Redefining the cloud business landscape - MSPs turn to automation and cybersecurity

The MSP landscape in 2023 and beyond is defined by an upsurge in automation for MSPs and customers, a rising demand for cybersecurity services, and the imperative to embrace modernisation, including the integration of AI.

“In 2023, automation stands out as a pivotal trend reshaping the MSP landscape. Both MSPs and their clients are increasingly recognising the value of automating routine tasks and processes. In an era where time is of the essence, automation emerges as a game-changer,” according to Hanh Tran, Leader Cloud Business Manager.  

LEADER - an end-to-end MSP distributor - recognises these top trends and positions itself as a proactive partner, ensuring MSPs “stay ahead of the curve,” by providing a marketplace of cloud solutions, pre-built integrations, and business advisory to help partners grow their cloud business.

Under the guidance of LEADER, MSPs can deploy automation for activities such as system monitoring, patch management, and resource provisioning, thereby alleviating the workload on MSP teams and improving service delivery, enabling a sharper focus on strategic initiatives, Hanh notes. 

“Another dominant trend in the MSP and cloud markets is the escalating demand for cybersecurity services. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, MSPs need robust solutions to protect their clients' data and systems,” he says. 

"Maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture is essential for building client trust, and MSPs must have access to the latest and most effective solutions to effectively mitigate the severe consequences that data breaches can inflict."

Certainly, there’s a positive upward trend in the market. According to Statista Market Insights, the managed services sector in Australia is anticipated to experience a 1.86% growth from 2023 to 2028, resulting in a market volume of US$0.68 billion by 2028.

Simultaneously, the global market size for cloud managed services reached $83.3 billion in 2021 and is expected to expand to $319.4 billion by 2031. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.5% from 2022 to 2031.

Indeed, in the ever-expanding realm of cloud services, Leader Cloud is emerging as a beacon for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), aiming to usher partners into a new era of success and innovation. 

A Mission to Empower

According to Hanh Tran, Leader Cloud is setting a bold mission as a Cloud Service Provider (CSP) Distributor – to empower MSPs with the tools and resources needed to thrive in the competitive cloud services industry. 

“Being the 'new kid on the block' doesn't faze us; it fuels our determination to stand out, and we aim to redefine the landscape of cloud businesses.” 

The plan for differentiation is clear – addressing the main pain points facing MSPs today. “In a world inundated with options, Leader aims to streamline the cloud journey for MSPs, making it a seamless experience from start to finish.” 

Addressing Pain Points

Certainly, the main pain points for MSPs are multifaceted – from creating profitable cloud businesses to avoiding common pitfalls and embracing modernisation. 

“Partners need a guiding force, and require a streamlined marketplace of cloud solutions, pre-built integrations, and business advisory services. Distributors need to provide a holistic approach, recognising the intricate challenges MSPs encounter on their cloud ventures.” 

Additionally, it’s important to provide tailored benefits for MSPs. “One size doesn't fit all in the cloud services realm. Leader Cloud acknowledges the diverse needs of MSPs and tailors benefits accordingly. Whether a burgeoning startup or an established enterprise, MSPs partnering with Leader gain access to a suite of resources designed to elevate their specific requirements.” 

What’s more, overcoming cloud scepticism is a trend in the market. “While some companies are hesitating to fully embrace the cloud, distributors need to act as a bridge and guide MSPs on how to sway the sceptics. Transitioning to the cloud is not a universally applicable solution, and companies need the right information and guidance to understand the tangible benefits.”

Navigating the Billing Challenge 

At the same time, another top trend to highlight that’s impacting the MSP world is billing, which remains a stumbling block for many MSPs. 

The challenge needs to be tackled head-on, and MSPs should implement solutions to alleviate the pain associated with billing.

“The journey for MSPs needs to be as smooth as possible, even in the complex landscape of cloud services - and billing is an ongoing problem that needs remedied.” 

Additionally, addressing billing challenges is crucial for ensuring the efficiency and success of managed service providers in navigating the intricate realm of cloud services, Hanh says. 

Unveiling the Future 

As the cloud landscape evolves, MSPs are under increasing pressure to navigate the intricate path to growth and success.

Building partnerships is crucial for success. "As MSPs establish themselves in the cloud services industry, they can view Leader not only as a distributor, but also as a strategic ally in their journey toward excellence in the cloud."