Proceed with caution
The MSP model is in the process of defining itself and staking out its turf. Although it sounds appealing, there's still reason for caution. For many years, IT departments have controlled and managed their own internal systems. Deciding to outsource an entire IT infrastructure, or portions of it, is a choice that shouldn't be made lightly.
Security is one important area of concern. MSPs are addressing this issue in several ways, including establishing direct VPN connections between customer and data centre, and using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) over HTTP connections. Be sure to investigate the MSP's internal security procedures to ensure data is kept from prying eyes.
Some IT staff may be reluctant to use MSP services because they may view them as a job-security threat. This is a valid concern if plans are to fully outsource management tasks, using companies such as CenterBeam, Everdream, and Loudcloud. For this reason, many MSPs are positioning themselves as enablers complementing, rather than replacing, IT staff functions.
The Internet is the lifeline between MSP vendor and client. Because Internet connectivity can be lost on occasion, the Net isn't the most reliable communication medium. If you lose your Internet connection, your business may not be adequately monitored and protected, a potential concern for companies outsourcing the majority of their infrastructure. Some MSPs, including SilverBack, address this by placing a server onsite. The server collects information for up to seven days during an extended outage.
The MSP market is new and relatively unproven. Some MSPs will go through mergers and acquisitions, and others will fall by the wayside. Companies that offer a wide breadth of services may acquire niche companies to help fill out their portfolios. Or, co-location hosting companies such as Exodus, which is actively partnering with MSPs, may decide to go the acquisition route. Framework software makers, such as BMC and Tivoli, may even enter the MSP market to license their software to MSPs.
