[112] Microsoft Stack & Why MSPs May Consider an Alt Service Desk

In this interview, Richard speaks to Scott Riley, the founder of Cloud Nexus, a UK-based MSP specialising in the Microsoft Stack. Scott explains that he decided to niche the business to give a better service, outsourcing other tasks to select partners.

Richard and Scott discussed the pros and cons of working with the Microsoft Stack, and how niching into using it led Scott to set up the Microsoft 365 Masterclass.

Scott shared which tools he uses in Cloud Nexus and why MSPs should outsource their helpdesk. He also shares honestly about the limitations of outsourcing and when it’s not the best option.

Richard also asks Scott about the SOC and helpdesk support he gets from Uptime Solutions, the relationship they have with Cloud Nexus, and why Uptime’s company culture makes them a great fit for the business. Plus, Scott shares the best and worst things about running an MSP.

Mentioned in This Episode

• Microsoft 365
• Azure
• Michael Gerber – The EMyth Revisited
• Uptime Solutions
• Linux
• Collaboration software: SharePoint
• M365 Masterclass
• The Tech Tribe
• Halo PSA
• Datto
• Accounting software: Xero
• Heimdall via Brigantia
• Pax8
• Documentation tool: IT Glue
• Password sync: Keeper
• Cybersecurity Awareness training: KnowBe4
• usecure
• Cofense (formerly PhishMe)
• Third party web content filter: AnyDNS
• Bit Defender
• Sophos
• Intercept X
• ConnectWise (formerly Continuum)
• Service desk: InBay
• MSP Coach: Pete Matheson
• Microsoft Autopilot
• Cybersecurity: Huntress

Mentioned in this episode:

Get MSP Insights every Tuesday

Every Tuesday I share my thoughts on the business of IT with you, the Managed Services community. Thousands of Managed Service Providers already subscribe to MSP Insights. It’s easy to sign up, easy to cancel. MSP Insights is basically a short email from me, every Tuesday without fail, with advice on growing your IT business, plus cool resources I’ve found, discovered or starting exploring that week. It’s kind of like my diary of cool things, and often includes articles or books I’ve read, tools I’ve discovered, and events I think you’d be interested in, often sent to me by my friends and TubbTalk podcast guests. So, if that sounds fun, a short, tiny bite of MSP goodness every Tuesday, and you’d like to try it out, just go to https://go.tubb.co/tuesday, drop in your email and you’ll get the very next one.