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Summary: Set Your MSP Up for Success in 2026

Practical Next Steps for MSPs With a Growth Mindset

2026 marks a pivotal moment for MSPs as the industry navigates rapid technological change, economic pressures, and new opportunities for growth. As the traditional IT support model fades, MSPs are stepping into the role of strategic technology advisors — moving beyond “keeping the lights on” to actively driving business outcomes for their clients.

For MSPs that want to become more strategic partners this year, here are some next steps to consider based on this year’s report:

1. Benchmark your performance.

See how your MSP stacks up against your peers using the size toggle below key graphs. If you’re below average, review our ‘Top Performer’ profiles at the end of each chapter to identify best practices that could positively impact your MSP.

2. Ask employees for feedback.

We found significant differences in how customer-facing employees and executives view business operations and client relationships. Consider building feedback channels with staff to stay aligned — or share this report to start the conversation.

3. Compare your tech stack.

How do your software choices compare to the rest of the channel? And how far along are you on your AI adoption journey? Assess your tech stack and AI strategy by reviewing insights from Chapter 3 to streamline workflows and drive efficiency.

4. Redefine Customer Success.

Most MSPs say they have a Customer Success program — but many lack the maturity to make it a true differentiator. Read our Customer Success Planning Guide for methodologies and frameworks to drive client engagement, retention, and growth.

5. Expand your GRC offerings.

Compliance-related services are a potential goldmine for MSPs — but getting started can be overwhelming. Find out what it really takes to build your own vCISO service from scratch based on advice from leading experts in our six-part webinar series.

6. Stay ahead of economic shifts.

Market volatility is a top pain point for MSPs in 2026. Learn how to better navigate shrinking client budgets, rising costs, and economic uncertainty from a panel of MSP experts in our recent tariffs webinar and accompanying PDF checklist.

Go from reactive service to strategic impact with ScalePad.

Grow your business with the unified platform for client monitoring, planning, and insights — built for MSPs by former MSP owners.

Deliver real business outcomes to your clients at scale with solutions for Customer Success and vCIO services; GRC and cybersecurity risk management; real-time backup monitoring; and quote-to-cash automation.

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