From new research and partnerships to new programs and a just-launched consultancy, MSP Success has this week’s look at what MSPs need to know.
TD SYNNEX Special Report: MSPs Moving to Business Consulting and High-Growth Technology
Looking ahead to 2024, MSPs expect the top areas for growth will be data analytics, artificial intelligence/machine learning, and augmented reality/virtual reality, overtaking 2023’s growth leaders of networking and security, according to a just-released special report from TD SYNNEX, conducted in partnership with Canalys.
The report, a supplement to the TD SYNNEX 2023 Direction of Technology Report that focuses on MSP survey respondents, also finds that a majority (65%) of MSPs cite business consulting and planning as their top investment priority. And a full 80% say that expanding their technology solution offerings, with an eye on selling new high-growth technologies, moving into global markets, and entering new industry verticals, is important or very important for growth.
“The report provides a clear view that the MSPs are moving to what we call high-growth technology,” says Sergio Farache, chief strategy officer, TD SYNNEX, in a conversation with MSP Success. “That is fundamentally ideas like lifecycle management, cloud, security, data, and a significant growth in the interest and dedication to the AI space.”
As a result, data analytics, security, networking, and AI/ML are the top skills MSPs say they are hiring for. However, the skills gap remains a challenge, especially in high-growth technology expertise, according to the report. MSPs say that talent recruitment and retainment and ongoing technical education are among their top challenges, along with keeping up with the rapid technological change.
Farache says specialization is a growth driver. “Either you are specialized in security, you are specialized in cloud, you’re specialized in AI. The customers have the same problem that partners [have]—they don’t find the skills that they need to run their projects. More customers are in some way relying on the MSPs or their partners to bring those solutions to market and they [MSPs] need that level of specialization.”
IDC Forecasts Revenue for AI-Centric Software Will Reach $279 Billion Worldwide in 2027
In a new report, Worldwide Artificial Intelligence Software Forecast, 2023–2027, International Data Corporation (IDC) predicts that the worldwide artificial intelligence software (AI-centric) market will grow from $64 billion in 2022 to nearly $251 billion in 2027 at a 31.4% compound annual growth rate. The forecast for AI-centric software includes AI platforms, AI applications, AI system infrastructure software, and AI application development and deployment software. However, it does not include generative AI platforms and applications, which IDC recently forecast will generate revenues of $28.3 billion in 2027.
“The momentum behind investments in AI and automation technologies remains unwavering despite economic uncertainty and shifting market dynamics,” said Raghunandhan Kuppuswamy, research manager, artificial intelligence and automation research at IDC, in a press statement. “Businesses are realizing that utilizing cutting-edge technology is not only a strategic necessity but also a crucial factor in achieving long-term success. Despite potential challenges and risks, organizations are confident that adopting AI will continue to be crucial for future proofing their business operations and remaining ahead of the competition.”
Five Consulting/Coaching Companies Partner to Launch MSP+OS
Newly launched company, MSP+OS, a consultancy offering data migration, systems optimization, and executive coaching for managed service providers, was formed through the coming together of five channel industry firms: Sierra Pacific Group, Delta Vita, XPM2 Partners, Stack Advisors, and ConnectStrat.
The new company will have a dual focus on platform transformation and software integration, according to MSP+OS Chief Technology Officer Bill Stucklen, former CEO of Stack Advisors, a ConnectWise automation specialist.
Adam Bielanski, formerly CEO of Sierra Pacific Group, which offered operational service consulting and ConnectWise systems integrations, will be leading the new entity as chief executive. MSP+OS will be headquartered in Las Vegas.
Syncro Partners With Acronis For Backup and Storage
Syncro, a PSA/RMM and remote support platform for MSPs, is partnering with Acronis to offer backup and storage management solutions from within the Syncro platform. The new offering provides integrated backup and anti-ransomware technologies, including automated URL filtering, vulnerability assessments, patch management, and more. All Syncro partners will have access to the entire Acronis Cyber Protect suite plus Acronis technical support.
MSP360 and iT1 Source Join Forces to Address Security Challenges
MSP360, a provider of backup and IT management solutions for MSPs and IT departments, has partnered with iT1 Source, a global, full-service, technology solution provider, to deliver solutions and services designed to address security challenges in numerous sectors, specifically education, health care, and government. According to the companies, customers can expect enhanced post-sale technical support, a unified point of contact for all inquiries, licensing assistance, and cost savings. The alliance also promises flexibility in procurement processes, payment methods, and a seamless software adoption process that includes installation, configuration, and ongoing support.
ExtraHop Launches Zero Trust Extension for Netskope
ExtraHop, a cloud-native network detection and response (NDR) provider, announced the ExtraHop Zero Trust Extension for Netskope, a security service edge (SSE) vendor. The integration with Netskope’s recently announced Cloud TAP is helping to close the network visibility gap and enable effective zero-trust architectures, according to ExtraHop. The integration offers deep visibility into the behaviors and communications among devices and services in remote and distributed networks, across on-premises, hybrid, and cloud, at any scale.
Joint customers will be able to analyze network data from Netskope Intelligent SSE using Reveal(x), the NDR platform from ExtraHop, to detect and respond to security threats and performance issues in remote traffic and cloud-based applications.
An early access program is available now.
Halo Security Debuts New Channel Partner Program
Halo Security, an external attack surface management and penetration testing company, launched a new channel partner program for MSPs and resellers. The program offers subscription-based external attack surface management, manual penetration testing, and external vulnerability management.
For more information on becoming a partner, visit Halo Security’s Partner Page.
