Checklist & Toolkit: 10 Questions You Should Ask Your Potential MSP Partner
Checklist & Toolkit: 10 Questions You Should Ask Your Potential MSP Partner
10 Key Questions for Choosing an MSP Partner – including a downloadable checklist to support your preparation and vendor discussions.
Implementing a Managed Service Program (MSP) is a strategic decision with far-reaching implications for a company's external workforce management. For the successful implementation of an MSP model, it is crucial that the selected service provider not only has the necessary expertise but also fits the company's operational requirements and strategic goals. The following 10 questions will help you address the right topics in discussions with a potential MSP partner and evaluate their competence, flexibility, and fit.
Tip:At the end of this article, you will find a compact version of this checklist available for download. Use it as preparation for interviews and selection processes.
This question reveals whether the provider realistically addresses potential challenges and what preventative measures they take to minimize risks. Transparency regarding risks and how they are handled speaks to experience and reliability.
A structured implementation process with change management, communication plans, and clear timelines is crucial for a successful rollout. Ask for rollout examples and realistic implementation timelines.
A good MSP is characterized by a clearly defined governance structure. Only when the collaboration is transparently regulated can friction be avoided.
This question sheds light on the provider's control logic. Meaningful KPIs and binding SLAs are essential for measuring success and continuous optimization.
A professional provider can clearly demonstrate the costs involved and what savings potential or efficiency gains are realistic.
Determine whether the provider can cover volatile needs, facilitates international rollouts, and offers various contract types (e.g., temporary employment, service contracts).
Ask whether the managed service provider works with established VMS partners or even uses its own systems. Interface compatibility with your existing IT is also important.
Compliance is a critical success factor. Ask your MSP to explain how they handle issues such as bogus self-employment, equal pay, and data protection.
Well-thought-out supplier management ensures the quality and availability of external resources. Ask about selection processes, evaluation criteria, and control mechanisms.
Industry experience is a definite plus. The provider should be able to demonstrate that they serve similar clients and understand their specific requirements.
Selecting a suitable MSP partner is a complex but crucial step on the path to greater transparency, efficiency, and strategic control in external workforce management. The questions listed here provide guidance and help you conduct discussions on equal terms.
The condensed checklist is available for download here – ideal for preparing for your next meeting.
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