Richard Tubb's Blog, page 8
March 5, 2025
Tubbservatory Round-Up #38 – February 2025
A new month, new opportunities! Every month, Richard Tubb searches the web for the best tools, insights, and resources to help IT Managed Service Providers (MSPs) grow and succeed.
Welcome to the Tubbservatory – a video series where we share must-read articles, top podcasts, key events, and more, all designed to help IT leaders stay ahead.
Say hello to Tubbservatory Round-Up #38, your February 2025 edition! This month’s collection is packed with valuable insights and practical tips for your MSP.
Check out the links to all these great resources at the end of the post.
We’re also tackling burnout management – something we can all relate to – and diving into e-books, podcasts, artificial intelligence, events, tools, MSFT security, and productivity.
Tubbservatory Round-Up #38: February – Week 1#1 We Asked Our Team: What’s on Your Wish List With Our Series C Funding?How would you spend $25 million dollars?
We kick off this week with the big news that AI-powered unified PSA-RMM platform SuperOps have announced a new round of funding to the tune of $25m, and in typical SuperOps tongue-in-cheek fashion, they’ve asked their team how they should spend the money — with humorous results!
#2 The Ultimate MSP Playbook: 16 Secrets for Success From 16 MSP ExpertsAnd talking of SuperOps, if you’re looking for advice on growing your MSP business, check out The Ultimate MSP Playbook: 16 Secrets for Success from 16 MSP Experts.
During the community keynote session of SuperOps SuperSummit Virtual ‘24, 16 MSP experts including Insights from 16 MSP experts including Rex Frank of Pax8, MSP Marketing expert Paul Green, MSP Growth specialist Ian Luckett, Richard himself, and others came together to share their success secrets. SuperOps have collated these valuable insights into this playbook to help MSPs tackle challenges and thrive in 2025.
#3 Nigel Moore: Most MSPs Miss 50% of Client Opportunity – The Simple Spreadsheet FixA new podcast that has caught my ear is Harvest: The MSP Sales Show, hosted by James Steel of Salesbuildr. Episode one of the show features none other than the illustrious leader of The Tech Tribe, Nigel Moore, digging into why your best opportunities lie with your existing clients, not new prospects.
This is a great listen, so go and check it out!
#4 Learn AI in 5 Minutes a DayArtificial Intelligence is such a rapidly moving subject, so my go-to source of news is The Rundown AI by Rowan Cheung.
Cheung’s AI news is delivered in a short, punchy email every day, and I highly recommend it.
#5 GTIA UK & Ireland Community MeetingMSPs, mark Thursday March 27th 2025 in your diary, as the Global Technology Industry Association (formerly CompTIA) has announced their first UK & Ireland meeting in Dublin, Ireland.
GTIA events are a great way to connect with your fellow MSPs, share ideas and network in person, so register now!
We kick off this week with news that the keynote speaker for IT Nation Connect Europe 2025 has been announced as Entrepreneur and Best-Selling Author, Daniel Priestley.
During his session at IT Nation, Priestley will be sharing the five principles that will make you highly sought-after in the MSP industry.
What’s more Sean Lardo and Dan Scott recently grabbed a sneak peek of Priestley’s keynote, so check it out!
IT Nation Connect Europe 2025 takes place on 10th-12th March 2025 in London, tickets are now available — and the Tubbservatory community can use the code NG$EEB to save an additional £25 on an All-Access Pass.
What are the characteristics of the New-Breed of Managed Service Providers?
They’re competitive, innovative, and becoming an indispensable part of their clients’ businesses. So, how are they doing it?
Well, Bradley Munday and Jason Kemsley of Uptime share their insights in a new eBook.
Understanding the difference between traditional & New-Breed MSPs is important, so check out this free resource.
#3 Jumpstart JanuaryIf you’re looking to get your MSP marketing off to a good start in 2025, and missed Wingman MSP Marketing’s Jumpstart January posts, we’d highly recommend them!
From client testimonials, to Google Business Profiles, Mark Copeman, Dave Sutton and the team at MSP Wingman have shared some genuinely valuable content here.
#4 Rethinking vCIO: Delivering Real Client Value in MSP ServicesA podcast that caught Richard’s ear was Rethinking vCIO: Delivering Real Client Value in MSP Services with Evolved Radio host Todd Kane and guest Luis Giraldo.
vCIO has the Critical Objective of creating real client value by delivering services that lead to genuine business outcomes, but many MSPs struggle to make this a reality — and this podcast can help you understand more.
