class='avia_textblock' ><h1>Three Steps an SMB Should Take to Get The Most from Its MSP<\/h1>\n<\/div><\/section><br \/>\n<section  class='av_textblock_section av-k0pop9td-bbcbe599b29853166e54fa81e9bef78a '  ><div class='avia_textblock' ><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Whenever a business works with an outside service provider, challenges inevitably arise. Vendor relationships don\u2019t usually automatically just work as effectively as possible. Typically, planning and effort are required. This truth is particularly applicable to small and medium businesses (SMBs) working with outside information technology (IT) partners, including managed service providers (MSPs) that often fulfill a wide range of technology responsibilities\u2014including user and desktop support, <a href=\"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/it-services\/cloud-services\/\">cloud services<\/a>, hardware procurement, application support, <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/it-services\/network-management\/\">network management<\/a>, cybersecurity protections and server administration.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Whether seeking to responsibly manage expenses, enhance productivity, enable new capabilities, better organize and coordinate operations, introduce efficiencies or improve specific results, here are three steps your SMB should take to ensure its receives the best results from its MSP.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Set and Maintain Clear Expectations<\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Perhaps the most important step your business can take when working with a vendor is setting clear goals and expectations. There should be no confusion regarding the relationship\u2019s objectives and purpose.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When accommodating the myriad technology demands contemporary workplaces require, there\u2019s almost always a need to prioritize initiatives and corresponding elements. A balance must be struck considering the many various tasks and responsibilities that must be managed at any given moment. While those burdens apply whether your SMB is working with an accounting group, bank, law firm or other professional services outfit, partnering with a technology services firm is an even more complex endeavor that places additional pressures on the relationship.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Consider all the operational responsibilities technology providers fulfill and the impact each potentially has on your SMB\u2019s daily operations, cash flow, production and profitability:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Email and messaging administration<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Internet and network connectivity and performance management<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Telephony operations<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">User administration and support<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Server and patch management<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cybersecurity protections<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Website operations<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">E-commerce capabilities<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Application development, maintenance and support<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Disaster planning and recovery<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cloud services<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Procurement and provisioning<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Only by setting clear goals and assigning specific performance metrics can your organization ensure its service and performance expectations are effectively communicated to its technology service partner and properly understood. Objective metrics, often described as key performance indicators (KPIs), provide additional value in that they define specific performance objectives and are measurable. MSPs can provide analytic reports to definitively demonstrate, with no emotion or subjectivity, whether those goals are being met.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Examples of KPIs SMBs commonly request and implement with MSPs to encourage proper operations, track performance and confirm the vendor relationship remains healthy include:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Network uptime \u2013<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> A measurement of the time a network is up and operating properly.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mean time to respond, or response time \u2013<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> The average time the MSP requires to begin working a service request or problem.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mean time to repair, or resolution time \u2013<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> The average time required to resolve service requests and issues.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">First call resolution \u2013<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> The percentage of service requests resolved after the first service call.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Patch management compliance \u2013 The<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> percentage of devices compliant with the prescribed patch goal.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Antivirus coverage \u2013 <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The percentage of systems and devices possessing current antimalware protection.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Backup success \u2013<\/span><\/b> The <span data-contrast=\"auto\">rate at which data backups are succeeding versus failing.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Security incidents \u2013<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> The overall number of reported cybersecurity incidents.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Client satisfaction ratings \u2013<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> The rating the SMB\u2019s users provide the services they receive from the technology provider.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Technical staff utilization \u2013<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> The percentage of time the MSP\u2019s technical staff members are utilized servicing client projects.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ticket volume \u2013<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> The number of newly created service tickets, the number of resolved tickets and the number of tickets overdue for resolution.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Service Level Agreement (SLA) compliance \u2013<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> The rate at which the MSP is addressing and resolving tickets and maintaining network uptime compared to previously determined commitments.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">By setting hard and fast commitments, and by regularly reporting and reviewing the MSP\u2019s continual performance, your SMB can help ensure its technology goals are being met and service remains within required parameters. Thanks to the employment of objective performance measurements, both MSPs and SMBs benefit by being able to discuss any potential issues and frustrations using unemotional and objective metrics, which can be further compared to industry standards to help ensure expectations remain reasonable on both sides.