Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

Intel has launched its Core Ultra Series 3 central processing units, utilizing its new 18A process technology, which aims to enhance performance and efficiency across various applications, including gaming and professional workloads. This development is part of Intel's strategy to regain competitiveness in the CPU market, which has faced increasing pressure from rivals. The new processors promise improved performance per watt compared to previous generations, with further specifications expected soon. This advancement in chip technology is significant for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) as it enables the feasibility of edge AI applications, which require careful consideration of workload clarity and governance.Lenovo introduced Cura, an AI assistant designed to operate seamlessly across its computers and Motorola smartphones, emphasizing on-device processing and user privacy. This system-level AI aims to adapt to user habits over time, assisting with tasks such as email drafting and meeting summarization. However, the episode highlights a concerning trend where many users do not fully utilize existing tools, as evidenced by Microsoft’s Copilot user statistics. The discussion underscores the importance of governance in AI deployment, as successful enterprise AI implementations, like those from Siemens, demonstrate that explicit authority and responsibility are crucial for effective outcomes.The episode also addresses the ongoing hype surrounding robotics and automation, noting that while advancements are being made, the reality remains that specialized robots are more practical than general-purpose ones. Companies are focusing on single-purpose robots, which contrasts with the expectation of multifunctional robots. The discussion emphasizes that automation in IT should follow a similar path, advocating for narrow automations with explicit authority to avoid misunderstandings and failures that could lead to accountability issues for MSPs.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the key takeaway is the necessity of redefining governance and responsibility in the face of advancing automation and AI technologies. As systems of action become more prevalent, the shift from traditional dashboards to autonomous decision-making systems requires MSPs to update their contracts and governance models accordingly. The opportunity lies not in simply adopting new technologies but in understanding where automation should be limited and ensuring that accountability is clearly defined to mitigate risks associated with automated systems. Three things to know today 00:00 Intel, Lenovo, and Siemens Signal AI Acceleration, Not Automatic Value, for IT Services06:02 CES 2026 Reveals Why Specialized Robotics and Disciplined Automation Deliver ROI Faster Than General AI09:34 Agentic AI, Action-First Platforms, and the End of Forgiving IT Systems Put New Accountability on MSPs This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:   💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Google has introduced an AI-powered inbox view for Gmail, designed to enhance user experience by transforming the traditional email interface into a personalized platform that includes to-do items and topic summaries. This feature, currently available to trusted testers in the U.S. for consumer Gmail accounts, aims to help users manage their emails more effectively. However, concerns have been raised about the potential for users to feel overwhelmed by excessive to-do suggestions, and Google has stated that users can opt out of these AI features. The company also reassured users that their Gmail content is not utilized for training AI models.OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Health, a tool that allows users to ask health-related questions in a secure environment while connecting their medical records and wellness apps. Although the tool is not intended for diagnosis or treatment, it raises significant concerns regarding safety and privacy, particularly in sensitive areas like mental health. OpenAI has collaborated with over 260 physicians to refine the model, but the lack of full compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) has led to calls for caution, especially for users with health anxiety. The implications of these tools extend beyond user convenience, as they redefine the nature of work and authority in digital environments.The episode also discusses the growing backlash against AI infrastructure, particularly in local communities where data centers are being proposed. Reports indicate that opposition is rising across the political spectrum, with residents voicing concerns about the environmental and economic impacts of these developments. Additionally, polling data shows that 80% of American adults believe the government should regulate AI, reflecting a significant political opportunity for the Democratic Party. This sentiment is prompting leaders to adopt more vocal stances against AI, as many voters feel threatened by its rapid advancement.For Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT service leaders, these developments underscore the importance of understanding the evolving regulatory landscape surrounding AI technologies. As states implement new laws addressing AI safety and consumer rights, MSPs must navigate the complexities of compliance and governance. The episode highlights the necessity for providers to establish clear boundaries regarding AI's influence in client environments, ensuring accountability and minimizing liability risks. As AI continues to integrate into various aspects of technology, the need for informed decision-making and proactive engagement with regulatory changes becomes increasingly critical. Four things to know today 00:00 Google and OpenAI Recast AI as an Authority Layer Over Email and Health Data05:03 From Data Centers to Regulation, AI Expansion Encounters Political and Community Limits08:18 AI, Privacy, and Liability Converge as States Fill the Regulatory Vacuum Left by Washington14:07 Dell Says Consumers Aren’t Buying PCs for AI Features, Despite NPU Push This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:   💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Microsoft has announced