How to Capitalize on Private Cloud and Make Money Selling BDR

By Intronis Guest Blog 2

A common belief throughout the IT industry is that public cloud is cheaper. While this is true in some cases, oftentimes the trade-off for a lower upfront price point is spotty customer service, limited features and availability, and lower security thresholds. Where consumers are concerned, these may not be deal-breakers, but businesses need the capabilities, performance and IT security only private cloud
can provide.

For example, some of the key business benefits afforded by private cloud are the “always on” IT security updates and the ability to reallocate resources quickly as the needs of the business evolve. Furthermore, for businesses, switching to private cloud can save time and money because it is less of a hassle and more cost-effective than purchasing or hosting servers and infrastructure equipment.

The benefits of cloud services are opening up opportunities for MSPs and solution providers to expand their businesses and create new revenue streams when they sell and support private cloud solutions as part of their overall service offerings. Earlier this month, the MSPAlliance put a stake in the ground with its 2015 Managed Services Predictions, stating that “the real money is still in private cloud,” and that “2015 could change everything related to private cloud.”

Recent studies point to private cloud computing as the preferred choice over managed public cloud solutions. And, according to Technology Business Research’s (TBR’s) Private Cloud Customer Research Report,  the vendor opportunity in the private cloud market is expected to grow from $41 billion in 2014 to $69 billion in 2018, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14 percent annually.

One example of how you, as an MSP or solution provider, can take advantage of this growth in private cloud is through cloud-based backup and disaster recovery (BDR). If you don’t already offer cloud-based BDR, there are several reasons why you should consider this service as part of your managed services portfolio:

The good news for MSPs and solution providers is that the barrier for entry into the cloud backup market is low, given that you don’t need to purchase or host your own servers and other equipment. And, with the right solution in place, regardless of the size of your business or your level of expertise, you can quickly start generating recurring revenues and grow their businesses with cloud-based BDR. 

Here are four straightforward steps that can help you build a successful managed services business around cloud-based BDR and capitalize on the opportunities available through private cloud:

1)   

While the debate still continues as to which is more profitable–public or private cloud–we know from experience that cloud BDR is a great way for MSPs and solution providers to grow their businesses and create recurring revenue streams. For more guidance on best practices for selling cloud-based backup and disaster recovery solutions, download The Ultimate Guide to Selling Cloud Backup today.

Rob Merklinger is vice president of sales at Intronis, Boston-based provider of world-class backup and data protection solutions for the IT channel, and is an experienced software sales leader with a proven track record for driving success and developing sales talent. Guest blogs such as this one are published monthly and are part of MSPmentor’s annual platinum sponsorship.