MSP Evaluation
For financial services firms, the right IT support model depends on internal resources, business goals, compliance requirements, and cybersecurity maturity. Firms with 10 to 50 employees often benefit from fully managed IT, while organizations with 51 to 250 employees often choose co-managed IT to supplement internal staff.
What Is Fully Managed IT?
- Help desk support
- Device management
- Microsoft 365 administration
- Cybersecurity management
- Vendor management
- Strategic planning
What Is Co-Managed IT?
- Escalation support
- Cybersecurity expertise
- Advanced monitoring
- Project assistance
- Compliance support
- Strategic consulting
Comparison Framework
| Factor | Fully Managed IT | Co-Managed IT |
|---|---|---|
| Internal staff requirements | None required | Works alongside existing IT staff |
| Accountability | Single point of accountability | Shared between internal team and MSP |
| Cybersecurity management | Fully handled by the provider | Provider supplements internal capacity |
| Strategic planning | Included as vCIO guidance | Added as strategic consulting |
| Cost structure | Per-user monthly rate | Scoped to gaps in internal coverage |
Which Model Fits?
Fully managed fits firms under 50 employees without internal IT. Co-managed fits firms with internal IT that need deeper support. Either way, managed IT pricing considerations should factor into the decision alongside team size.
Real Client Scenario
A Wayzata-area financial services firm with 11 to 50 employees needed a more secure and modern workplace technology environment while strengthening identity management and compliance controls. Veracity Technologies deployed Microsoft 365 Business Premium, integrated Microsoft Entra ID, and implemented modern security policies including multifactor authentication, conditional access, and centralized device management.
As a result, the firm improved its cybersecurity posture, streamlined user provisioning and access management, increased visibility through security and compliance reporting, and established a scalable technology foundation supported by proactive communication and ongoing strategic guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best starting point?
Start with a clear review of your current environment, risks, support needs, and business goals.
How often should this be reviewed?
Most firms should review this at least annually and revisit it when the business, regulations, or technology environment changes.
Why does this matter for financial services firms?
Financial firms handle sensitive data and often need stronger cybersecurity, compliance readiness, and operational resilience.
What should leadership ask first?
Ask what risk this reduces, what business outcome it supports, and how it fits into the broader IT roadmap.
How can Veracity help?
Veracity can help evaluate the current environment, identify gaps, and build a practical roadmap for cybersecurity, compliance, and strategic IT planning.
Determine the Right IT Support Model for Your Firm
Use this guide to start a practical conversation about cybersecurity, compliance, strategic planning, and support maturity.
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