Why Managed IT Services Make Financial Sense
One of the greatest advantages of partnering with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) like Upward Technology is the elimination of budgeting uncertainty and unexpected costs that often accompany traditional IT management approaches.
Instead of relying on expensive hourly consultants who arrive only after your network has already experienced problems, our MSP model delivers comprehensive proactive support—both onsite and remote—for a predictable monthly fee.
But not all MSPs structure their pricing the same way. As you consider your options, understanding how MSP pricing works will help you make a more informed decision about the right technology partner for your business.
The Three Common MSP Pricing Models Explained
- Per-User Pricing
This straightforward approach provides complete support for each user regardless of how many devices they access—workstations, laptops, tablets, or mobile phones.
At Upward Technology, our per-user pricing typically ranges from $75 to $250 per user monthly, with the specific rate determined by:
- The scope of technical support required
- Your cybersecurity protection needs
- Regulatory compliance requirements specific to your industry
- Internal IT staffing levels (which can reduce your costs when our services complement your team)
Benefits: Easily scalable and predictable as your team grows or contracts.
- Per-Device Pricing
This model calculates costs based on the number and types of devices requiring support. While it offers flexibility for organizations with unique device environments, it can become complex to manage and budget for as your technology footprint evolves.
Benefits: Can be cost-effective for organizations with fewer devices per user or specialized equipment needs.
- Risk-Based Pricing
This emerging model has gained traction as cybersecurity, compliance and co-management have become critical business concerns. By assessing the cybersecurity risk profile of your organization, this approach helps align your investment in IT services with your specific risk exposure.
Benefits: Creates greater transparency around security investments and ensures appropriate protection levels for your specific business needs.
The Upward Technology Approach to Pricing
At Upward Technology, we’ve developed a hybrid pricing approach that combines elements from each model to create the most efficient and transparent pricing strategy for each client. Our process involves:
- Discovery Meeting: We begin by understanding your business goals, current technology environment, and growth plans.
- Technology & Risk Assessment: Our team evaluates your existing infrastructure, security posture, and compliance requirements.
- Strategic Alignment: We develop a support plan that aligns with your business objectives and technology requirements.
- Customized Pricing: Based on these factors, we provide a comprehensive quote that reflects your specific needs rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
What You’re Really Paying For: The Value Behind the Price
When evaluating MSP pricing, it’s crucial to understand what you’re actually getting for your investment. At Upward Technology, our pricing includes:
Proactive Network Monitoring & Management
- 24/7 monitoring of critical systems
- Regular maintenance to prevent issues before they affect your business
- Automated updates and patch management
Responsive Support When You Need It
- Clearly defined response times in our Service Level Agreements
- Multiple support channels (phone, email, portal)
- Escalation procedures for critical issues
Strategic Technology Planning
- Regular technology reviews
- Budgeting assistance for hardware and software upgrades
- Technology roadmapping aligned with your business goals
Cybersecurity Protection
- Multi-layered security approach
- Employee security awareness training
- Vulnerability assessments and remediation
Warning Signs of Problematic MSP Pricing
As you evaluate potential IT partners, be wary of these red flags that often indicate subpar service quality:
Unrealistically Low Pricing
Quality IT service depends on skilled professionals. If an MSP’s pricing is significantly below market rates, they likely can’t afford adequate staffing or training for their technicians. We’re transparent about our pricing range ($75-$250 per user) because we understand the real costs of delivering excellent service.
Hidden Fees and Unexpected Charges
Your monthly bill should never contain surprises. Reputable MSPs like Upward Technology provide clear definitions of what’s included in your monthly service and what constitutes project work outside those boundaries.
One-Size-Fits-All Pricing
Every business has unique technology needs. Be cautious of MSPs that offer identical packages without thoroughly assessing your specific requirements. Our discovery process ensures we understand your business before proposing any solution.
Free Onboarding
Some companies offer “specials” for free onboarding. In our experience, these vendors typically have a very lightweight onboarding system that involves deploying a variety of automated tools and doing a lightweight review of the topical data.
Onboarding is the most important project you will ever do with your provider, and there are no shortcuts to the deep understanding of your business that your partner needs to quickly become a true strategic advisor to your business. Imagine a new doctor suggesting that they will just dump your medical chart into ChatGPT and that will give them everything they need to know about your health.
Partner With Upward Technology for Transparent, Value-Driven IT Support
The right MSP relationship delivers more than just technical support—it provides a strategic partnership that drives your business forward while keeping your technology safe, reliable, and aligned with your goals.
At Upward Technology, we pride ourselves on:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Customized service plans based on your specific needs
- Clear communication throughout our relationship
- Proactive support that prevents issues before they impact your business
