The Smart Alternative to MSP Overcharging
Instead of paying the often exorbitant pricing from MSPs or trying to figure out M365 yourself, hiring a specialized partner like Intero can be the perfect way to save your business time and money while still optimizing your M365 process.
Finding Cost-Effective Microsoft 365 Management Without Compromise
You're stuck between a rock and a hard place. Your internal IT team is overwhelmed and lacks Microsoft 365 expertise, but Managed Service Providers are charging ridiculous rates for basic M365 management. What if we told you there's a better way—one that doesn't require choosing between inadequate internal resources and overpriced MSPs?
The False Dilemma
The IT industry has convinced business owners that they only have two choices for Microsoft 365 management:
Option 1: Do It Yourself
Overwhelm your existing IT team
Risk security gaps due to lack of expertise
Struggle with ongoing optimization and monitoring
Accept reactive instead of proactive management
Option 2: Pay MSP Premiums
$25-50 per user per month for basic management
Markup on Microsoft licensing costs
Junior technicians following scripts
Inflexible service packages with hidden fees
But this is a false dilemma. Smart businesses are finding a third option.
The Specialized Partnership Model
Instead of choosing between overwhelmed internal teams and overpriced MSPs, consider the specialized partnership approach:
What It Looks Like:
Your existing IT team handles what they do best
M365 specialists handle security and optimization
Direct Microsoft licensing relationships (no markup)
Transparent, fair pricing based on actual value
Flexible service levels that match your needs
What It Costs:
40-60% less than traditional MSP pricing
No markup on Microsoft licensing
Pay only for services you actually need
Predictable monthly costs with no surprises
The Services That Actually Matter
When evaluating M365 management options, focus on services that provide real value:
Security Optimization:
Conditional access policy configuration
Data loss prevention setup
Advanced threat protection configuration
Regular security posture assessments
Proactive Monitoring:
Security event monitoring and analysis
User behavior analytics
Compliance monitoring and reporting
Performance optimization recommendations
Expert Support:
Direct access to M365 specialists
Rapid response to security incidents
Guidance on new features and capabilities
Training and knowledge transfer
Ongoing Management:
User lifecycle management
License optimization
Policy updates and adjustments
Regular reviews and improvements
What You Don't Need to Pay For
Many MSPs pad their services with items that provide little value:
Unnecessary Overhead:
Account managers who don't understand M365
Sales teams pushing unnecessary services
Expensive office space and marketing costs
Profit margins that benefit shareholders, not clients
Basic Services You Can Handle:
Simple user additions and deletions
Basic password resets
Routine license assignments
Simple configuration changes
The Transparency Test
Here's how to identify whether you're getting fair value:
Good Signs:
Transparent pricing with clear service descriptions
Direct communication with technical specialists
Regular reporting on activities and improvements
Willingness to train your internal team
No long-term contracts or hidden fees
Red Flags:
Vague service descriptions
Reluctance to explain pricing
Communication only through account managers
Pressure to sign long-term contracts
Additional fees for basic services
The ROI of Smart M365 Management
When you find the right M365 management partner, you should see:
Immediate Benefits:
Reduced security risk
Improved user productivity
Better compliance posture
Cost savings on licensing optimization
Long-term Value:
Proactive issue prevention
Continuous optimization
Knowledge transfer to internal team
Scalable service as you grow
Making the Switch
If you're currently overpaying for M365 management or struggling with internal resources, the transition to a specialized partnership model is straightforward:
Assessment: Evaluate your current M365 security and optimization
Planning: Develop a transition plan that minimizes disruption
Implementation: Gradually transfer specialized tasks to the new partner
Optimization: Continuously improve based on monitoring and feedback
The Bottom Line
You don't have to choose between overwhelming your IT team and overpaying MSPs. Specialized M365 partnerships provide the expertise you need at a fair price, allowing your internal team to focus on what they do best while ensuring your Microsoft 365 environment is secure, optimized, and properly managed.
Ready to explore a better approach to M365 management? Contact us for a free consultation and cost comparison analysis.