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Prioritize Continual Communication<\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Another important step your business should adopt when working with any vendor is investing in healthy, continual communication. Due to the nuances and complexities associated with managing IT infrastructure, and the importance technologies fulfill powering daily production and operations, this is a particularly critical step for your SMB to prioritize when working with an MSP.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Neither party should be left guessing as to whether expectations are being met, service is being provided as needed, products and services are operating as intended and capabilities match requirements. Neither should there be any confusion regarding projects proceeding as anticipated and according to predetermined budgets.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Talking regularly, even informally over text or by instant message, can pay significant dividends managing expectations, resolving roadblocks and maintaining a constructive relationship. There\u2019s still no substitute, though, for meeting in person or via virtual meetings, such as when key contacts are traveling or working from different locations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Conducting regular if even informal meetings to discuss roles, processes and results is important and assists maintaining forward momentum. Further, also performing formal quarterly reviews, holding routine operations consultations and dedicating time to coordinating project status meetings all go a long way helping prevent small problems from multiplying and morphing into larger, more intractable issues. Such meetings are also necessary to keep complex projects on track, confirm consensus when changes and adjustments are required and ensure discrepancies are promptly addressed and resolved.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Such communication should be open and honest. Your organization will be best served when it does not delay delivering difficult news or information. The sooner problems are surfaced and resolved, the better. Avoiding conflict only delays the inevitable and enables difficulties to grow in size and scale. This is an especially potent problem when important and complex technologies are in play. Timely and constructive feedback is one of the single most important processes in determining a vendor\u2019s success, including MSPs, so your organization should prioritize continual communication.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Fortunately, not all meetings must be pressured-filled and intense. There\u2019s nothing wrong with meeting for lunch and enjoying a meal together. If such conferences permit mutual brainstorming, provide an opportunity to gauge and confirm the relationship\u2019s status, address important issues and answer questions, it\u2019s time well spent. In fact, lunch meetings often introduce an informality that makes it easier for attendees to relax, speak freely and work cooperatively to build a stronger partnership.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0Invest in a long-term relationship<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Partnerships that build and grow over time tend to provide the most reward. Just as obtaining a new customer is more expensive than retaining an existing client, establishing a long-term vendor relationship is typically more constructive than repeatedly cycling through service providers, a process that can prove both expensive and disruptive.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Numerous advantages are commonly associated with building long-term vendor relationships. They include:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Continual performance and productivity improvements as a vendor learns your organization\u2019s unique needs.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Constructive knowledge transfer that assists your vendor in better understanding and empowering your organization\u2019s success more cost effectively.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Increased trust that breads your vendor\u2019s goodwill and willingness to compromise.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"0\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reduced switching costs resulting from your organization no longer needing to continually evaluate new vendors, services and products and establish new relationships.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This is not new news. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/hbr.org\/2020\/03\/rethink-your-relationship-with-your-vendors\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">A 2020 <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Harvard Business Review<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"none\"> article<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> warns against abusing vendors, viewing service partners as easily replaceable and maintaining distance within such relationships.\u00a0 While noting those approaches previously helped manage expenses, the article confirms vendors are now more likely to be individual contributors or small professional teams that can have outsized impact on your organization\u2019s operations. Instead of beating up on partners, the piece recommends treating vendors like employees and viewing negotiations as win-win scenarios, sentiments supported by numerous other writings on the subject.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Of course, it\u2019s important your organization chooses the right MSP, too, one that\u2019s invested in learning your SMB\u2019s needs and requirements and developing and implementing solutions within a matching budget. It\u2019s also important the MSP understands and respects your SMB\u2019s culture and proves a good fit, not a painful and poorly grafted addition.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cio.com\/article\/191641\/8-ways-to-get-the-most-from-your-managed-service-provider.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">In its own article<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> on methods for getting the most out of your managed service provider, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cio.com\/\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">CIO Magazine<\/span><\/i><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> recommends seeking a partner, not just a provider. The publication popular among business executives includes a quote from a technology management consulting firm founder stating businesses should \u201cwant an MSP that\u2019s not just interested in standard break\/fix approaches, but also strategic planning for your business to ensure that you stay competitive.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Subsequently, strive to establish a long-term partnership. Time and energy lost repeatedly bringing another technology partner up to speed robs efficiencies and jeopardizes productivity and morale.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Organizations that frequently change vendors should ask hard questions regarding why multiple partners have proven unsuccessful. Is it possible the SMB\u2019s needs, expectations and budget are experiencing a serious mismatch?