#5 Top 5 Worst Valentine’s Day Tech GiftsWe’ve just had Valentine’s Day, and what better way to show your love than through tech, right?
Wrong! And to prove it, CNET have put together the top 5 worst valentines days tech gifts, including exploding tech and car trackers… sorry. This is shocking!
2025 is the year that SIEM — Security Information and Event Management — is becoming a necessary part of MSPs’ Cybersecurity toolkit, but what is SIEM and how does it help you keep your clients safe?
Well, cybersecurity specialists Huntress have produced The Straightforward Buyer’s Guide to SIEM, highlighting the importance of SIEM and the problems it solves, the risks involved, how it works, and finding the right SIEM.
Each video is bite-sized, and this is a superb resource for all MSPs.
#2 The One-and-Only Richard TubbRichard was recently interviewed by Luis Giraldo of ScalePad for his MSP Confidential series, and says it’s probably one of his favourite interviews ever.
Giraldo really did his homework, asking Richard questions on everything from Managed Services to my love of comic nooks and pro-wrestling.
This is a fun interview that we hope MSPs will enjoy.
#3 How MSPs Achieve That RARE Happy BalanceHow can MSPs achieve that RARE happy balance?
A video that caught my eye was Paul Green taking us for a walk near his home to talk about a subject that’s very important to us as business owners… how MSPs achieve a happy balance.
Take some time to brew a cuppa and watch this video. It’s worthwhile.
#4 TactiqA tool we’ve been using within Team Tubb is Tactiq, a video conferencing plug-in that transcribes and creates AI-based summaries of meetings.
Tactiq works with Zoom, Google Meets, Teams and many other platforms, and has proven the best of the meeting recorders we’ve used.
#5 ASCII Edge 2025February 26th & 27th 2025 are the dates for the ASCII Edge MSP Conference in Southern California.
Founded by Alan Weinberger, and led by President Jerry Koutavas and COO Doug Young, the ASCII group is a well-established US MSP group, and ASCII Edge 2025 is dedicated to helping members build scalable, thriving MSP businesses.
Registration is now open.
With Microsoft New Commerce Experience (or NCE) being front-of-mind for many Managed Service Providers, we kick this week off with some valuable resources MSPs can leverage.
Pax8 are offering partners their NCE Renewal Tracker, which allows MSPs to have a clear view of their client subscription lifecycles so they can renew them with ease.
Additionally, MSFT Security is a Pax8 partner-benefit that focuses on an MSPs own business security, and supports MSPs in reinforcing their tech stack.
These two resources alone are worth MSPs becoming a Pax8 partner. Definitely resources to check out.
#2 Optimise MSP Security: Safeguard Microsoft 365 with Hornetsecurity’s Multi-Tenant ExpertiseTalking of M365, Richard recently sat down with Andrien Gendre of Hornetsecurity to look at their very impressive M365 Multi-Tenant Manager.
In our video demo, Adrien shows me how this platform helps secure your Microsoft 365 environments across all clients — and we highly recommend MSPs check this platform out.
#3 Conversational Microsoft 365 BackupsTalking of Microsoft resources, you are backing up your clients’ Microsoft 365, right?
Many MSPs have clients who assume they don’t need M365 Backups, but a new eBook from Barracuda MSP helps educate clients on why they need to take steps to secure their data.
Conversational Microsoft 365 Backup eBook shows MSPs why Microsoft 365 data must be part of the backup strategy, Microsoft’s role in managing data in their service, and what kind of backup solution you should be looking for.
#4 AI’s impact on the planetNow, everybody is using Artificial Intelligence, but have you considered AI’s impact on the planet?
Jez Nolan of UK-based MSP, Ingenious, recently shared a thought-provoking video on the environmental impact of AI, and it is sobering listening.
It’s not all bad though, as Nolan suggests using AI to solve problems will undoubtedly create hidden efficiencies in almost everything we do and make.
#5 Your Team — More ProductiveIf you’re tired of typing, then a tool Richard can’t live without is TextExpander – Use Text Snippets to Improve Your Productivity.
TextExpander saves your fingers from typing through nifty automations, and he can’t recommend it enough.
