Now that MSPWorld is finished (at least here in the US) for 2010, it is interesting to reflect on how the whole telecom side of the channel is going to react as they continue their migration into IT managed services. Specifically, I’m wondering if they will decide to build or partner.
I’m going out on a limb here and saying that most of the rank and file telephony resellers will decide to utilize the Master MSP model…at least initially. Here is why I think this is going to be the case.
First, using a Master MSP will get a majority of these smaller telephony resellers into the managed services profession more quickly than building it themselves.
Second, the smaller telephony resellers tend to be less experienced in IT management and may not have the resources (people, tools, etc.) to build a managed services practice internally.
Third, seeing how the MSP model will be very different to these telephony companies, the risk exposure in using a Master MSP model will be considerable. Especially during a soft economy with an uncertain future path towards recovery.
We will be keeping a close eye on this trend and letting you know how it turns out. However, for the short term, it appears that Master MSPs will be keeping very busy for the next 12 months.