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As previously noted, set objective metrics that can be used to unemotionally measure the partner\u2019s success, and schedule regular meetings and reviews to confirm service and support are working as both parties intend. These steps pay dividends by encouraging and building healthy and constructive long-term partnerships.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Need Help Improving your Technology Services and Support?<\/h2>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">If your SMB is struggling <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">to build <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">a constructive and productive relationship with a technology provider, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">let us know. You can reach Louisville Geek by calling 502-897-7577 or <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">emailing <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW82700798 BCX0\" href=\"mailto:sales@lougeek.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW82700798 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">sales@lougeek.com<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">We\u2019re<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\"> happy to review your organization\u2019s <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">goals <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">and propose options for best addressing <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">your <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW82700798 BCX0\">needs.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW82700798 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/section><\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4892,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4889","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-geek-news"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>3 Steps to Get the Most Out of Your MSP<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"MSPs can help with a variety of technology-related tasks, but it&#039;s important to set clear expectations and communicate regularly to ensure you&#039;re getting the best possible service.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"3 Steps to Get the Most Out of Your MSP\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"MSPs can help with a variety of technology-related tasks, but it&#039;s important to set clear expectations and communicate regularly to ensure you&#039;re getting the best possible service.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Louisville Geek\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-07-27T20:15:54+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-07-13T10:20:34+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Shutterstock_2004089693-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1933\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"LouGeek Marketing\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"LouGeek Marketing\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"3 Steps to Get the Most Out of Your MSP","description":"MSPs can help with a variety of technology-related tasks, but it's important to set clear expectations and communicate regularly to ensure you're getting the best possible service.","robots":{"index":"noindex","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"3 Steps to Get the Most Out of Your MSP","og_description":"MSPs can help with a variety of technology-related tasks, but it's important to set clear expectations and communicate regularly to ensure you're getting the best possible service.","og_url":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889","og_site_name":"Louisville Geek","article_published_time":"2023-07-27T20:15:54+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-07-13T10:20:34+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2560,"height":1933,"url":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Shutterstock_2004089693-scaled.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"LouGeek Marketing","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"LouGeek Marketing","Est. reading time":"7 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889"},"author":{"name":"LouGeek Marketing","@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/#\/schema\/person\/a381cd0bd66b806f0da449297a82ce8a"},"headline":"Three Steps an SMB Should Take to Get The Most Out Of An MSP","datePublished":"2023-07-27T20:15:54+00:00","dateModified":"2026-07-13T10:20:34+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889"},"wordCount":1882,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Shutterstock_2004089693-scaled.jpg","articleSection":["Geek News"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889","url":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889","name":"3 Steps to Get the Most Out of Your MSP","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Shutterstock_2004089693-scaled.jpg","datePublished":"2023-07-27T20:15:54+00:00","dateModified":"2026-07-13T10:20:34+00:00","description":"MSPs can help with a variety of technology-related tasks, but it's important to set clear expectations and communicate regularly to ensure you're getting the best possible service.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Shutterstock_2004089693-scaled.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Shutterstock_2004089693-scaled.jpg","width":2560,"height":1933},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?p=4889#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Three Steps an SMB Should Take to Get The Most Out Of An MSP"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/#website","url":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/","name":"Louisville Geek","description":"Empowering Local Businesses and National Enterprises with Comprehensive IT Services","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/#organization","name":"Louisville Geek","url":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/lougeek_full_logo-black-1.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/lougeek_full_logo-black-1.png","width":1671,"height":506,"caption":"Louisville Geek"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/#\/schema\/person\/a381cd0bd66b806f0da449297a82ce8a","name":"LouGeek Marketing","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/865f8a8b853c689f8443338c8f8d08b8e9a9f0bcab6dcd97b1cb63a5efeda3fa?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/865f8a8b853c689f8443338c8f8d08b8e9a9f0bcab6dcd97b1cb63a5efeda3fa?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/865f8a8b853c689f8443338c8f8d08b8e9a9f0bcab6dcd97b1cb63a5efeda3fa?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"LouGeek Marketing"},"url":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/?author=2"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4889","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=4889"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4889\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4891,"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4889\/revisions\/4891"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/4892"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=4889"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=4889"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lg-staging.lougcloud.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=4889"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}