Links to the Resources Mentioned in this Round-Up
From Week 1We Asked Our Team: What’s on Your Wish List With Our Series C Funding?The Ultimate MSP Playbook: 16 Secrets for Success From 16 MSP ExpertsNigel Moore: Most MSPs Miss 50% of Client Opportunity – The Simple Spreadsheet FixLearn AI in 5 Minutes a DayGTIA UK & Ireland Community MeetingMentioned in Week 2Scaling Success: A Keynote Sneak Peek With Daniel Priestley3 Characteristics of a New-Breed MSPJumpstart JanuaryRethinking vCIO: Delivering Real Client Value in MSP ServicesTop 5 Worst Valentine’s Day Tech GiftsWeek 3The Straightforward Buyer’s Guide to SIEMThe One-and-Only Richard TubbHow MSPs Achieve That RARE Happy BalanceTactiqASCII Edge 2025 And Week 4Pair Up. Power UpOptimise MSP Security: Safeguard Microsoft 365 with Hornetsecurity’s Multi-Tenant ExpertiseConversational Microsoft 365 BackupsAI’s impact on the planetYour Team — More Productive
The year is already in full swing, and there’s plenty of opportunity for MSPs to learn, grow, and stay ahead.
Got something to share? Whether it’s a useful tool, an interesting article, or a smart tip, drop it in the comments below. Let’s keep the momentum going—your insights are always welcome!
February 28, 2025
Microsoft NCE Resources from Pax8, M365 Multi-Tenant Manager Demo, and the Environmental Impact of AI
Here’s a quick story for you:
A few years ago, I realised I was spending hours each week juggling client renewals, troubleshooting backups, and typing the same responses over and over. It was exhausting. That’s when I dug deep into tools and insights that could simplify my workflows, and wow, did it make a difference!
This week, I’ve got five killer resources to help you do just that:
Pax8’s NCE Renewal Tracker: If managing client subscriptions feels like herding cats, then this tool will be your new best friend! Plus, their MSFT Security feature levels up your internal security.
2. Enhancing Security with Hornetsecurity’s M365 Multi-Tenant ManagerM365 Multi-Tenant Manager: Adrien Gendre at Hornetsecurity walked me through this powerhouse platform. It’s perfect for securing Microsoft 365 environments across clients.
Watch our demo here.
The Backup Conversation: Convincing clients to back up Microsoft 365 data can be tough. Barracuda MSP’s eBook makes it easy with clear, relatable insights.
Grab it here.
AI and the Environment: AI is everywhere, but have you thought about its footprint? Jez Nolan’s video breaks it down in a way that’ll make you rethink how you use AI.
Watch it here.
Save Time with TextExpander: I’ve saved countless hours using TextExpander. It’s like having a personal assistant for repetitive typing.
Check it out here.
Take it from me—these tools and insights can completely change how you manage your MSP business. Want more tips like these? Join my weekly email at tubb.co/nl.
Here’s to working smarter, not harder!
Microsoft NCE Resources from Pax8, M365 Multi-Tenant Manager Demo, and the Environmental Impact of AI – Insights for February 28, 2025
Here’s a quick story for you:
A few years ago, I realised I was spending hours each week juggling client renewals, troubleshooting backups, and typing the same responses over and over. It was exhausting. That’s when I dug deep into tools and insights that could simplify my workflows, and wow, did it make a difference!
This week, I’ve got five killer resources to help you do just that:
Pax8’s NCE Renewal Tracker: If managing client subscriptions feels like herding cats, then this tool will be your new best friend! Plus, their MSFT Security feature levels up your internal security.
2. Enhancing Security with Hornetsecurity’s M365 Multi-Tenant ManagerM365 Multi-Tenant Manager: Adrien Gendre at Hornetsecurity walked me through this powerhouse platform. It’s perfect for securing Microsoft 365 environments across clients.
Watch our demo here.
The Backup Conversation: Convincing clients to back up Microsoft 365 data can be tough. Barracuda MSP’s eBook makes it easy with clear, relatable insights.
Grab it here.
4. The Environmental Impact of AI by Ingenious
AI and the Environment: AI is everywhere, but have you thought about its footprint? Jez Nolan’s video breaks it down in a way that’ll make you rethink how you use AI.
Watch it here.
Save Time with TextExpander: I’ve saved countless hours using TextExpander. It’s like having a personal assistant for repetitive typing.
Check it out here.
Take it from me—these tools and insights can completely change how you manage your MSP business. Want more tips like these? Join my weekly email at tubb.co/nl.
Here’s to working smarter, not harder!
