Should a managed service provider (MSP) offer remote IT support to customers? Here's a closer look at some of the reasons why businesses may prefer remote IT support to onsite support.

Dan Kobialka, Contributing writer

January 19, 2016

1 Min Read
What Are Some of the Benefits of Remote IT Services?

Should a managed service provider offer remote IT support to customers? 

A new eBook from IT services provider NSI TotalCare examined some of the reasons why businesses may prefer remote IT support to onsite support

NSI noted companies may choose remote IT support for a number of reasons, including:

  • Remote IT services typically cost less than onsite services. 

  • Having a remote service available empowers employees to call for assistance immediately, which reduces delays.

  • Remote IT service providers often charge a flat fee for services, which simplifies budgeting.

  • Remote IT services are available from anywhere. 

  • Customers have access to a larger pool of experts, which makes it easier to resolve problems.

An MSP’s remote IT services, however, should be one of several criteria a business must evaluate before selecting a service provider. 

In fact, NSI pointed out that some of the key factors a business may look for in an MSP include:

  • Industry expertise – Is an MSP capable of providing effective IT support in a specific industry?

  • Network monitoring – Is an MSP able to provide 24/7/365 network monitoring? 

  • Network security – Is an MSP capable of handling network security concerns?

NSI also noted that an MSP must devote the necessary time and resources to understand a business’ IT needs.

“What you should evaluate … is [an MSP’s] experience, their understanding of your business and your IT needs and their ability to deliver support when and where you need it,” NSI wrote in its eBook. 

What are your thoughts on providing remote IT services to customers? Share your thoughts about this story in the Comments section below, via Twitter @dkobialka or email me at [email protected].

About the Author(s)

Dan Kobialka

Contributing writer, Penton Technology

Dan Kobialka is a contributing writer for MSPmentor and Talkin' Cloud. In the past, he has produced content for numerous print and online publications, including the Boston Business Journal, Boston Herald and Patch.com. Dan holds a M.A. in Print and Multimedia Journalism from Emerson College and a B.A. in English from Bridgewater State College (now Bridgewater State University). In his free time, Kobialka enjoys jogging, traveling, playing sports, touring breweries and watching football (Go Patriots!).  

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