When it comes to managed IT services, businesses have a lot of choices. They can go with a nationwide provider, or they can choose a local managed IT services provider (MSP). There are pros and cons to both choices, but in general, most businesses find that working with a local MSP provides several key benefits. Here are six compelling reasons for working with a local MSP.

1. They have knowledge and experience in the local market

When you work with a local MSP, you can be sure that they know the local market like the back of their hand. This is important because it means they understand the unique challenges and opportunities that businesses in your area face. This gives them the leverage to tailor their services to meet your specific needs.

2. They’re just one call — or a stone’s throw —  away

Having a local gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing they are always just a phone call away. If you have an issue or need help with something, you can simply pick up the phone and give them a call. With a nationwide provider that serves a wide clientele and may be in other time zones, you may have to wait days or even weeks for someone to come out and help you.

And if you need on-site support, such as for hardware upgrades, local MSPs can quickly get to your workplace, thus offering faster response times and minimizing downtime.

3. You can build a long-term relationship with them

Because your local MSP is just nearby, you can build a strong, long-term relationship with them. This is important because it means you will have someone you can rely on for years to come. When you work with a nationwide provider, there is always the risk that they could be bought out or go out of business, leaving you without support.

Local MSPs also offer growth opportunities. For instance, they might start as your managed IT services provider but then later offer additional services, such as web design or marketing, as your needs grow.

4. Local MSPs can offer a personal touch

Because local MSPs are smaller and more nimble, they can typically make changes and adjustments much faster than a larger nationwide provider. This means that if your needs change or you have a new challenge, they can quickly adapt and provide the support you need. 

Although it may not appear to be important at first, having a business that can send someone out to your office and sit with you face-to-face is an advantage that long-distance firms cannot match. A local firm’s personalized service distinguishes it from its interstate counterparts.

5. They can train your employees

Another benefit of having a local MSP is that they can provide training to your employees in person, such as in areas like cybersecurity. This is important because it allows your employees to get the most out of your managed IT services agreement. With a nationwide provider, you may have to rely on online training or hope that your employees can figure IT out on their own 

6. You support the local community

By working with a local MSP, you support your local economy. By doing commerce with a local business, you are helping to create jobs and support the growth of your area. In turn, you get an MSP that’s invested in your success — because your win is also their win.

These are just six of the many suits of benefits you’ll reap when you work with a local MSP. If you’re looking to partner with a managed IT services provider in San Diego, look no further than LAN Solutions. We provide top-notch IT support to small and mid-sized businesses for a flat monthly fee. Call us today at 619-439-1438 or drop us a line.