Defining MSPs and TSPs: What Do They Offer?
- Managed Service Provider
The MSP model has been around since the 2000s, and today these businesses can take care of your IT infrastructure, systems, and cyber security requirements. This includes hardware (procurement, maintenance, and optimisation), software (installation and maintenance), data backup and recovery, networking, cyber security, cloud services, proactive support, and more. MSPs can also deliver projects and typically bundle services, with overall benefits including heightened efficiency and performance, improved cyber resilience, and cost-efficiency. They’re a great alternative to an in-house IT team, or to complement your existing team with the ability to provide specialised expertise and additional resources and tools to take on projects.
- Technology Services Partner
With all that on offer, MSPs are sounding pretty great – but now, let’s talk about TSPs. Firstly, it’s important to preface this with the fact that TSPs can deliver the same services as MSPs, but with a difference. TSPs have evolved their approach to align with the needs of today – redefining their offering with a business-led mindset and a focus on overcoming business challenges with technology, prioritising governance at all stages to support compliance, transparency so clients can make the best decisions based on all the necessary information and data, and lastly a commitment to educating clients and their teams to enable increased efficiency and confidence.
MSP vs TSP: Value Offerings
| MSP | TSP | |
| Hardware & Software Procurement, Implementation, & Maintenance | ✅ | ✅ |
| Data Backup & Recovery | ✅ | ✅ |
| Networking | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cyber Security | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cloud Services | ✅ | ✅ |
| Data Centre Services | ✅ | ✅ |
| Proactive Support | ✅ | ✅ |
| Business-Led Mindset | ❌ | ✅ |
| Strategy Level Guidance | ❌ | ✅ |
| Commitment to Governance at Each Step | ❌ | ✅ |
| Transparent Practices | ❌ | ✅ |
| Client Education & Empowerment | ❌ | ✅ |
Which is Right for Your Business?
As you can see, there’s an overlap in the offerings of MSPs and TSPs and both can support your business’ IT requirements, but making the right decision will depend on what you’re looking for in the long term. The table above clearly lays out the additional value a TSP offers, with holistic solutions that consider the entire business rather than just your technical needs. They’re a dependable partner that’s on your side, ready to provide expert guidance and position your business for ongoing growth while mitigating risks. This includes aligning business and IT goals, which is critical to ensure your digital transformation is relevant, sustainable, and that you can make optimal investments – all while delivering on the traditional MSP offerings to keep your everyday IT needs handled and provide peace of mind.
How Bekkers Can Help
If you’re ready to work with a TSP in Perth, our team of experts is here to help. Bekkers has spent 35 years working alongside SMBs, evolving with technology and honing our skills to support our clients’ needs. We’d love to chat about your business, the issues you’re currently facing, and how we can partner with you to overcome roadblocks, leverage technology, and plan for future success. Don’t navigate today’s complex challenges alone – get in touch with us today here, and we can kick off your journey.