February 26, 2025
Bonusode: How to Master MSP Cash Flow and Credit Management
Nicki Kinton is the founder of Confident Cashflow, a Wiltshire-based finance business. A credit management professional, Nicki works with companies of all sizes. She specialises in helping clients hit their growth goals, tackling cash flow issues and developing better credit management strategies. Here, she shares her advice on improving your MSP cash flow.
An Interview with Nicki KintonWhy Late Payments are a Symptom not the Cause of Your MSP Cash Flow IssuesNicki explains that late payments happen for lots of different reasons and most of these are actually within the business’s control rather than their client’s control. She continues:
“Late payments are an indication that something hasn’t happened that should have earlier in the ‘order to cash’ process. That could be at any stage from receiving the enquiry right through to the expectation of getting paid.
“So maybe you didn’t ask the right questions at the beginning or do your due diligence. There’s been a breakdown somewhere in the process. So you have to look internally at the things you can control before you blame the client.”
Why You Need a Robust Credit Policy Regardless of the Size of Your MSPYour credit policies management practices are all proportionate, says Nicki, and they grow and change as the business does. “But even if you’re a tiny business, you need a policy of some sort. It could be as simple as a checklist that maps the processes.
“Having this in place takes the emotion out of it. So if you’ve got a late payment, you can refer to the policy to see what you should be doing and when. It’s less personal that way, too. You’re following company policy.
“It makes conversations about payments less awkward, too. But the most important thing is that it enables you to be consistent. So if something goes wrong, instead of panicking and not taking action, you just refer to the policy for the next step.”
How Your Mindset Towards Payment Terms can Influence Your MSP Cash FlowEveryone has their own particular feelings around money, which often stem from the way we’re brought up. Says Nicki: “Particularly in the UK, we’re brought up to believe that money is private and talking about it is crass or rude.
“And while that’s a personal mindset or belief, it leaks into our business, particularly if we’re the ones doing the payment chasing. So we feel uncomfortable talking about money, and we don’t put enough thought into credit control and management.
“We’re frightened of confrontation or we don’t want to upset a key client in our business. So we hold ourselves back from having the conversations that we really should do. Really, we should have these discussions right at the start of the working relationship.”
How MSP Owners can Avoid Frequent Late PaymentsAs Nicki said, have the conversation around your payment terms right at the start. “Don’t just present them in your contract and expect that they’ll be followed. Because the person who signs the contract might not be the person who approached you to help them.
“Whoever is responsible for finance is the person who pays the bills. And they won’t care if their payment terms don’t match yours. Maybe you want to be paid within seven days but they only pay at the end of the month. And you don’t realise that until you’re waiting for payment.
“So find out if you need a purchase order number. Clarify the process to have your invoice approved and added to the payment run. Establish what barriers there might be on you getting paid on your preferred terms. If there are any, then you have a conversation and start negotiating. But get all the information as soon as you can.”
How to Connect With Nicki KintonConfident CashflowLike Confident Cashflow on FacebookFollow Confident Cashflow on LinkedInFollow Confident Cashflow on TwitterConnect with Nicki on LinkedInni***@co***************.com” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Email NickiHow to Connect With MeSubscribe to TubbTalk RSS feedSubscribe, rate, and review TubbTalk on iTunesSubscribe and rate TubbTalk on SpotifyFollow TubbTalk on iHeartRadioFollow @tubblog on TwitterMentioned in This EpisodeNicki’s workshopBook: Thomas Erikson: Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behaviour (or, How to Understand Those Who Cannot Be Understood) (Vermilion)Personality test: DiSC ProfileBook: Dr Andy Cope: The Art of Being BrilliantYou Might Also be Interested inHow to Get a Grip on Your Small Business Finances With a Weekly Financial ReportOntrees: Personal Finance DashboardWhy MSP Owners Should Schedule a Mid-Year Business ReviewFebruary 24, 2025
TubbTalk 176: Why Now is the Time to Join GTIA and Grow the MSP Community
In this episode, Richard Tubb is joined by MJ Shoer. MJ is the Chief Community Officer of the newly-formed GTIA, previously part of the non-profit CompTIA.
A former IT director and MSP owner, MJ did a spell of consulting before joining certification and community organisation CompTIA.
An Interview with MJ ShoerHow the CompTIA Acquisition Came AboutMJ acknowledges that the acquisition has come as a surprise for a lot of people, not least because CompTIA is a nonprofit membership association. However, as he explains: “The association itself was not acquired, and it was hard to clearly communicate that at first.