significant changes to its Teams platform, set to take effect on January 12, 2026. The platform will automatically enhance messaging security by blocking risky files and scanning shared links for potential phishing threats. This proactive measure aims to protect organizations, particularly smaller ones without dedicated security teams, from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. IT administrators will have the opportunity to review and adjust these settings prior to implementation, ensuring a smoother transition to the new security measures.In addition to the Teams update, Microsoft has decided to retract its previously announced limit on bulk email recipients for Exchange Online, following customer feedback indicating that such restrictions would create operational challenges. The company will maintain existing limits while seeking less disruptive solutions to enhance email security. Furthermore, Microsoft has acquired the startup Osmos to bolster its Microsoft Fabric platform with autonomous data engineering capabilities, aiming to automate data preparation and reduce the manual workload for IT teams.The episode also highlights the rapid growth of Ninja One, which reported a 70% year-over-year increase in annual recurring revenue, surpassing $500 million. This growth positions Ninja One as a strong competitor in the remote monitoring and management market, particularly as managed service providers (MSPs) seek to consolidate tools to improve operational efficiency. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accountability and risk management as MSPs navigate the complexities of tool consolidation and automation.For MSPs and IT service leaders, these developments underscore the need for clear communication and governance in the face of increasing automation and vendor-driven changes. As Microsoft centralizes control over security and data management, MSPs must adapt by managing client expectations and pricing for the support burden that comes with these automated solutions. The evolving landscape necessitates a proactive approach to risk management, ensuring that MSPs are prepared to address client concerns and operational challenges effectively. Four things to know today 00:00 CompTIA Signals Confidence for 2026 as NinjaOne’s Growth Highlights MSP Push to Simplify Operations05:12 Microsoft Tightens Defaults and Expands Automation Across Teams, Exchange, and Fabric09:22 Dell Reverses Course on Laptop Branding, Reintroducing XPS to Reduce Confusion and Reset Its AI PC Strategy11:53 Artificial Analysis Overhauls AI Benchmarks to Focus on Real-World Work, Lowering Scores and Raising Enterprise Expectations This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://timezest.com/mspradio/https://scalepad.com/dave/  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Artificial intelligence adoption is accelerating without formal ownership as employees, customers, and patients integrate AI tools into daily decisions. Surveys from Gallup show 45% of U.S. employees use AI at work at least occasionally, while research cited by OpenAI indicates roughly 60% of American adults recently used AI for health-related questions. Zoho and Arion Research report that 41% of organizations have strengthened privacy measures after adopting AI, reflecting growing concern about data exposure and accountability. For MSPs, the shift places liability closer to the systems being used rather than the vendors supplying them.Trust in digital media is also eroding as AI-generated content becomes harder to distinguish from authentic material. Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri states that assuming photos or videos reflect real events is no longer reliable and suggests verification at the point of capture rather than labeling generated content. This approach reframes trust as a technical system rather than a social assumption. For IT providers, the issue extends beyond social platforms to security footage, compliance evidence, training data, and any asset where authenticity must be demonstrated.At the same time, automation and AI training are converging on the same constraint: expert judgment. HireArt’s 2025 AI Trainer Compensation Report shows subject-matter experts earning $60 to more than $180 per hour, compared with under $20 for generalist data labelers, reflecting the cost of errors in regulated or technical fields. Kaseya’s 2025 EMEA MSP Benchmark Report finds that while nearly 75% of MSPs expect revenue growth, 45% face staffing and skills shortages, increasing reliance on automation built on accurate data and curated exceptions.Major vendors are embedding judgment directly into platforms. ServiceNow’s planned $7.75 billion acquisition of Armis expands asset classification and risk scoring within workflows. Freshworks’ acquisition of FireHydrant integrates AI-driven incident management into ITSM. Google Cloud’s revamped Partner Network shifts incentives toward outcome-based tiers beginning in 2026. For MSPs and IT service leaders, these moves concentrate responsibility around interpretation, governance, and accountability, even as tools increasingly define risk and success.Four things to know today00:00 Surveys Show AI Adoption Is Happening Without Ownership as Employees, Customers, and Patients Lead Usage04:50 Instagram’s CEO Says Trust Is No Longer Assumed as AI Forces Proof-of-Reality Models07:22 AI and MSP Automation Are Converging on the Same Bottleneck: Expert Judgment09:52 Vendors Shift From Tools to Judgement as ServiceNow, Freshworks, and Google Cloud Embed Risk, Incidents, and Outcomes This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://scalepad.com/dave/  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The U.S. economy demonstrated robust growth in the third quarter of 2025, with a gross domestic product (GDP) increase of 4.3%, according to the Commerce Department. This growth occurred despite consumer concerns and uncertainties related to tariffs, with military spending and corporate profits contributing significantly. However, the technology sector experienced substantial layoffs, with 1.1 million jobs cut in 2025, of which only 55,000 were attributed to artificial intelligence (AI). The majority of job losses stemmed from corporate restructuring and economic conditions rather than direct displacement by AI, leading to hiring freezes, particularly for entry-level positions.Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are currently facing challenges in attracting talent, with over 70% reporting difficulties in finding qualified candidates due to competition from larger firms. The National Federation of Independent Business noted that nearly half of all small businesses are struggling to fill open positions, which is stalling growth and reducing productivity. Despite a slight increase in small business optimism, driven by expectations of higher sales, many owners cite labor quality as their top concern. Additionally, 64% of SMBs are experiencing supply chain disruptions, complicating their operations.The episode also discusses the ongoing chip and memory shortages, which are expected to persist into 2027, leading to rising prices for consumer electronics. Major memory manufacturers are prioritizing supply for AI companies, impacting pricing across various sectors. Furthermore, the shift towards outcome-based pricing models in software is highlighted, where companies may pay based on actual results delivered, potentially complicating the relationship between service providers and clients if expectations are not clearly defined.For Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT service leaders, these developments underscore the importance of clarity and realistic expectations in service delivery. As operational fragility becomes more pronounced amid rising costs and labor shortages, MSPs must reframe their roles from implementers to risk managers. This shift is crucial to avoid margin erosion and contract disputes, ensuring that they are not unduly burdened by decisions made outside their control. The evolving economic landscape necessitates a proactive approach to pricing and service design, particularly as automation and AI continue to reshape the industry. Four things to know today 00:00 Strong GDP Growth, Persistent Layoffs, and Weak AI Returns Expose Hidden Risk for SMB Operations07:04 AI Is Driving Hardware Shortages, Cloud Growth, and Outcome-Based Pricing—Raising Cost Risk for MSPs11:10 MSP Expense Volatility, AI-Driven Service Shifts, and Labor Shortages Are Colliding on Pricing Strategy15:04-- MSP Radio Expands Beyond News With Acquisition of Two MSP Education Brands This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are encouraged to shift their focus from traditional infrastructure management to becoming Managed Intelligence Providers (MIPs), emphasizing the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into their service offerings. Chance Weaver, VP of AI Adoption at PAX 8, highlights the necessity for MSPs to engage in deeper conversations with clients about their business processes rather than merely discussing technology tools. This approach aims to identify specific business challenges that can be addressed through tailored technological solutions, including AI, automation, and business intelligence.Weaver notes that while many MSPs have historically excelled in maintaining infrastructure, they often lack a comprehensive understanding of their clients' workflows and business needs. The transition to MIPs involves not only understanding business processes but also ensuring data readiness, which is critical for effective AI implementation. Instead of undertaking extensive data cleanup projects upfront, MSPs should focus on the data relevant to specific business processes, thereby demonstrating immediate ROI and building trust with clients.The episode also discusses the importance of outcome-driven services and the potential for MSPs to monetize AI solutions effectively. Weaver shares insights from his interviews with over 650 partners in the PAX 8 ecosystem, revealing that only a small percentage are currently generating revenue from AI-related services. Successful partners are leveraging their existing relationships and expertise to create value for clients by aligning pricing models with measurable outcomes, thus facilitating a smoother transition to AI adoption.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the key takeaway is the urgency to start conversations about AI with clients, even if they are not yet fully equipped to implement these solutions. By positioning themselves as knowledgeable partners in the AI transformation journey, MSPs can capitalize on emerging opportunities and enhance their service offerings. The discussion emphasizes that while some providers may choose to adopt a fast-follower strategy, those who proactively engage with clients about AI will likely gain a competitive advantage in the evolving market landscape.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The conversation centers on the evolving role of automation in Managed Service Providers (MSPs), particularly the implementation of human-in-the-loop AI systems. Mathieu Tougas, CEO of Mizo Technologies, emphasizes that while automation can significantly enhance efficiency—reporting a 26% increase in technician capacity and a 30% reduction in escalations—maintaining human oversight is crucial for ensuring service quality. This approach allows technicians to delegate low-value tasks to AI agents while focusing on higher-value customer interactions, thereby preserving the essential human element in service delivery.Tougas outlines the methodology behind these efficiency gains, which involves analyzing ticket resolution times before and after deploying Mizo's solutions. The data indicates that technicians can handle more tickets in less time, which can lead to reduced staffing needs without compromising service quality. He also addresses common misconceptions among MSPs regarding AI, particularly the fear of losing control over service quality when delegating tasks to automated systems. Instead, he argues that AI should be viewed as a tool to enhance technician capabilities rather than replace them.The discussion also touches on the importance of integrating AI tools into existing workflows without causing disruption. Mizo Technologies employs a two-week fine-tuning period to adapt its systems to the specific processes of each MSP, ensuring a smoother transition and minimizing the need for extensive retraining. This gradual approach allows organizations to build trust in the AI systems while optimizing their service desk operations.