Managed services providers (MSPs) offer businesses a range of solutions to address their IT needs, but not all managed services are created equal. A proactive managed services provider optimizes its clients' productivity by anticipating problems before they occur. In contrast, a reactive IT support provider responds after a problem has already occurred. 

The MSP business model is presumed to be proactive by definition. However, some are more proactive than others. Efficient and reliable IT services are crucial for business success. That's why working with an MSP that offers proactive support is generally the best long-term solution.

What Is a Reactive IT Service Provider?

A reactive IT service provider responds to clients' IT issues as they arise. This approach is often characterized by a "break-fix" model, in which the provider waits for customers to report problems and then takes action to resolve them.

Reactive IT providers are characterized by the following features:

• Problem-driven: The provider primarily focuses on addressing existing IT issues and outages rather than taking steps to prevent future problems.
• Limited proactive measures: Most reactive IT providers will offer some basic monitoring and maintenance, but their focus is primarily on reactive support.
• Slow response times: Clients may have to deal with slower response times due to the reactive nature of the service.
• Higher costs: A reactive IT service provider may end up costing more over time due to the repeated need for emergency repairs and troubleshooting.

While reactive IT services may be suitable for organizations that don’t rely too much on technology, they are not the best option for businesses that are computer-based and require proactive IT management to ensure their continued operation.

What Is a Proactive Managed Service Provider?

A proactive managed service provider (MSP) takes a preventative approach to IT management, anticipating and addressing potential issues before they occur. Their proactive approach involves continuous monitoring, maintenance, and optimization of IT systems to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.

Proactive managed services providers have the following characteristics:

• Predictive maintenance: Utilize data analytics and monitoring tools to identify potential issues and take proactive steps to prevent them.
• Regular maintenance and updates: Proactively perform routine maintenance, software updates, and security patches to minimize risks. Technicians review reports to understand any issues that may impact the smooth running of your systems.
• Performance optimization: Continuously monitor and optimize IT systems to ensure they are operating at peak efficiency.
• Proactive monitoring: Employ advanced monitoring tools to detect and address issues before they impact operations.
• Customized solutions: Tailor services to meet the specific needs and goals of each client.
• Predictable monthly fee: While reactive IT service providers charge when their services are required, proactive MSPs generally offer fixed-price monthly plans.

Which Features Should a Proactive MSP Offer?

The best proactive MSPs should offer the following features to support your business.

Continuous Monitoring and Management

Ask prospective MSPs about the systems they have in place for the following:

Remote Monitoring

Remote monitoring aims to prevent network failures, improve security, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. This basic function is essential for proactive problem-solving as it allows MSPs to identify and address issues before they escalate into major problems. This capability also offers cost efficiency as it reduces the need for on-site visits.

Risk Management and Compliance

These practices help to protect businesses from legal, financial, and reputational risks, while ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations. Robust risk management practices help to protect sensitive customer data from breaches and unauthorized access. This in turn helps businesses recover quickly from incidents and minimizes disruptions.

Patch Management

Patch management is the process of applying software updates, security patches, and bug fixes to IT systems and applications. It is a critical aspect of IT maintenance and security, as it helps to address vulnerabilities, improve performance, and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Research suggests that more than 50% of companies are unable to patch critical vulnerabilities within the 72-hour recommended time. 15% of them are still unpatched after 30 days, representing a significant security risk. Ask prospective MSPs which services they offer to prevent problems before they occur and avoid putting your business at risk.

Meets You Where You Are

A quality proactive MSP will meet you where you are rather than asking you to adopt separate communication channels. MSPs that use Thread can chat with your team members and open tickets (or “threads”) right from the communication platform your business already uses, such as Microsoft Teams or Slack. 

The chatbot powered by Magic AIautomatically connects you with the best technician for the job for the fastest response and resolution times. Thread also prioritizes urgent user requests, ensuring problems that impact critical operations and productivity are solved in a timely manner.

Reactive and Proactive Managed Services Compared

Get the Right Support from a Proactive MSP

Proactive MSPs offer a balance of services and technical support that help companies optimize productivity and reach their business goals. Choosing a proactive MSP with the best integrations is recommended for businesses with aspirations for success.

Understandably, some small businesses with a limited IT budget may opt for a reactive IT service provider at the beginning of their journey. However, switching to a proactive service provider will be a significant step along the road to business growth.