VARs, Clouds and MSPs

What do VARs and Clouds as well as MSPs have in common?

Several things it turns out:

• Some Value Added Resellers (VARS) sell cloud services or solutions
• Some VARs are also cloud or managed solutions providers (MSPs) themselves, thus some cloud or MSPs are VARs
• Some VARs, cloud and MSPs compete on lowest or cheapest price
• Some VARs, cloud and MSPs have diverse product offering portfolios
• Some VARs, cloud and MSPs compete on value (e.g. not price)
• Some VARs cloud and MSPs value is in the trust and security or piece of mind that they provide

For some, the value of a given VAR, cloud or MSP is the ability to shop around for a resource to get the lowest price.

For others, the value of a given VAR, cloud or MSP is the ability to get the best value which may not be the lowest price, however may be the most effective overall cost, services, trust, security, experience and peace of mind.

Value to often is confused with cheap or low cost.

However value can also mean a slightly higher price that includes more thus providing a better effective option.

On the other hand, higher priced should not be confused with always being a better product or service.

Watch out for hidden fees or add on charges when evaluating and acquiring technologies or services that have an initial value of being lower cost.

You may find that the initial low cost requires other add on fees or charges for installation, surcharges for use or activity along with optional services to make the solution useful resulting in an overall higher amount to be paid.

Lowest cost may result in a bargain now and then or if that is what fits your needs, then that is what is probably best for you.

However value can also mean a better option providing an improved return on investment if the solution or service meets and exceeds your needs and expectations.

As an example, I recently switched from a cloud backup MSP (Mozy) not due to cost (costs would have gone down with their recent service plan
announcement) rather I needed more value and functionality. 

With my new cloud backup MSP I get more functionality and capability that I can continue to grow into even though the price per GByte is higher than with my previous provider. What made the change of positive is what I get in the higher fee per GByte that in the end, actually makes it more affordable, not cheaper, just better value and return on investment.

For some low cost is value while for others, value is more than lowest cost including what you get for a given fee including trust, security, service and experience among other items. Different people will have different requirements or needs for what is or is not value.

If you do not like the term value, then try price performer.

Bottom line for now, with VARs, MSPs and Cloud (Public or private) dont be scared, however look before you leap!