While the rest of the global economy decides to meltdown, the managed services profession remains quite strong. Compared to what we experienced in 2001-2002 the managed services industry could not be more fortunate considering how many other industries are performing.
Having said that, it is important to remember that while the rest of the markets experience moderate to severe price deflation, the managed services profession should resist any temptation to let its pricing schemes follow suit. Particularly newer MSPs may be in jeopardy of reverting back to their “VAR” days of dropping prices when times get tough. For those of you who are new to our profession the best advice I can give is to have faith in yourselves. Believe that your services are valuable, know that your clients’ trust in you is well deserved, and price accordingly.
When we come out of this economic slump (and we will) our profession will be in an even better position if you all price your services as true professionals and not as a commodity.