“CompTIA has run for 42 years, and that became a brand. Part of it was a thriving training and certification business, and the revenue generated from that funded the nonprofit association’s work. So we’ve sold that part of the organisation, along with the brand.
“And in exchange for that, we received money to create an endowment, which will fund the operations of the association in perpetuity. The association is now the Global Technology Industry Association or GTIA for short. The other side is now a for-profit company – CompTIA Incorporated.
The Relationship Between CompTIA and GTIAThe decision for part of CompTIA to be acquired was agreed by all of the senior leadership team, and the division was amicable. However, they are now two completely separate organisations, with no formal or informal links. MJ adds:
“Traditionally, trade associations earn income one of two ways. Either they sell memberships or host events, or they offer professional training. Because CompTIA had built that so well, it was profitable. So the association has been paid for the commercial side of the business. GTIA is the community arm.
“The endowment we have will continue to grow, and it funds all of GTIA’s operations now and for the future. Part of that will be continuing our charitable giving, and we have plans to increase that. We won’t offer any kind of certification. “
The Response to the New GTIA OrganisationThe feedback on the new organisation has been tremendous, says MJ, and better than anyone could have hoped for. “Being a member of the GTIA community isn’t just about what you’re getting out of it, it’s about being part of something bigger, that gives back.
“We can really do good, and I’ve always loved the fact that this industry is that we make an impact. The work of our members impacts the global economy. And that means that we can provide opportunities to others. People are enthusiastic about the charitable aims.”
MJ shares that the new branding and logo has received a lot of love, too. “They’re seeing us everywhere, and we’re already being recognised. And that’s what we want – to empower our members, they need to see us and know that we’re here for them. And to be there for each other, too.”
Why MSPs Should Join the Organisation and Attend EventsNo matter where you are in the world, there’s a GTIA meeting for you. Some are virtual and others in-person, and they take place several times a month. If you’re an introvert, push yourself out of your comfort zone and book to attend something that looks interesting.
MJ says: “You never know who you’ll meet and how they can help you. Back when I ran my MSP, we were a small organisation in a small part of the world. On our own, we would never have been able to grow the way they did.
“But by being a CompTIA member, we had access to incredible resources, which helped us develop our skills and build our credibility. There are so many benefits to being a GTIA member. But I’d encourage you to go to a meeting, introduce yourself to one person you don’t know and see what comes from that.
“It might not happen straight away, but at some time it could lead to something significant. But you have to put yourself out there – don’t just wait for things to happen to you. And always look for ways to help others.”
The Future Plans for GTIAThere’s a balancing act, says MJ, between having a lot of members who are less engaged, or a smaller number of members who are highly engaged. “So, I’d love to solve for that and find a happy medium. But to continue to grow at the same time.
“We want to focus on things that matter the most to our members and will provide them with the most value. And to do that, we ask them what they want. We’re a member-led organisation and they’re what matters. We start local groups in regions where they ask us to be.
“But we don’t just set up a group. We have a manager hired and in place, so that we can build engagement quicker and better in each new community. And then we empower them to give back to the local area.
“Alongside that, we have spotlight awards, outstanding member recognition and so on. We champion those who are innovating, advancing women, showing expertise and prioritising DEI. We want to stay true to our core principles and those of our members.”
Industry Changes MSPs Should Pay Attention toAI is one of the big trends in the MSP industry right now, says MJ. “But the challenge is to not get caught up in the hype cycle. Instead, focus on the actual practical applications of AI. At GTAI, we want to shine a light on practical solutions that members are already benefiting from.
“Because it’s not just about throwing AI at something. It’s about, asking the most important question – why? Why are getting involved in AI, how will it benefit your business and your customers? “We know that a similar thing has already happened with cybersecurity, and that continues to be important for MSPs.
“And finally, this is an aging industry. So it’s important to support and encourage the younger generation. We need to get them engaged and rising up into leadership positions. A key focus is having a robust talent pipeline to ensure the right people are in charge.”
