As we start our MSPWorld Regional Networking Event series this week in Atlanta and Miami I am unsure of what to expect, but I have a few ideas. Last year these regional gatherings of leading MSP and cloud providers produced a lot of discussion around cloud, channel competition, pricing pressures, and general uncertainty regarding the economy. My question is, will this trend continue into 2011?
Cloud: I am anticipating much more adoption around cloud in 2011, which is not a revolutionary thing to say. Where this year will differ from 2010, in my opinion, is the service providers will be more inclined to offer cloud solutions, but on their own terms. MSPs want to embrace new technologies but never if it marginalizes their relationship with the client. 2010 was the year of cloud at any cost. 2011 will be cloud on the terms of service providers.
Privacy: Whether tied to the issue of control and customer service, many MSPs last year expressed privacy concerns as an issue when deploying a cloud solution for a client. I personally think this is something that is instrinsically linked to the larger debate of public vs private cloud offerings. Based on feedback from MSPs, when given a chance private cloud will almost always win.
Pricing: I anticipate the issue of pricing pressure to continue to be a major point of contention amongst MSPs. In recent months I have personally talked to dozens of MSPs who have expressed concern over price dumping and commodization. MSPs are worried about it and are desperately seeking a solution. We can expect a lot of debate on this topic in 2011.
We will be posting regular blogs as well as live Tweeting from the events so we encourage you to stay tuned and check often often.