The benefits of CSP and how to choose the right CSP partner

Article Aug 29, 2024

Customers often ask why they should purchase Microsoft cloud services through a Cloud Solution Provider (CSP). While CSP provides a flexible and straightforward way to licence Microsoft technologies such as Microsoft 365 and Azure, the value extends beyond licensing alone.

At Trustmarque Ultima, we see CSP as an ongoing service rather than simply a purchasing agreement. The right CSP partner can help you optimise costs, simplify management and get more value from your Microsoft investment through expert guidance, support and optimisation services.

Why organisations choose CSP

A CSP (Cloud Solution Provider) agreement offers several benefits, including:

Flexibility: Adjust licences and services as your requirements change.
Simplicity: Streamline the procurement and management of Microsoft cloud services.
Cost optimisation: Pay for what you use while maintaining greater visibility and control over spend.
Access to expertise: Benefit from guidance and support to help maximise value from your Microsoft investments.

CSP can be a suitable option for organisations of all sizes, providing a flexible foundation for managing Microsoft cloud technologies.

How important is it to choose the right CSP partner?

Choosing the right CSP partner is just as important as choosing the right licensing model. Your CSP partner plays an ongoing role in helping you manage, support and optimise your Microsoft environment, making their expertise and experience critical to long-term success.

When evaluating potential partners, look for proven Microsoft accreditations, relevant technical expertise and a track record of supporting organisations similar to your own. For instance, Trustmarque Ultima is recognised as an AEMSP (Azure Expert Managed Services Provider), a distinction held by only a few Microsoft partners globally. The Microsoft Azure Expert MSP programme recognises Microsoft partners with the proven expertise and capability to deliver the highest quality of managed end-to-end Microsoft Azure cloud services, from initial planning and design through to implementation, operation and optimisation. If your CSP partner doesn’t have the relevant certifications it limits their capability to provide the required support for CSP services.

What services should I expect from a CSP partner?

Customers should expect the following services from a CSP partner:

Technical support to ensure the technology purchased is supported properly.
Quarterly licence optimisation reporting for customers on the transform level, ensuring they’re buying what they’re using without overspending.
Access to tools that provide visibility and optimisation of their Microsoft investments.
Advice and guidance on Microsoft products to ensure the right technology is being purchased.
Fast track services for M365, among other support services.

How does Trustmarque Ultima differentiate from other CSP partners?

Trustmarque Ultima’s approach to CSP is not solely transactional but deeply service-oriented, with a strong emphasis on providing value through expertise, support, and tailored services.

We believe Trustmarque Ultima differentiates from other CSP providers in several ways:

Expertise and Accreditation: Trustmarque Ultima is one of Microsoft’s largest partners in the UK and holds multiple Microsoft certifications as well as Azure Expert Managed Service Provider (AEMSP). This demonstrates Trustmarque Ultima’s expertise and credibility in supporting customers with their Microsoft investments.
Service-Oriented Approach: Trustmarque Ultima believe a CSP (Cloud Solution Provider) is a service, rather than just an agreement! We focus on the comprehensive support and value-added services we provide our customers, which includes technical support, continuous strategic reviews, licensing optimisation, and access to our PRISM tool for visibility and cost optimisation.
Governance and Security: Trustmarque Ultima is experienced in working with highly regulated sectors such as the Ministry of Defence and NHS. As such our processes and governance are built to high standards of security and compliance.
Tools and Processes: Through our unique tools such as PRISM and our CSP Trust Portal, along with our licensing expertise we can provide unique insights and optimisations for our customers.

To summarise

CSP is more than a licensing agreement. With the right partner, it becomes an opportunity to simplify cloud management, optimise costs and gain access to the expertise needed to support your organisation's goals.

By combining flexibility, ongoing support and optimisation services, a CSP agreement can help organisations get more value from Microsoft technologies today while building a strong foundation for future innovation.

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