As a small MSP, scaling your business can be challenging. Limited resources and inefficient workflows can make it difficult to find time for business development and growth initiatives. However, with the right tools and strategies, your MSP can overcome these challenges. By far, the best solution is professional services automation (PSA) software.

In this post, you’ll learn just how PSA tools can support your small MSP's growth ambitions and help you thrive in a competitive market.

Challenges Faced by Small MSPs

Due to their size, smaller managed services businesses face unique challenges compared to larger competitors. For many, limited resources and tighter budgets means that more manual work is done by more people and there’s less opportunity to focus on growth initiatives.

Larger MSPs can dedicate teams to certain tasks, but billing, time tracking, and servicing are often shared responsibilities at smaller organizations. As a result, workflows are less optimized and it becomes easier to fall behind on SLAs. This places smaller MSPs at a unique risk of losing clients and revenue.

What is PSA Software?

Professional services automation (PSA) software is a solution designed to help MSPs effectively run their business. Key features of PSA software include project management, invoicing, time tracking, and reporting capabilities.

For smaller MSPs, PSA software can help them streamline operations with automated workflows and processes.

With detailed insights and less reliance on manual tasks, PSA software can help you better manage your organization and free up time to focus on growth initiatives. Popular PSA tools include ConnectWise, Atera, and Zest. When comparing options, just be sure the software you select is right to manage the unique needs of your small business.

How PSA Software Can Help Scale Your Small MSP

Ultimately, scale comes from planning and implementing efforts to grow your business. When you’re bogged down in manual tasks, there’s little time to focus on growth initiatives. That’s where PSA software can help.

Small MSPs can leverage PSA tools to automate tasks including invoicing, billing, and reporting. This not only saves time but also helps improve accuracy as well.

PSA software can improve time management for all team members by better tracking time spent on activities and allocating resources more effectively. And with built-in customer portals, your client satisfaction and retention rates will improve as well, allowing you to consistently keep and attract more business.

Tips for Choosing PSA Software

Not all PSA solutions are created equal. As a small MSP, you’ll want to find an easily implementable option that can ideally support your business needs today and in the future as you grow and expand. Start by identifying your goals, budget, and desired features.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, consider implementation. Is the software too complex for your business today? Can your team be easily trained on it? Is ongoing training and support offered?

For smaller MSPs especially, the added complexity can cost valuable time and energy. While the flashy features may seem nice, it’s usually not worth the money and effort for smaller enterprises.

Bottom Line

For small MSPs, PSA software can be a game-changer when it comes to effectively scaling your business. By automating workflows, improving time management, and enhancing customer servicing, PSA tools can help MSPs improve efficiency and better serve their clients.

If you’re exploring options to streamline your operations and give you the time to focus on ways to grow and expand your business, there are several PSA tools on the market. Smaller MSPs in particular have found success with Zest, an optimized, out-of-the-box solution that can not only support your business operations today but grow with you as you take on new clients. Try it out for free and see if it works well for your growing enterprise.