What is a Vendor Liaison and why is one Crucial to your Communications Solution?

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You already know about most of the benefits a Managed Service Provider (MSP) can offer. However, one often overlooked but extremely important benefit is the fact that an MSP can act as your company’s vendor liaison. Learn how this valuable service can save you time and money.

What is an IT vendor liaison? 

When you work with multiple third party hardware and software vendors, it can be hard to manage each relationship. A vendor liaison can communicate with all of these partners on your behalf regarding issues covered by maintenance agreements or warranties. This is especially great for small to mid-size businesses that often don’t get the support they need from vendors like larger businesses with bigger budgets do.

Why are vendor liaisons important?

First, and perhaps most importantly, having someone handle your vendor relationships saves you time and frustration. Third-party management can be complex and may require a lot of back-and-forth communication. With an MSP, all of that communication is done for you! The provider acts as your first line of defense when problems arise or support is needed, working directly with the vendor to get you what you need to operate efficiently.

Unfortunately, vendor management is something that can easily be pushed to the back burner during busy times, meaning your company could be missing out on savings and other business opportunities. A formalized vendor management process will ensure that contracts are maintained, costs are kept to a minimum, and will give vendors a single, reliable point of contact at your company. Furthermore, many MSPs have already existing relationships with vendors that can be used to your benefit.

An MSP can also advise you when hardware or software should be upgraded or replaced. As technology becomes outdated or new vendors enter the market, your liaison can take the headache out of searching for a new vendor or solution.

Are you looking for a company to take the stress out of IT management? Call Warwick today to get started.