Managed Service Providers (MSPs) play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the increasingly complex world of technology. With the ever-evolving landscape of IT solutions and services, finding the right MSP partner for your business is more important than ever. Here are some tips to help you find the right MSP partner for your business:
1. Define your IT needs: Before you start looking for an MSP partner, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your IT needs. Identify the specific services and solutions that your business requires, whether it’s network security, cloud computing, data backup, or helpdesk support. This will help you narrow down your search and find an MSP partner that can meet your specific needs.
2. Evaluate the MSP’s experience and expertise: When choosing an MSP partner, it’s essential to evaluate their experience and expertise in providing IT services. Look for a partner that has a proven track record in delivering high-quality IT solutions to businesses in your industry. Ask for references and case studies to get a better understanding of their capabilities and expertise.
3. Consider the MSP’s scalability and flexibility: As your business grows and evolves, your IT needs will also change. It’s important to choose an MSP partner that can scale their services to accommodate your business growth. Look for a partner that offers flexible solutions and can adapt to your changing needs over time.
4. Assess the MSP’s security measures: Data security is a top priority for businesses of all sizes. When choosing an MSP partner, it’s important to assess their security measures and protocols. Look for an MSP that has robust security measures in place to protect your data and systems from cyber threats.
5. Evaluate the MSP’s customer service and support: Effective communication and timely support are essential when working with an MSP partner. Look for a partner that offers responsive customer service and support to address any issues or concerns that may arise. A reliable MSP partner should be available to provide support whenever you need it.
6. Review the MSP’s pricing and contract terms: Before signing a contract with an MSP partner, it’s important to review their pricing structure and contract terms. Make sure you understand the costs associated with their services and how they align with your budget. It’s also important to review the terms of the contract, including service level agreements and termination clauses.
Navigating the MSP landscape can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can find a trusted partner that meets your business needs. By defining your IT requirements, evaluating the MSP’s experience and expertise, considering their scalability and flexibility, assessing their security measures, reviewing their customer service and support, and reviewing their pricing and contract terms, you can find the right MSP partner for your business. With the right partner by your side, you can leverage technology to drive innovation and growth for your business.
In today’s fast-paced business environment, it is essential for companies to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technology. Managed service providers (MSPs) play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate the complex landscape of IT services and support. Finding the right MSP for your business needs can be a daunting task, but with careful consideration and research, you can find a partner that will help your business thrive.
One of the first things to consider when looking for an MSP is the range of services they offer. Not all MSPs are created equal, and it is important to find a provider that can meet all of your business’s IT needs. Some key services to look for include network monitoring, data backup and recovery, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and help desk support. Assess your current and future IT requirements to ensure that the MSP you choose can provide the necessary services to keep your business running smoothly.
Another important factor to consider is the MSP’s experience and expertise in your industry. Different industries have unique IT requirements and regulations, so it is important to find an MSP that has experience working with businesses similar to yours. Look for MSPs that have a proven track record of success in your industry and can provide references from satisfied clients.
Additionally, it is important to consider the MSP’s level of customer support and responsiveness. IT issues can arise at any time, so it is crucial to find an MSP that offers 24/7 support and quick response times. A reliable MSP should be able to address and resolve any IT issues promptly to minimize downtime and keep your business operations running smoothly.
When choosing an MSP, it is also important to consider the scalability of their services. As your business grows, your IT requirements will also evolve, so it is important to find an MSP that can scale their services to meet your changing needs. Look for an MSP that offers flexible service plans and can accommodate your business’s growth without sacrificing quality or reliability.
Finally, consider the cost of the MSP’s services. While it is important to find an MSP that fits within your budget, it is also important to consider the value they provide. Look for an MSP that offers competitive pricing and transparent billing practices, so you know exactly what you are paying for. Remember that investing in quality IT services is an investment in the future success of your business.
In conclusion, finding the right managed service provider for your business needs requires careful consideration and research. By assessing your IT requirements, considering the MSP’s experience and expertise, evaluating their customer support and scalability, and reviewing their pricing, you can find a partner that will help your business thrive in today’s competitive business landscape. With the right MSP by your side, you can focus on growing your business while leaving the IT heavy lifting to the experts.
