In computer consulting, many VARs make the same sorts of mistakes when they are deciding on the process of becoming a managed services provider (MSP).  

Computer Consulting:  Business Plans

Many VARs forget about the importance of writing down a business plan.  Going on a wing and a prayer rarely works for any sort of successful computer consulting professional.  The only way to decrease risk and increase organizational skills and professionalism is to create a business plan.

Computer Consulting and Marketing Plans

Many small VARs are not good with marketing strategies.  Word-of-mouth will not sustain a business, and will definitely not help anyone looking to make the switch from a VAR to a managed services provider.  

Realistic Expectations

A lot of people getting into computer consulting do not have realistic expectations about how their margins will be affected when they transition into a new role as a managed services provider.  You can’t overlook the effort needed to grow a business.

Is Virtual IT Compatible with Managed Services?

Many VARs think that virtual IT and MSP can complement each other.  These two things are different approaches in computer consulting.  While both deliver small business IT services, they need completely different computer consulting marketing strategies, business plans, sales processes, technical competency, infrastructure and financial savvy.  

Blogged By:  Computer Consulting Kit