5 Questions Alberta Businesses Should Ask Their MSP

Managed IT service providers (MSPs) are at the heart of modern business operations. Whether it’s making sure your company’s day-to-day operations run smoothly or protecting your data from rising security threats, MSPs can be a critical partner for your success. However, not all MSPs are created equal. 

For Alberta businesses specifically, it’s important to look beyond baseline technical expertise and evaluate an Alberta MSP’s ability to truly partner with your organization. Are they forward-thinking, adaptable, and aligned with your company’s unique needs? Asking the right questions can ensure a long-term partnership that adds real value to your business. 

The following are 5 key questions every Alberta business owner should ask before committing to a managed IT service provider. 

1. Do They Educate You on Security Threats and Solutions? 

In Canada, the rise of threats is exceeding the amount of professionals equipped to handle it—specifically, a shortage of about 26,000 cybersecurity experts. Cybersecurity is one of the greatest challenges businesses face today. However, understanding concepts like phishing, malware, and ransomware can feel overly complex when explained in IT jargon. It’s important to choose an MSP that not only protects your business from cyber threats but also educates you. 

A great Alberta MSP doesn’t just throw around technical terms; they simplify cybersecurity, breaking it down in ways that make sense for you and your team. When your employees understand the basics of online safety, it complements the MSP’s efforts, creating a more secure workplace all around. 

2. Will They Accommodate Your Schedule and Tailor Services to Your Needs? 

Your business likely has unique demands, whether it’s specific hours of operation or specialized software setups. An MSP shouldn’t force you into a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, they should tailor their services to your security gaps and operational requirements. 

Furthermore, their approach should be partnership-focused, not provider-focused. A strong Alberta MSP actively works as an embedded team member, learning the nuances of your business and offering solutions for optimization along the way. 

When choosing an Alberta MSP, find out if they offer the following:

• Customized security protocols tailored to your most vulnerable areas. 
• Flexibility to schedule support outside of your busiest hours. 
• Proactive planning based on your company’s growth projections. 

With a partnership-minded MSP, you’ll feel confident they’re invested in your long-term success, not just transactional support. 

3. What Are Their Core Values? 

Just like hiring a new team member, finding the right MSP begins with understanding their values. What inspires them to do what they do? Are they passionate about helping businesses grow? Do they prioritize transparency, integrity, and customer service? 

A relationship with your MSP is a significant, ongoing commitment. If their values clash with your company culture, it can lead to unnecessary frustrations. On the flip side, alignment in core values fosters trust and smoother collaborations. 

When speaking with a potential Alberta MSP, ask questions that’ll reveal their values to you such as:

• What’s their philosophy on client relationships? 
• How do they measure success within partnerships? 
• How do they handle mistakes or challenges when they arise? 

4. How Do They Stay Up-To-Date on the Latest Trends and Threats? 

You’ve heard it before: technology evolves at a breakneck pace, and cybersecurity threats often outpace traditional defenses. Alberta businesses should seek an MSP that continuously learns and adapts to this reality. 

Ask about how they stay informed on emerging security threats and new technologies. Do they attend industry conferences? Do they have dedicated staff continuously researching technological innovations? 

The right MSP will also bring these updates to you, proactively suggesting ways to integrate the latest tech innovations and defense mechanisms into your operations. This is called a proactive approach, keeping you protected before issues arise rather than leaving you scrambling with a reactive approach to mitigate damage. 

5. How Often Will They Communicate With You? 

Frequent and transparent communication is vital when working with an MSP. Downtime, cyber incidents, or even routine tech upgrades require consistent updates between your teams. 

Ask about their communication protocols and availability:

• Do they offer regular check-ins to discuss your IT strategy? 
• Will they provide detailed reports on performance metrics and updates? 
• Are they quick to respond during emergencies or outside of business hours? 

A standout Alberta MSP will focus on building an open dialogue where you always feel looped into important decisions. 

Why Alt-Tech is the Right Fit for Your Alberta Business 

At Alt-Tech, we’ve reimagined what it means to partner with an Alberta MSP. Our approach focuses on humanizing technology and empowering businesses to build secure, efficient, and competitive IT environments. 

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Simplified Security Education: Whether it’s mitigating cybersecurity risk or leveraging new tech, our team ensures you understand every step. 
• Tailored Solutions: We craft solutions that fit your unique needs, prioritizing your workflow and operational goals. 
• Core Values You Can Trust: Collaboration, integrity, and a commitment to Alberta’s business community drive everything we do. 
• Up-to-Date Expertise: From cutting-edge trends to innovative tools, we ensure your business stays ahead of the curve. 
• Proactive Communication: No surprises, no lapses—we keep the conversation going to ensure your business has the support you need. 

Transform the way you manage IT with a partner who’s just as invested in your business’s success. 

Take A Step Toward Smarter IT Management 

Your MSP should be more than just a vendor; they should be a trusted advisor and an essential part of your business strategy. Asking intentional, targeted questions can help you uncover a prospect’s true potential as a partner.

Are you ready to take the next step? Choose a managed IT service provider who’s committed to your growth. Schedule a free consultation with Alt-Tech today to explore how we can help your business thrive in Alberta’s dynamic landscape.