Global MSP Network Aims To Spread The Word

For managed service providers, however, evangelism takes its own unique shape, thanks to the fledgling nonprofit organization known as the Global MSP Network (GMN). This outfit, founded by chip maker Intel in June 2001, is designed to inspire MSPs and IT organizations to adopt the MSP business model for the future. Essentially, its goal is to spread the word.

"We're not proselytizing, but we're certainly trying to get people on board," said Dan Atkinson, the group's chairperson and executive vice president of marketing and alliances at Lindon, Utah-based DirectPointe, a charter member. "In this industry, there's no such thing as too much interest."

By providing Web-based resources, educational Webinars, collaboration and networking opportunities, the GMN strives to enable MSPs to communicate and share best practices about expanding business and channel programs in their respective market segments. The organization also has succeeded in bringing in larger, more

technology-oriented companies, such as BMC Software and Executive Business Services International.

So far, it appears these efforts have worked. In a little more than three years, the organization has attracted 10 new MSPs. In addition to DirectPointe, members include ABtech, Portland, Ore.; Alvaka Networks, Huntington Beach, Calif.; Hughes-Calihan, Phoenix; JustWorks, San Jose, Calif.; MicroMenders, San Francisco; RSpeed, Pleasanton, Calif.; Symetriq, Minneapolis; TriPower Systems, Canton, Ohio; Barbedwire Technologies, Tracy, Calif.; and A Network Service, Boise, Idaho.

Guess a little evangelism doesn't hurt, after all.