Addressing the Challenges in Managed IT Services

With growing IT demands, more businesses are turning to managed service providers (MSPs) to streamline technology management. In fact, 76% of organizations believe that managed services play a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance, underscoring their value beyond just operational support.

While MSPs bring valuable expertise, many organizations find that building an effective partnership comes with its own set of challenges. Managing expectations, maintaining clear communication, and aligning IT priorities are essential for ensuring that the partnership runs smoothly and supports business goals.

Whether you’re considering an MSP partnership or looking to enhance an existing one, this guide highlights the most common challenges in collaborating with MSPs and offers actionable strategies to overcome them.

1. Communication Gaps

One of the top IT managed services provider challenges is maintaining clear and consistent communication. Without reliable communication channels, issues can escalate due to misunderstandings, delays, or misaligned expectations.

Solution:

Establish dedicated communication channels with your MSP. Schedule regular meetings to discuss ongoing projects, updates, and any roadblocks. Consider using collaborative tool like Microsoft Teams to keep communication organized and accessible. A proactive communication approach prevents minor issues from turning into major setbacks, fostering a smoother working relationship.

2. Unrealistic Expectations

Unrealistic expectations can strain the partnership, particularly when businesses assume that outsourcing IT will instantly resolve all technology issues. With over 40,000 MSPs in the market and a fast-growing number, many companies have high hopes that an external provider can deliver quick fixes.

However, true transformation takes time and ongoing collaboration. This gap between expectation and reality often leads to frustration when immediate results don’t materialize, underscoring the importance of setting realistic goals from the start.

Solution:

To set a foundation for success, define realistic goals and performance metrics with your MSP from the start. Establish clear KPIs to track progress and schedule regular performance reviews.

Remember that managed IT services focus on continual improvement; seeing gradual but steady results over time will help keep expectations realistic and encourage a more positive collaboration.

3. Data Security and Compliance Concerns

When working with an external provider, concerns over data security and compliance often arise, particularly in industries with strict regulations. Handing over sensitive data can feel risky, and businesses may worry about potential breaches or compliance lapses.

Solution:

Verify that your MSP has the necessary security certifications and industry compliance knowledge relevant to your field. To address managed services providers challenges around data protection, request a detailed rundown of their security protocols and schedule regular security and compliance reviews. Transparent security practices can help businesses build greater trust in their MSPs, reducing anxiety over sensitive data handling.

4. Dependency on MSP for Core IT Functions

While relying on an MSP for expertise is beneficial, over-dependence can weaken in-house IT capabilities. If your team loses touch with core IT functions, your business may become overly reliant on the provider, which can pose a risk if the partnership changes.

Solution:

Maintain a balance between MSP support and in-house knowledge. Work with your provider to design a knowledge-sharing plan, allowing internal staff to gain insight into processes managed by the MSP. Additionally, ensure your business has a continuity plan in case of any disruptions, keeping your operations resilient and adaptable.

5. Aligning IT Strategy with Business Goals

MSPs sometimes have operational methods or priorities that don’t align with their clients’ business goals. This misalignment can lead to dissatisfaction if the MSP’s actions don’t directly support broader company objectives.

Solution:

Involve your MSP in strategic planning sessions, ensuring they understand your business goals and how IT can support them. Request regular check-ins to realign IT strategies with evolving business needs. By actively engaging your MSP in goal-setting, you can foster a partnership that prioritizes mutual success.

6. Cost Transparency and Budget Control

A common managed services provider challenge is unexpected costs or lack of transparency around pricing. When services aren’t clearly itemized, clients may feel blindsided by unplanned expenses, which can strain the partnership.

Solution:

Review your MSP contract thoroughly, noting any variable costs and requesting clarification on pricing structures. Set budget caps to control expenses, and establish regular expense reporting. Open discussions about budget expectations make it easier to plan and prevent any financial surprises.

How to Overcome Managed IT Services Challenges: A Quick Summary

Transform Your IT Experience with Anteris’s Collaborative Solutions

Effective partnerships with managed service providers require more than a service agreement—they depend on open communication, realistic expectations, and strategic alignment.

By addressing these common challenges head-on, businesses can foster a productive relationship with their MSP, one that drives long-term growth and mutual success.

Anteris delivers managed IT services that prioritize seamless collaboration and effective results, helping you navigate and overcome common partnership challenges. Contact us today to explore how our managed IT services can drive quality results for your business.