Advantages of working with a smaller MSP
by Patrick Boyd, Chief Operating Officer
When it comes to managing your business’s IT needs, choosing the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) can make all the difference. While large, national MSPs might have greater resources and reach, that scale often comes at a cost, both in hard dollars and approach.
Below, I outline some of the advantages a smaller MSP can offer.
Personal Service:
One of the biggest advantages of working with a smaller MSP is the level of personalized service you receive. A smaller MSP takes the time to get to know you, your business, and your specific IT requirements. Instead of being just another client in a massive portfolio, you’re treated like a valued partner. This means your MSP can tailor solutions that fit your business like a glove, rather than offering generic, one-size-fits-all packages. At Cornerstone.IT, we offer managed services for a single service or specific function all the way to full environment management. And we won’t make you adhere to a technology stack. You should run the technology that makes the most sense for your business.
Flexibility and Responsiveness:
Smaller MSPs are known for their agility and flexibility. In large corporations, decision-making processes are often bogged down by layers of bureaucracy and red tape. This can delay critical IT decisions and implementations. On the other hand, small MSPs can make rapid decisions, quickly adapt to changing circumstances, and implement new technologies without the lengthy approval processes typical of larger organizations. This nimbleness allows them to stay ahead of technological trends and provide cutting-edge solutions to their clients. At Cornerstone.IT, we can often begin working with clients after a single phone call, especially in urgent situations.
Knowing your business and tech stack:
In a smaller MSP, you’re likely speaking with someone who already understands your setup and has a vested interest in your success. This level of personal attention translates into quicker resolutions, proactive solutions, and an IT experience that feels much more like a partnership than a transaction. When you call for support, you’re not just another number in a queue; you get the personalized support that’s crucial for resolving complex issues quickly and effectively. Cornerstone.IT works almost exclusively within the legal market. We know the tools; we understand how the business works and we get the priorities.
Consistency:
In a smaller MSP, staff turnover tends to be lower, and such stability is a big win for your business. When you work with the same people over time, they become an extension of your team. They know your systems inside and out, and you don’t have to start from scratch with someone new every few months. This consistency means your MSP is more in tune with your business needs and can anticipate potential issues before they become problems. Cornerstone.IT has some of the lowest turnover in the industry.
Hands On:
Smaller MSPs often provide hands-on assistance, not just remote support. Whether that means visiting your office to install new hardware, providing on-site training, or simply being available for a face-to-face meeting when needed, this hands-on approach ensures you’re not left feeling like just another number in a queue. Instead, you get the personalized support that’s crucial for resolving complex issues quickly and effectively.
Commitment:
Small MSPs like Cornerstone.IT view their clients as long-term partners rather than short-term contracts. They invest time and resources into understanding your business goals and IT needs, fostering a collaborative relationship. This long-term focus ensures that the MSP is aligned with your strategic objectives and committed to supporting your growth and success over the years.
Innovation:
Small MSPs are often at the forefront of innovation. Because they are nimble and adaptable, they can quickly adopt and implement the latest technologies and industry best practices. This focus on innovation means that your business will benefit from cutting-edge solutions and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market. Cornerstone.IT was helping clients get to the cloud and use virtual technologies long before they were buzzy. The AI story is no different.
Cost:
Long-term partnerships with smaller MSPs can also be more cost-effective. They often offer more competitive pricing than larger MSPs, without compromising on the quality of service. Additionally, the efficiency and personalized attention you receive can lead to fewer disruptions and more streamlined operations, ultimately saving your business money in the long run. We can find a price structure that works for you.
These are just a few of the advantages of working with a boutique MSP. Contact us to learn more about working with a legal technology partner that gets you.
Cornerstone.IT, a trusted provider since 2003, offers top-tier Managed IT and Project Services, empowering small to mid-sized law firms nationwide with a competitive edge. We strategically plan, design, implement, and maintain clients’ cloud-based and on-premises systems to optimize IT investments and prioritize security. Our personalized service ensures a robust and secure IT infrastructure for our clients, strictly adhering to NIST 800 171 standards. Our entire operation is ISO 27001 certified. We build IT better!