Two people a year, or maybe three, used to buy Jacqueline Harpman’s novel I Who Have Never Known Men. Her story of a girl locked in a cage with 39 women in an underground bunker on a nameless world was published in 1995 then slid into obscurity.
Something has changed since then, because the novel’s tale of sisterhood and survival has become one of the hottest reads this year, drawing comparisons to Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Octavia E Butler’s Parableseries of novels.
IWHNKM, as it is known in hashtags on BookTok, the community of TikTok users who have made reading cool again, is in such demand that bookshops in the US have struggled to keep it in stock.
In the UK it has become “a bestselling staple of fiction sections across our bookshops”, according to Waterstones’ head of books, Bea Carvalho. Its publisher, Vintage, which reissued the novel in 2019, sold 45,000 copies last year, an elevenfold rise on 2022.
“It’s described as speculative fiction/sci-fi, but it’s quite desolate in its writing in a way I haven’t found with other books,” said Hali Brown, who runs the Books on the Bedside TikTok account with her sister Hana.
BookTok reviewer Hali Brown. Photograph: @booksonthebedside/TikTok
The narrator is the youngest of 40 captives and too young to remember her past. “All the guards are men,” Brown said, “and that’s all the women know about gender. They never really understand why they are there or how long they would be kept for.” Or any sense of time at all.
They may be on Earth. They may discover the reasons why they are there. They may find other people. Or they may not.
“It’s quite bleak but incredibly powerful,” Brown added. “It was unbelievably gripping for something so desperate.”
Rather like the questions posed by the post-apocalyptic novel, there are few clear answers to why it has become so successful. Harpman was a Belgian writer who died in 2012 aged 82. Her family fled to Casablanca during the second world war in fear of persecution for their Jewish roots.
The novel’s translator, Ros Schwartz, said she was gobsmacked by the turnaround of the book’s fortunes. “I guess it just strikes a chord with the younger generation, which it didn’t at the time – and whether that’s to do with publicity or whether it’s completely random, I don’t know. That’s one of the wonderful things about publishing – you never know.”
Brown lists the book’s qualities as being “accessibly written” and “not very long” (about 200 pages), as well as resonating with the modern political context of attacks on women’s rights and diversity at work.
“There’s lots happening in terms of women feeling like things are going backwards and not really understanding why or how that’s able to happen,” she said. The politics of Harpman’s world are sparse, unlike other dystopian fiction such as The Handmaid’s Tale or The Hunger Games. “Its political understanding of the world, I think, is relatable to a lot of young women,” Brown added.
Perhaps another reason for the book’s success second time round is that Schwartz revised her translation with the benefit of two decades’ more experience as a translator, with works including a fresh version of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince and honours such as becoming a chevalier in the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
Schwartz’s first attempt in the mid-90s used words that were often similar to their French counterparts. The effect of the more direct translation was to make the narrator seem too erudite for a young girl kept in a cage without education and no ability to read or write. “So I went through it and got rid of all the Latinate language. It was about finding the right voice for the narrator that didn’t make her sound over-educated but without making her sound stupid or a caricature.”
Another factor may be a title change. Nick Skidmore, publishing director at Vintage, said the book was originally published in translation as The Mysteries of Silence, rather than the French title, Moi Qui N’ai Pas Connu Les Hommes.
“A colleague of mine found this book at the time when Trump was in [his first term] and The Handmaid’s Tale was back in the bestsellers’ list. So we read it and we were mesmerised by it,” Skidmore said. The book was print-on-demand, selling only “two or three a year”.
A scene from the 2020 TV adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel, The Handmaid’s Tale. Photograph: Landmark Media/Alamy
Switching titles to a more direct translation of the French may be “one of the markers of its success”, he added. “I think the book captures this sense of the world where people are feeling bewildered. It’s a profoundly existential book, like some of the classics resonating with gen Z right now – Dostoevsky’s White Nights, for example. The type of stories that engage with very weighty questions of our existence.”
