Nine services by MSPs that go beyond technical support

Forward-thinking MSPs are becoming catalysts for innovation, driving positive change and providing law firms with a competitive edge, says Quiss

Digital transformation is becoming a business necessity rather than a choice and law firms are increasingly turning to Managed Service Providers (MSPs) for comprehensive IT solutions.

While MSPs are renowned and retained for their expertise in managing a law firm’s IT infrastructure, their role is now expanding far beyond mere technical support.

Law firms are now able to unlock innovation within their business, by contracting MSPs to deliver a range of additional services:

1. Strategic technology planning

Not just fixers of immediate IT issues, MSPs are now becoming strategic partners in technology planning. By collaborating with law firms, MSPs can chart out technology roadmaps aligned with the firm’s business objectives. This includes anticipating future needs, recommending technology upgrades and ensuring that the firm’s IT infrastructure is robust and future-proof.

2. Cybersecurity leadership

The legal sector is a prime target for cyberattacks, whether to extort ransom, disrupt operations or steal sensitive client data. Leading MSPs take a proactive approach to cyber security and not only provide a defence against known threats, but actively lead in implementing progressive cyber security measures, including threat intelligence, continuous monitoring and horizon scanning.

3. Compliance management

Stringent data protection regulations require law firms of all sizes and complexity to adhere to a range of compliance standards. MSPs that specialise in the legal sector are well-versed in the regulations and assist firms in navigating these complex compliance landscapes, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the U.S. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act  (HIPAA) and industry-specific standards to ensure the firm operates within the regulations.

4. Innovation workshops and training

To foster a culture of innovation within their law firm clients, the leading sector-focused MSPs go beyond routine services by conducting innovation workshops and valuable training sessions. These simple initiatives empower legal professionals to leverage technology more effectively, explore new tools and adapt to the changing legal technology landscape.

5. Cloud strategy and migration

As law firms increasingly embrace cloud technology, private, public and hybrid, MSPs play a crucial role in devising and implementing the strategies they will adopt. The right MSP will guide a firm through a seamless migration and ensure all data is securely transitioned to the Cloud, whilst helping the firm optimise its cloud environments, enhancing collaboration, flexibility and scalability.

6. Vendor management and cost optimisation

The right MSP will liaise between law firms and technology vendors. They don’t just manage the relationships, but scrutinise costs, negotiate contracts and ensure that firms can get the best value from their technology investments. It is this proactive approach to vendor management that leads to cost optimisation and improved overall efficiency.

7. Custom software development

Recognising that one size does not fit all, the right MSP will engage in custom software development, tailored to the specific needs of any law firm. This might include the creation of bespoke legal tools, additions to case management systems, or applications that help streamline unique workflows within the firm.

8. Collaboration platforms and unified communications

Effective communication is paramount in a legal environment, internally and externally. The right MSP will implement advanced collaboration platforms and unified communication solutions, to ensure seamless communication between legal professionals, support staff and clients, fostering a more collaborative and productive working environment.

The traditional role of MSPs in the legal sector has transcended the conventional boundaries of problem-solving and IT management. MSPs are now integral partners in driving innovation and ensuring compliance, while enhancing the overall operational efficiency of law firms. As technology continues to evolve, MSPs will play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future legal industry.