How to Connect With MJ ShoerGTIAmj******@gt**.org” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Email MJConnect with MJ on LinkedInFollow GTIA on LinkedInHow to Connect With MeSubscribe to TubbTalk RSS feedSubscribe, rate, and review TubbTalk on iTunesSubscribe and rate TubbTalk on SpotifyFollow TubbTalk on iHeartRadioFollow @tubblog on TwitterMentioned in This InterviewCompTIAPodcast: Why CompTIA are the MSP Industry’s Best-Kept SecretPodcast: Best-Kept Secret to Global Leader: The Remarkable Evolution of CompTIAThe GTIA online suggestion boxGTIA EventsYou Might Also be Interested inCompTIA ChannelCon 2024: Key Takeaways on MSP GrowthThe Fantastic Four of MSP Events for New-Breed MSPsWhy You Should Make Time for Networking as a Busy MSP OwnerTubbTalk 176: Why Now is the Time to Join GTIA and Grow its MSP Community
In this episode, Richard Tubb is joined by MJ Shoer. MJ is the Chief Community Officer of the newly-formed GTIA, previously part of the non-profit CompTIA.
A former IT director and MSP owner, MJ did a spell of consulting before joining certification and community organisation CompTIA.
An Interview with MJ ShoerHow the CompTIA Acquisition Came AboutMJ acknowledges that the acquisition has come as a surprise for a lot of people, not least because CompTIA is a nonprofit membership association. However, as he explains: “The association itself was not acquired, and it was hard to clearly communicate that at first.
“CompTIA has run for 42 years, and that became a brand. Part of it was a thriving training and certification business, and the revenue generated from that funded the nonprofit association’s work. So we’ve sold that part of the organisation, along with the brand.
“And in exchange for that, we received money to create an endowment, which will fund the operations of the association in perpetuity. The association is now the Global Technology Industry Association or GTIA for short. The other side is now a for-profit company – CompTIA Incorporated.
The Relationship Between CompTIA and GTIAThe decision for part of CompTIA to be acquired was agreed by all of the senior leadership team, and the division was amicable. However, they are now two completely separate organisations, with no formal or informal links. MJ adds:
“Traditionally, trade associations earn income one of two ways. Either they sell memberships or host events, or they offer professional training. Because CompTIA had built that so well, it was profitable. So the association has been paid for the commercial side of the business. GTIA is the community arm.
“The endowment we have will continue to grow, and it funds all of GTIA’s operations now and for the future. Part of that will be continuing our charitable giving, and we have plans to increase that. We won’t offer any kind of certification. “
The Response to the New GTIA OrganisationThe feedback on the new organisation has been tremendous, says MJ, and better than anyone could have hoped for. “Being a member of the GTIA community isn’t just about what you’re getting out of it, it’s about being part of something bigger, that gives back.
“We can really do good, and I’ve always loved the fact that this industry is that we make an impact. The work of our members impacts the global economy. And that means that we can provide opportunities to others. People are enthusiastic about the charitable aims.”
MJ shares that the new branding and logo has received a lot of love, too. “They’re seeing us everywhere, and we’re already being recognised. And that’s what we want – to empower our members, they need to see us and know that we’re here for them. And to be there for each other, too.”
Why MSPs Should Join the Organisation and Attend EventsNo matter where you are in the world, there’s a GTIA meeting for you. Some are virtual and others in-person, and they take place several times a month. If you’re an introvert, push yourself out of your comfort zone and book to attend something that looks interesting.
MJ says: “You never know who you’ll meet and how they can help you. Back when I ran my MSP, we were a small organisation in a small part of the world. On our own, we would never have been able to grow the way they did.
“But by being a CompTIA member, we had access to incredible resources, which helped us develop our skills and build our credibility. There are so many benefits to being a GTIA member. But I’d encourage you to go to a meeting, introduce yourself to one person you don’t know and see what comes from that.
“It might not happen straight away, but at some time it could lead to something significant. But you have to put yourself out there – don’t just wait for things to happen to you. And always look for ways to help others.”
The Future Plans for GTIAThere’s a balancing act, says MJ, between having a lot of members who are less engaged, or a smaller number of members who are highly engaged. “So, I’d love to solve for that and find a happy medium. But to continue to grow at the same time.
“We want to focus on things that matter the most to our members and will provide them with the most value. And to do that, we ask them what they want. We’re a member-led organisation and they’re what matters. We start local groups in regions where they ask us to be.
“But we don’t just set up a group. We have a manager hired and in place, so that we can build engagement quicker and better in each new community. And then we empower them to give back to the local area.
“Alongside that, we have spotlight awards, outstanding member recognition and so on. We champion those who are innovating, advancing women, showing expertise and prioritising DEI. We want to stay true to our core principles and those of our members.”