Susan Watkins, professor of women’s writing at Leeds Beckett University, said that dystopian fiction was often popular because it allowed readers to “identify with someone who’s resisting the totalitarian or authoritarian world in which they’re placed”.
Another factor in the appeal of dystopian fiction, Watkins said, is the process of “cognitive estrangement”, a term used by critic Darko Suvin to describe how science fiction writers create unfamiliarity in an invented world so they can examine a social or cultural change in the present day.
“For readers who perceive the threats to women’s reproductive rights and their sexual liberty, and the idea that feminism is being curtailed in large parts of the world, they’re seeing something of that in the text.”
“I Who Have Never Known Men”: the lost dystopia finding new readers after buzz on TikTok
Have you heard of the forgotten dystopian novel “I Who Have Never Known Men” by Jacqueline Harpman? Thanks to the power of social media, this hidden gem is now finding a new audience on TikTok.
Originally published in 1995, this haunting and thought-provoking book explores themes of isolation, identity, and the human experience through the eyes of a young woman who has never encountered men before. With its lyrical prose and powerful storytelling, “I Who Have Never Known Men” has captivated readers for decades.
Now, a new generation of readers is discovering this overlooked classic thanks to TikTok users sharing their love for the book. With its timely themes and timeless appeal, “I Who Have Never Known Men” is resonating with audiences in a whole new way.
If you’re looking for a thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, be sure to check out “I Who Have Never Known Men” and join the conversation about this hidden literary treasure on TikTok.
Outsourcing IT: Finding the Right Balance Between In-House and External Support
In today’s fast-paced business environment, companies are constantly looking for ways to streamline their operations and cut costs. One way many businesses are achieving this is by outsourcing their IT support. Outsourcing IT can provide a number of benefits, including cost savings, access to specialized expertise, and increased flexibility. However, finding the right balance between in-house and external support is crucial to ensure that your IT needs are being met effectively and efficiently.
One of the key advantages of outsourcing IT support is cost savings. By outsourcing IT services, companies can reduce overhead costs associated with hiring and maintaining an in-house IT department. External IT providers often offer pricing models that are more flexible and cost-effective than hiring full-time employees. This can result in significant savings for companies, particularly smaller businesses with limited budgets.
Another benefit of outsourcing IT support is access to specialized expertise. External IT providers often have a team of experts with a wide range of skills and experience. This can be especially valuable for companies that have complex IT needs or require specialized knowledge in certain areas. By outsourcing IT services, companies can tap into this expertise without having to invest in training or hiring new employees.
In addition to cost savings and specialized expertise, outsourcing IT support can also provide companies with increased flexibility. External IT providers can scale their services up or down based on the company’s needs, allowing businesses to adapt quickly to changing requirements. This can be particularly important for businesses with fluctuating IT demands or seasonal variations in workload.
However, while outsourcing IT support can offer many benefits, it is important for companies to find the right balance between in-house and external support. While outsourcing can be cost-effective and provide access to specialized expertise, there are also drawbacks to consider. For example, companies may have less control over the quality and timeliness of service when working with external providers. In addition, outsourcing IT support can sometimes lead to communication challenges or lack of alignment with the company’s goals and priorities.
To find the right balance between in-house and external support, companies should carefully evaluate their IT needs and consider the pros and cons of outsourcing. It may be beneficial to start with a hybrid approach, where some IT services are outsourced while others are handled in-house. This can help companies leverage the benefits of outsourcing while maintaining control over critical functions.
Ultimately, the key to successful IT outsourcing is finding a partner that aligns with your company’s goals and values. Look for a provider that has a strong track record of delivering high-quality services, offers transparent pricing and contract terms, and has a commitment to ongoing communication and collaboration. By finding the right balance between in-house and external support, companies can maximize the benefits of outsourcing IT and achieve their business goals more effectively.
Outsourcing IT services has become a popular trend in today’s business world. Many companies are turning to outsourcing to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and access specialized skills and expertise. However, finding the right IT outsourcing partner can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of IT outsourcing. Here are some tips to help you find the right partner for your business:
1. Define Your Needs: Before you start looking for an IT outsourcing partner, it’s important to clearly define your needs and objectives. What specific IT services do you need? Are you looking for a partner to manage your entire IT infrastructure, or do you need help with a specific project or task? By outlining your requirements, you can narrow down your search and find a partner that meets your needs.
