Managed service providers (MSPs) are technology specialists. As experts in hardware and software, MSPs always stay current on the latest tech. Their reputation is built on an understanding that they are constantly finding new ways to implement technology to deliver the best solutions. MSPs are also part of a close-knit community where they’re willing to share ideas, best practices, and suggestions with each other.
When compared at a high level, it is understandable that the most popular RMM tools are viewed as basically doing the same thing. They all patch, automate scripts, have remote control, take inventory of the environment, monitor, generate alerts, integrate with PSAs, and so on. The differences between them are more subtle and nuanced but are becoming less important as deciding factors.
MSPs who evaluate RMMs based on their technical functionality often choose to sacrifice some of that technical capability in favor of solving other pressing challenges. The decision then comes down to evaluating the cost difference, which may be difficult to justify, for trading off marginal functionality.
There are numerous channels, forums, groups, and events where MSPs congregate to learn from each other and further their expertise on the technology they implement, both within their clients’ environments and their own businesses. Any MSP-focused community will invariably find a cross-section of new, emerging, and veteran MSPs exchanging notes on what technology to use, how to use it best, and what to steer clear of. Here are five tips to help get you started:
The features that have attracted an MSP to an RMM solution in the past are not the same that are retaining them as customers today. As the MSP market continues to mature and MSPs become more knowledgeable through their communities, the experiences of peers are more influential than the words on vendors’ websites. What MSPs prefer for their RMM solution is shifting away from the technical features and ultra-powerful tools toward solutions that actively deliver on a vision, sustain a strong architecture that is capable of growing well into the future, is enjoyable to use by everyone in the organization while keeping their customers safe from persistent threats, and is backed by a vendor who deeply understands and is empathetic to their needs.
To learn more about what MSPs should seek in an RMM solution, download Datto’s eBook, Choosing an RMM Solution: 5 Factors for MSPs to Consider. Check it out today.
Author Michael Bienvenue is product marketing manager for Datto RMM. Read all Datto blogs here.
