Managed IT Services – Your Checklist

How to manage your IT infrastructure:

You have chosen the perfect collocation provider, now is the time to consider how you are going to manage that IT infrastructure. One way is to buy a Managed IT Services package from the collocation provider. This is often a cheaper, fastest and more reliable way to ensure your technology remains UP and your systems are running smoothly but there are also some considerations to think through before taking the leap.

Let’s take a look at the Managed IT Services Checklist to make sure to avoid any issues that may arise by operating with a 3^rd party.

1. Security Infrastructure  Employ a strict monitoring, logging and reporting system for all parties managing your infrastructure. Ensure that you create a procedure for both the primary hosting location as well as the backup/DR site, which might not be configured or staffed as thoroughly as the primary location.
2. Compliance Issues Be sure to brief your Managed Service Provider with your data systems and compliance policies, this is essential for Medical and Finance institutions compiling with HIPPA and FINRA. If data is sensitive, employ a Digital Rights Management system and Encryption at various levels.
3. Communication Define your expectations clearly, this is a crucial step to ensure all your needs are being met. You should expect a thorough consultation to assess your needs and if their team need further training to manage your software programming. Important questions include:

• Can the provider offer “caged server” requirements or dedicated suites?
• Are PCI compliance scanning and fixes offered?
• Is the company SSAE 16 (formerly SAS-70 Type II) certified?
• What experience do their system administrators have with cryptography?
• Do they have brute force detection services?

1. Relationship Management It is essential to build a good relationship with your Managed Service Provider mainly to ensure they are kept up to speed with all the essential changes and updates in your technology needs.
2. Experience and References  Ask for case studies and contact information for current clients. There is no better way to ensure piece of mind than a satisfied, long term customer list. Ask questions about set up, efficiency and overall customer service to consider if this MSP is the right company for you.
3. Flexibility An MSP should be offering you a custom built solution that is designed and built for your business. Cһοoѕе аח IT outsourcing company with different engagement levels and flexibility to change once you become a client.

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