2. Research Potential Partners: Once you have defined your needs, start researching potential IT outsourcing partners. Look for companies with a proven track record of delivering quality services and meeting client expectations. Check their credentials, read client testimonials, and ask for references. It’s also important to consider the size and scope of the outsourcing company – a smaller company may offer more personalized service, while a larger company may have more resources and expertise.
3. Evaluate Communication and Transparency: Effective communication is key to a successful outsourcing partnership. Make sure the outsourcing company you choose is responsive, transparent, and proactive in their communication. They should keep you informed about project progress, address any concerns or issues promptly, and be willing to collaborate with your internal team.
4. Consider Cultural Fit: When outsourcing IT services, it’s important to consider cultural fit. Look for a partner that shares your values, work ethic, and communication style. A good cultural fit can help foster a strong working relationship and ensure smooth collaboration between your internal team and the outsourcing partner.
5. Assess Security and Compliance: Data security and compliance are critical considerations when outsourcing IT services. Make sure the outsourcing partner has robust security measures in place to protect your sensitive information and comply with relevant regulations and standards. Ask about their data security protocols, certifications, and compliance practices to ensure your data is safe and secure.
6. Negotiate Clear Terms and Expectations: Before signing a contract with an IT outsourcing partner, make sure to negotiate clear terms and expectations. Define the scope of work, project timelines, deliverables, pricing, and any other important details in writing. This will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure both parties are on the same page throughout the outsourcing partnership.
Finding the right IT outsourcing partner can have a significant impact on your business success. By following these tips and doing thorough research, you can find a partner that meets your needs, aligns with your values, and helps you achieve your business goals. Outsourcing IT services can be a valuable investment for your business, so take the time to find the right partner for a successful and productive partnership.
In today’s increasingly digital world, businesses rely heavily on technology to operate efficiently and effectively. From managing customer data to facilitating communication between employees, technology plays a crucial role in driving business success. However, with the ever-evolving landscape of technology, many businesses struggle to keep up with the latest advancements and trends. This is where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come in.
MSPs offer a range of services to help businesses manage their IT infrastructure, from network monitoring and security to cloud computing and data backup. By outsourcing these tasks to an MSP, businesses can focus on their core operations and leave the technical aspects to the experts. But with so many MSPs to choose from, how do you know which one is the right fit for your business? Here are some tips to help you find the perfect MSP for your needs.
1. Define your needs and goals
Before you start your search for an MSP, it’s important to clearly define your business needs and goals. What are your current pain points when it comes to IT? Do you need help with network security, data backup, or cloud computing? By understanding your specific requirements, you can narrow down your search to MSPs that specialize in the services you need.
2. Research potential MSPs
Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, start researching potential MSPs in your area. Look for MSPs with experience in your industry and a track record of success. Check online reviews and ask for references from other businesses that have worked with the MSP. You can also reach out to industry associations or local business organizations for recommendations.
3. Consider the MSP’s capabilities and expertise
When evaluating MSPs, consider their capabilities and expertise in the services you require. Do they have experience working with businesses of your size and industry? Are they up-to-date on the latest technology trends and advancements? A reputable MSP should have a team of skilled professionals who can provide expert advice and support for your IT needs.
4. Evaluate the MSP’s security measures
Security is a top priority for businesses when it comes to IT infrastructure. Make sure the MSP you choose has robust security measures in place to protect your data and systems from cyber threats. Ask about their security protocols, encryption methods, and disaster recovery plans to ensure your business is in safe hands.
5. Assess the MSP’s customer service and support
Finally, consider the MSP’s customer service and support offerings. Will they be available 24/7 to address any issues or concerns that may arise? Do they offer proactive monitoring and maintenance to prevent downtime and disruptions? A reliable MSP should be responsive and proactive in their approach to customer support.
Choosing the right MSP for your business is a crucial decision that can have a significant impact on your operations and success. By following these tips and conducting thorough research, you can find the perfect MSP that meets your needs and helps your business thrive in the digital age.
