Match Made in Tech: Finding Your Ideal Microsoft Support Partner

Finding your perfect fit with a Microsoft Dynamics 365 application support provider can be a challenge. ?You want a partner that help you with mission-critical applications, optimize IT health, and increase the ROI on your tech investments. And let’s not forget, a partner that just “gets” you.

With so many factors to consider, it's easy to get overwhelmed. We’re sharing a checklist to help you select a partner that aligns with your business goals and performance expectations. Let’s dig in.

Define your needs

Before searching for a support provider, you must be clear about what you need. What matters most to your business is 24/7 support, release management, development, or deep technical know-how? Consider prioritizing your list based on skills or resources gaps.

When talking to potential providers, be specific about your needs. The clearer you are, the better they can understand your unique situation and offer solutions that fit.

And don't forget about the future. As your business grows, your support needs might change. Can they help you grow and evolve?

Assess capabilities

When you're checking out potential providers, it's a good idea to see how much they know about Dynamics 365 and if they've worked with companies like yours before. This shows they understand the challenges and what you need.

Also, make sure they have the right people and tools to handle your specific problems. Ask about their team's skills, what certifications they have, and how long they've been doing this.

To get a real feel for how they work, ask for references from other customers. Be sure to ask about D365 know how, service levels, and if they’re getting value from the service.

Align expectations

Make sure you and your partner are on the same page with clear and measurable key performance indicators. For example, what is the expected incident response time? Do these times vary by level? What are the quality and operational performance indicators?

Once decided, be clear on how and when progress will be measured and tracked. Make sure to keep an eye on KPIs regularly and set up a feedback system to continuously monitor and evaluate performance against the agreed standards.

Cost v Value

While price tag is important, don’t let the lowest number be the primary factor in your Microsoft application support partner. You’ll want to consider how a support partner off-sets your need for staff with highly specialized skills, while allowing your team to focus on core business functions and innovation.

Finding the perfect Microsoft Dynamics 365 support partner is like finding the right puzzle piece—it must fit perfectly. By carefully considering your needs, assessing provider capabilities, and aligning expectations, you can confidently select a partner that will elevate your business and help you achieve your goals. Remember, a successful partnership is about more than just technical expertise; it's about finding a provider that understands your unique challenges and can deliver exceptional support tailored to your specific needs.

Start Your Search

Nexer, a global Microsoft Partner, provides support, maintenance, and optimization of Microsoft Dynamics 365 business solutions.?Care 365 offers a suite of flexible services with support from seven global centers to help you maximize your Dynamics 365 ERP investment. Learn more.

About the Author

Mike Sigler , senior director of customer success at Nexer, helps companies maximize their Microsoft Dynamics 365 investment. With 15+ years experience aligning tech with business goals, Mike brings his "do-the-right-thing" approach to helping clients succeed.