MSP Software Integrations: Read the Fine Print
Much like operating systems that have broad application support, MSP software platforms (RMM and PSA tools) potentially gain value as more applications plug into them. But are all integrations created equally? Certainly not. Here’s why you have to read the fine print in the managed services software market.
First, let’s start with the news: VaultLogix, the online backup offering, now integrates with ConnectWise, the professional services automation (PSA) platform. And Axcient, a business continuity platform, now integrates with N-able, the remote monitoring and management platform. Check in with each vendor, and I’m sure they’ll describe the level of integration in deeper detail.
Announcements like the ones above are commonplace in the industry. Generally speaking, MSPmentor receives at two to three integration announcements per week. And we certainly welcome the announcements, because they reinforce the fact that software providers are focused on interoperability for MSPs and VARs.
Now, for a broader recommendation: When you’re evaluating tools and integrations, check to see which vendor’s APIs (application programming interfaces) were used to write the integration. Then, check around the industry to learn how well those APIs are maintained and promoted. Some integrations involve quick hacks that offer only basic interoperability. Other integrations involve deep integration work and well-documented APIs.
As we all know, not all partnerships are created equally. Take a look at the API information and you may discover just how closely software companies are working together.
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Spoken for TRUTH!!
You said, “When you’re evaluating tools and integrations, check to see which vendor’s APIs (application programming interfaces) were used to write the integration. Then, check around the industry to learn how well those APIs are maintained and promoted. Some integrations involve quick hacks that offer only basic interoperability. Other integrations involve deep integration work and well-documented APIs.”
I say AWESOME advice Joe! Autotask has long considered our well documented and open API to be our strategic advantage. This is time in our channel where technical innovation, coupled with newly evolving business models, has collided with an economic “reset”. A time where the synergy of partnerships forged between competing and complimenting VARs and their respective vendors will mean the difference between success or failure for many. We believe that Autotask, as the leading hosted IT Business Management System, is very much positioned to be a catalyst and support system for many of those partnerships. Each day we handle multiple inquisitions from prospective integration partners. We know that when two vendors integrate for the sake of their mutual customers everyone wins!
Mark Crall
Exec. Dir of Biz Dev @ Autotask
Great points, Joe. VaultLogix is proud to say that we are the first online backup partner to use the official ConnectWise MSP API suite. This aligns us strategically with ConnectWise and ensures that we will continue to be integrated as they enhance and upgrade their APIs.
And I promise I did not prep Joe to write this blog!
Shane Arnold
VP, Marketing amp; Product Management
Shane, Mark: Thanks for weighing in.
Readers: Just a reminder … I just “write” about APIs and tools. I don’t actually use them. So, I’m not in a position to say which software integrations truly work as advertised and which ones don’t. But I hope the spirit of the blog entry reminds readers to look under the covers as they consider their integration options.
-jp
Joe,
I believe Axient should be Axcient (www.axcient.com)
Ryan: Sorry for my error. Link/name has been fixed. Thanks for the correction.
-jp