In today’s digital age, data is the lifeblood of any organization. From customer information to financial records, businesses rely on data to make strategic decisions and drive growth. However, data loss can happen in an instant due to a variety of factors such as human error, hardware failure, cyber attacks, or natural disasters. That’s why having a reliable data backup and recovery solution in place is crucial for any organization.
Data backup and recovery solutions are designed to protect your data by creating copies of it and storing them in a secure location. In the event of data loss, these solutions allow you to quickly recover your data and minimize downtime. But with a plethora of options available in the market, finding the right fit for your organization can be a daunting task. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a data backup and recovery solution:
1. Scalability: As your organization grows, so does your data. It’s important to choose a solution that can easily scale to meet your changing storage needs without compromising performance.
2. Reliability: Look for a solution that offers reliable backup and recovery capabilities. This includes features such as regular backups, encryption, and automated recovery processes.
3. Compatibility: Make sure the solution is compatible with your existing systems and software. It should seamlessly integrate with your IT infrastructure to ensure a smooth backup and recovery process.
4. Cost-effectiveness: Consider the cost of the solution, including upfront costs, ongoing maintenance fees, and potential hidden costs. Choose a solution that offers a good balance between cost and features.
5. Security: Data security is paramount. Ensure the solution you choose offers robust security measures to protect your data from unauthorized access or cyber attacks.
6. Ease of use: Look for a solution that is user-friendly and easy to manage. A complex solution that requires extensive training to use may not be the best fit for your organization.
7. Support: Choose a vendor that offers reliable customer support and technical assistance. In the event of a data loss, you should be able to quickly reach out to the vendor for help.
Ultimately, the right data backup and recovery solution for your organization will depend on your specific needs and budget. It’s important to carefully evaluate your options and choose a solution that offers the best combination of features, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. By investing in a reliable data backup and recovery solution, you can ensure the safety and security of your organization’s most valuable asset – its data.
In today’s technology-driven world, businesses rely heavily on their IT infrastructure to operate efficiently and effectively. However, managing and maintaining this infrastructure can be a daunting task, especially for small and medium-sized businesses that may not have the resources or expertise to do so. This is where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come in.
MSPs are third-party companies that offer a range of IT services, such as network monitoring, data backup, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, to businesses for a monthly fee. By outsourcing these services to an MSP, businesses can free up their internal IT staff to focus on more strategic initiatives, while also gaining access to a team of experts who can provide round-the-clock support and expertise.
Choosing the right MSP for your business is crucial, as they will become a trusted partner in helping you manage and secure your IT infrastructure. Here are some tips for finding the perfect MSP for your business:
1. Determine your needs: Before you start your search for an MSP, take the time to assess your current IT infrastructure and identify any pain points or areas that need improvement. This will help you narrow down your search and find an MSP that can address your specific needs.
2. Look for experience and expertise: When choosing an MSP, it’s important to look for a company that has a proven track record of success and a team of experts with the skills and knowledge to support your business. Look for MSPs that have experience working with businesses in your industry and that offer services tailored to your specific needs.
3. Consider scalability: As your business grows, your IT needs will evolve as well. Look for an MSP that can scale with your business and provide the flexibility to adapt to changing requirements. This will help ensure that your IT infrastructure remains secure and efficient as your business expands.
4. Check for certifications and compliance: When choosing an MSP, it’s important to check for certifications and compliance with industry standards and regulations. This will ensure that the MSP follows best practices and maintains the highest level of security for your data and systems.
5. Evaluate customer support: A reliable MSP should offer 24/7 customer support to address any issues or concerns that may arise. Look for an MSP that provides responsive and proactive support to ensure that your IT infrastructure remains up and running at all times.
Choosing the right MSP for your business is a critical decision that can have a significant impact on your operations and success. By following these tips and conducting thorough research, you can find the perfect partner to help you manage and secure your IT infrastructure effectively.
In today’s fast-paced business world, IT outsourcing has become a popular solution for companies looking to streamline their operations and reduce costs. By partnering with an IT outsourcing provider, businesses can access a team of skilled professionals who can handle everything from software development to network management.