Industry Changes MSPs Should Pay Attention toAI is one of the big trends in the MSP industry right now, says MJ. “But the challenge is to not get caught up in the hype cycle. Instead, focus on the actual practical applications of AI. At GTAI, we want to shine a light on practical solutions that members are already benefiting from.
“Because it’s not just about throwing AI at something. It’s about, asking the most important question – why? Why are getting involved in AI, how will it benefit your business and your customers? “We know that a similar thing has already happened with cybersecurity, and that continues to be important for MSPs.
“And finally, this is an aging industry. So it’s important to support and encourage the younger generation. We need to get them engaged and rising up into leadership positions. A key focus is having a robust talent pipeline to ensure the right people are in charge.”
How to Connect With MJ ShoerGTIAmj******@gt**.org” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Email MJConnect with MJ on LinkedInFollow GTIA on LinkedInHow to Connect With MeSubscribe to TubbTalk RSS feedSubscribe, rate, and review TubbTalk on iTunesSubscribe and rate TubbTalk on SpotifyFollow TubbTalk on iHeartRadioFollow @tubblog on TwitterMentioned in This InterviewCompTIAPodcast: Why CompTIA are the MSP Industry’s Best-Kept SecretPodcast: Best-Kept Secret to Global Leader: The Remarkable Evolution of CompTIAThe GTIA online suggestion boxGTIA EventsYou Might Also be Interested inCompTIA ChannelCon 2024: Key Takeaways on MSP GrowthThe Fantastic Four of MSP Events for New-Breed MSPsWhy You Should Make Time for Networking as a Busy MSP OwnerFebruary 21, 2025
The Straightforward SIEM Buyer’s Guide, MSP Confidential with Luis Giraldo & Richard Tubb, and Achieving a Happy Balance
Are you ready to elevate your MSP game? Let’s explore five handpicked resources that will sharpen your skills, expand your knowledge, and keep you ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving IT landscape.
First up, Huntress’s “Straightforward Buyer’s Guide to SIEM” is a must-read for 2025. SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) is quickly becoming a non-negotiable in MSP cybersecurity strategies.
But what exactly does it do? This guide breaks down SIEM’s role, the risks it mitigates, and how to choose the right solution. With concise, bite-sized videos, it’s an actionable tool for any MSP.
Access the guide here.
Next, my interview with Luis Giraldo of ScalePad for his MSP Confidential series dives into both business and personal passions. From managed services insights to my love for comic books, this chat offers something for every MSP professional.
Watch it here.
Paul Green’s video on achieving balance in business is a refreshing perspective on work-life harmony. He shares practical tips while taking a walk near his home. Take 10 minutes, grab a coffee, and give it a watch.
Start here.
Tactiq is a tool we’re loving at Team Tubb. This AI-powered meeting transcription plug-in works seamlessly with Zoom, Google Meet, and Teams, offering accurate summaries to save you time. It’s a productivity booster worth exploring.
Learn more.
Finally, mark your calendar for the ASCII Edge MSP Conference in Costa Mesa, California, on February 26-27, 2025. This premier event is an excellent opportunity to connect with industry leaders and grow your business.
Secure your spot.
There you have it – your 5-a-week for the MSP industry. If you enjoyed this roundup, you’ll love my weekly MSP Insights email. Join thousands of other MSPs and sign up at tubb.co/nl.
See you next week!
P.S. Don’t forget to support your local businesses – they’re the heart of our communities, and your patronage can make all the difference in their growth and resilience.
The Straightforward SIEM Buyer’s Guide, MSP Confidential with Luis Giraldo & Richard Tubb, and Achieving a Happy Balance – Insights for February 21, 2025
Are you ready to elevate your MSP game? Let’s explore five handpicked resources that will sharpen your skills, expand your knowledge, and keep you ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving IT landscape.
First up, Huntress’s “Straightforward Buyer’s Guide to SIEM” is a must-read for 2025. SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) is quickly becoming a non-negotiable in MSP cybersecurity strategies.
But what exactly does it do? This guide breaks down SIEM’s role, the risks it mitigates, and how to choose the right solution. With concise, bite-sized videos, it’s an actionable tool for any MSP.
Access the guide here.
Next, my interview with Luis Giraldo of ScalePad for his MSP Confidential series dives into both business and personal passions. From managed services insights to my love for comic books, this chat offers something for every MSP professional.
Watch it here.
Paul Green’s video on achieving balance in business is a refreshing perspective on work-life harmony. He shares practical tips while taking a walk near his home. Take 10 minutes, grab a coffee, and give it a watch.
