5 Questions You Should Ask Your MSP Before 2025

Small businesses are feeling the heat of technology’s fast-paced evolution. As we approach 2025, it's more important than ever to have a solid IT strategy in place so your business isn’t left behind. Managed service providers (MSPs) have become essential partners for many small businesses, providing expert IT support and guidance. However, not all MSPs are created equal. To ensure your business is positioned for success in the coming years, it's crucial to evaluate your MSP and ask the right questions. 

Question 1: How Are You Preparing for Upcoming Cybersecurity Threats?

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, and small businesses are increasingly becoming targets. Ransomware attacks, data breaches, and other cybercrimes pose significant risks to your operations and reputation. Your MSP should have a proactive approach to cybersecurity, including:

• Staying up-to-date with new cybersecurity regulations. This includes understanding and complying with industry-specific regulations like HIPAA, GDPR, and CCPA.
• Utilizing cutting-edge security tools. Your MSP should be using a combination of advanced security technologies, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection solutions.
• Conducting regular security audits and assessments. Regular assessments help identify vulnerabilities and ensure that your security measures are effective.

By asking your MSP about cybersecurity strategy, you can ensure they are taking the necessary steps to protect your business from emerging threats.

Question 2: What’s Your Approach to Cloud Management and Optimization?

Cloud technology has become a cornerstone of modern business operations. However, managing and optimizing cloud environments requires ongoing attention. Your MSP should be able to provide:

• Proactive cloud cost management. This includes regularly monitoring cloud usage, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and optimizing resource allocation.
• Regular performance reviews. Your MSP should conduct regular performance reviews to ensure your cloud infrastructure is running efficiently and meeting your business needs.
• Secure cloud environments that meet your business’s specific needs. Your MSP should have experience in designing and implementing secure cloud solutions that comply with industry regulations and protect your sensitive data.

By asking your MSP about their cloud management approach, you can ensure they are helping you get the most out of your cloud investments.

Question 3: How Do You Ensure Compliance with Changing Industry Regulations?

Different industries are subject to various compliance requirements, such as HIPAA, GDPR, and CCPA. Non-compliance can lead to significant fines and damage to your reputation. Your MSP should be able to:

• Stay up-to-date with evolving regulations. This includes tracking changes in industry standards and best practices.
• Offer regular compliance checks and assessments. Your MSP should conduct regular audits and assessments to identify potential compliance gaps and ensure your business is meeting all relevant requirements.
• Help you prepare for audits or regulatory changes. Your MSP should be able to assist you with preparing for audits, responding to inquiries, and addressing any compliance issues.

By asking your MSP about their compliance expertise, you can ensure they are helping you navigate the complex regulatory landscape.

Question 4: What Are Your Plans for Implementing Automation and AI Tools?

Automation and artificial intelligence are transforming the IT landscape. Small businesses can benefit from AI-driven solutions that improve efficiency, enhance cybersecurity, and streamline operations. Your MSP should be:

• Exploring or actively using automation to enhance monitoring and reduce downtime. This could include using AI-powered tools for threat detection, network monitoring, or IT asset management.
• Explaining how automation can improve your business’s processes and workflows. Your MSP should be able to identify areas where automation can streamline tasks, reduce errors, and improve overall productivity.

By asking your MSP about their plans for automation and AI, you can ensure they are helping you leverage these technologies to your advantage.

Question 5: How Will You Support Our Future Growth and Scalability?

As your business grows, your IT needs will evolve. Your MSP should be able to:

• Provide flexible and scalable solutions. Your MSP should be able to adapt their services to meet your changing needs as your business expands.
• Offer proactive growth planning. Your MSP should help you anticipate future IT requirements and develop a plan to support your growth.
• Help you adopt technologies that prepare your business for the future. Your MSP should be able to guide you in selecting and implementing emerging technologies that can give your business a competitive edge.

By asking your MSP about their ability to support your future growth, you can ensure they are a partner that will be there for you as your business expands.

As we approach 2025, it's more important than ever for small businesses to have a strong IT strategy in place. By asking your MSP these key questions, you can evaluate their capabilities and ensure they are prepared to meet the challenges of the future. Don't be afraid to have an open dialogue with your MSP and adjust your strategy accordingly. A proactive approach to IT management will help your business thrive in the years to come.