However, choosing the right IT outsourcing partner is crucial to the success of your business. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect fit. Here are some tips to help you navigate the selection process and find the best partner for your company:
1. Define your goals and requirements: Before you start searching for an IT outsourcing partner, it’s important to clearly define your goals and requirements. What specific services do you need? What are your budget constraints? By having a clear understanding of your needs, you can narrow down your options and find a partner that aligns with your business objectives.
2. Conduct thorough research: Once you have a clear idea of what you’re looking for in an IT outsourcing partner, it’s time to start researching potential candidates. Look for companies that have a strong track record of success and positive reviews from past clients. Consider reaching out to other businesses in your industry for recommendations.
3. Assess their technical expertise: When evaluating potential IT outsourcing partners, it’s important to assess their technical expertise. Look for providers that have experience in your industry and a proven track record of delivering high-quality services. Ask for case studies or examples of their work to get a sense of their capabilities.
4. Consider their communication style: Effective communication is key to a successful outsourcing partnership. Look for providers that are responsive, proactive, and transparent in their communication. Make sure they are able to clearly articulate their processes and keep you informed throughout the project.
5. Evaluate their security measures: Data security is a top priority for businesses outsourcing IT services. Make sure the provider you choose has robust security measures in place to protect your sensitive information. Ask about their data encryption protocols, access controls, and compliance certifications.
6. Look for scalability and flexibility: As your business grows, your IT needs may change. Choose a partner that can scale their services to accommodate your evolving requirements. Look for providers that offer flexible pricing models and customizable solutions to meet your specific needs.
7. Consider cultural fit: Finally, consider the cultural fit between your company and the IT outsourcing partner. Look for a provider that shares your values and work ethic. A strong cultural fit can lead to a more productive and collaborative relationship.
Finding the right IT outsourcing partner can be a challenging process, but by following these tips, you can find a provider that meets your needs and helps your business thrive. With the right partner by your side, you can streamline your operations, reduce costs, and stay ahead of the competition.
In today’s fast-paced business world, many companies are turning to IT outsourcing as a way to streamline operations, reduce costs, and gain access to specialized expertise. However, finding the right IT outsourcing partner can be a daunting task. With so many options available, how can you ensure that you are choosing the right partner for your business? Here are some tips for success when searching for an IT outsourcing partner.
1. Define your needs and goals
Before you start searching for an IT outsourcing partner, it’s important to clearly define your needs and goals. What specific IT services do you require? What are your long-term goals for your business? By having a clear understanding of what you need, you can better evaluate potential partners and ensure that they can meet your requirements.
2. Conduct thorough research
When looking for an IT outsourcing partner, it’s important to conduct thorough research. Look for companies that have experience working with businesses in your industry, and check their references to ensure they have a track record of success. Additionally, consider factors such as location, language proficiency, and cultural compatibility when evaluating potential partners.
3. Evaluate communication and collaboration
Effective communication and collaboration are essential when working with an IT outsourcing partner. Make sure that the partner you choose has strong communication skills and is able to work seamlessly with your in-house team. Consider factors such as time zone differences and language barriers, and ensure that the partner you choose can effectively overcome these challenges.
4. Consider security and compliance
When outsourcing IT services, it’s crucial to consider security and compliance requirements. Make sure that the partner you choose has robust security measures in place to protect your data and comply with industry regulations. Ask about their security protocols, data encryption practices, and compliance certifications to ensure that your business is in safe hands.
5. Negotiate a clear contract
Once you have selected an IT outsourcing partner, it’s important to negotiate a clear contract that outlines the scope of services, pricing, timeline, and other important details. Make sure that the contract includes provisions for service level agreements, data security, and dispute resolution processes to protect your business interests.
Finding the right IT outsourcing partner can be a challenging process, but by following these tips for success, you can ensure that you choose a partner that meets your needs and helps your business thrive. By defining your needs, conducting thorough research, evaluating communication and collaboration, considering security and compliance, and negotiating a clear contract, you can set your business up for success with the right IT outsourcing partner.