Start here.Tubbservatory: The 21 February 2025 Weekly Video
4. Tactiq: AI Meeting Transcripts for Google Meet, Zoom, and Teams
Tactiq is a tool we’re loving at Team Tubb. This AI-powered meeting transcription plug-in works seamlessly with Zoom, Google Meet, and Teams, offering accurate summaries to save you time. It’s a productivity booster worth exploring.
Learn more.5. ASCII Edge MSP Conference – Costa Mesa, California, USA
Finally, mark your calendar for the ASCII Edge MSP Conference in Costa Mesa, California, on February 26-27, 2025. This premier event is an excellent opportunity to connect with industry leaders and grow your business.
Secure your spot.
There you have it – your 5-a-week for the MSP industry. If you enjoyed this roundup, you’ll love my weekly MSP Insights email. Join thousands of other MSPs and sign up at tubb.co/nl.
See you next week!
P.S. Don’t forget to support your local businesses – they’re the heart of our communities, and your patronage can make all the difference in their growth and resilience.
February 18, 2025
The Best, Must-Attend European MSS Events For MSPs
Is growing your network part of your 2025 plan? One of the best ways to do this is by attending industry conferences. And the MSS events in Europe that are coming up this year are the ideal place do do that!
What are MSS Events?MSS, or Managed Services Summit, is an established, respected series of events aimed at senior decision-makers based in the UK or Europe. Along with talks, panel sessions and networking, MSS events are designed to facilitate conversations between sponsors and peers.
As the organisers say themselves: “Delegates can discuss and debate all of the core business issues impacting the managed services’ industry. This is a ‘must-attend occasion for any senior decision maker operating within the ICT channel.”
They’re taking place in four locations in 2025, with two in the UK, so they’re accessible for most European MSPs.
Each one will feature topic-specific breakout sessions, on things like sales, tech and tools and business growth; networking galore; industry insights; keynotes from leading experts; collaboration opportunities.
Who Attends MSS Events?The events are aimed at senior leaders. Typical delegates include directors and senior managers of:
MSPsMSSPsVARsIT resellersSystems integratorsPlus, there are sponsors, speakers and exhibitors from a whole range of organisations:
Hardware/software vendorsCloud service providersDistributorsHosting providersCloud marketplace: Pax8IT & security management: KaseyaEmail security software: IronscalesCybersecurity partner: HuntressMSP automation: RewstPSA-RMM tool: SuperOps
What do you think? Will you be getting a ticket for one or more of the European MSS events? Let us know in the comments!
February 14, 2025
Great News for MSPs After the CompTIA Acquisition
Like many of us, you might have been surprised to see the news at the end of 2024 of a CompTIA acquisition. The not-for-profit global organisation provides training, certification and networking opportunities for managed service providers (MSPs) and IT professionals.
But while it was unexpected to its members, there are a lot of positives to come out of this. So what does it mean for MSPs?
First of all, who’s behind the acquisition of CompTIA? As Channel E2E reported, two private equity firms have been involved: HIG Capital and Thoma Bravo.
The intention is to split the organisation into a for-profit business unit and a separate non-profit trade association, with the changes starting in 2025.
President and CEO, Todd Thibodeux, gave a statement to explain why this is good news for members:
“The acquisition will benefit the company by providing more money for the soon-to-be-separate side of the trade association to better serve its members with IT resources and assistance to grow their businesses.”
But many in the industry asked ‘why now?’ when CompTIA has been going for over 40 years. One IT analyst suggested that it was a way to make the certification side of the organisation more profitable. However, he added:
“Fees for CompTIA services may increase, but the change of ownership is probably not significant.”
CompTIA’s press office also made a statement back in December 2024, reminding readers that it’s the “largest vendor-neutral credentialling programme for technology workers, awarding 3.5m certifications to date.”
The changes, which are being rolled out now (early 2025), will see CompTIA will operate as a for-profit company under H.I.G. and Thoma Bravo’s ownership. Its existing membership-based, nonprofit organisation will be separated from CompTIA and continue its mission of service to the IT industry.
Thibodeaux added:
“We are thrilled to be joining forces with two leading, experienced investors in the technology space, whose expertise and resources will allow us to expand our impact on the global IT industry.
“We will be well-positioned to accelerate and expand the rollout of products and services to train the highly skilled workers of the future.”
Are you a CompTIA member? What do you think of this news? Let us know in the comments!