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the key takeaway is the necessity of balancing automation with human oversight to maintain service quality. As the industry moves towards greater automation, understanding the right contexts for AI deployment and ensuring robust processes are in place will be essential for maximizing efficiency and customer satisfaction. Embracing AI thoughtfully can lead to significant operational improvements while still addressing the critical need for human interaction in service delivery.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Robbie Bach, former president of Microsoft's Entertainment and Devices Division, discusses his transition from technology executive to author of political techno-thrillers, focusing on his latest book, The Blockchain Syndicate. The narrative explores themes of digital identity, misinformation, and the vulnerabilities of modern institutions, emphasizing that technology itself is neutral; it can be used for both beneficial and harmful purposes. Bach highlights the character of Tamika Smith, a military veteran, as a lens through which to examine leadership in a complex landscape of technology and public trust.Bach elaborates on the psychological and technical aspects of his story, particularly the implications of digital identity and authenticity. He notes that the plot involves a blackmail scenario linked to a character presumed dead, raising questions about the authenticity of digital communications. This reflects broader concerns about cybersecurity, where vulnerabilities are often exploited rather than created anew. Bach emphasizes the importance of grounding his narrative in real-world technology and experiences, blending factual research with creative storytelling.The conversation also touches on the governance of technology, critiquing current regulatory approaches that tend to be reactive rather than proactive. Bach argues that effective governance requires forward-thinking leadership capable of anticipating future challenges, particularly in areas like AI and blockchain. He stresses the need for businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises, to engage with these issues beyond mere compliance, advocating for a broader sense of responsibility that includes stakeholder value.For Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT service leaders, Bach's insights underscore the critical role they play in navigating the complexities of technology governance and cybersecurity. By understanding the vulnerabilities inherent in digital systems and advocating for responsible practices, MSPs can better support their clients in mitigating risks associated with misinformation and identity fraud. The episode serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical considerations in technology deployment and the need for proactive engagement in shaping a secure digital future.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Laith Palhawan, CEO and founder of OrangeCrew, has successfully transitioned his managed IT services company into the public sector by becoming GSA certified, allowing him to provide IT services to government agencies. This shift has required a deep understanding of compliance and security requirements that differ significantly from those in the private sector. In the public sector, clients expect adherence to strict standards and predefined solutions, which contrasts with the more flexible and responsive approach typically found in private business engagements.Pahlawan's experience highlights the challenges of profitability in the managed services landscape, particularly when working with government contracts that often yield lower margins of 10-15%. He emphasizes the importance of strategic partnerships and effective business analysis to maintain sustainable margins. By utilizing tools like Power BI and Kaseya, OrangeCrew can track time and resources spent on each client, allowing for informed decisions about which clients to prioritize and which to decline based on profitability and demand.The episode also delves into OrangeCrew's innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance internal operations and client services. Pahlawan has developed a centralized database that integrates various data sources, enabling the use of AI to analyze client interactions and identify potential issues proactively. This system not only improves operational efficiency but also positions OrangeCrew as a forward-thinking MSP capable of offering advanced solutions to clients, particularly in the realm of AI.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the insights shared by Pahlawan underscore the necessity of adapting to evolving client needs, particularly regarding compliance and AI integration. As businesses increasingly rely on AI for operational efficiency, MSPs must enhance their understanding of data management and automation to remain competitive. The conversation serves as a reminder that embracing new technologies and strategic partnerships can lead to sustainable growth and improved service delivery in a challenging market.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The episode reviews the outcomes of predictions made for 2025, highlighting the evolving role of automation and AI in Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Key findings indicate that while generative AI has improved data accessibility, it has not fully resolved existing reporting issues related to data quality and governance. Additionally, the anticipated widespread adoption of autonomous IT systems among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) has not materialized, as many still rely on traditional remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools. The episode emphasizes that AI governance and advisory services have become central to modern MSP offerings.Further analysis reveals that while AI-driven legal services gained traction, MSPs have not widely adopted these as packaged offerings. Instead, they have focused on AI compliance and regulatory advisory services. The discussion also touches on the mixed results of fraud prevention becoming a standard service, with significant growth in some sectors but uneven adoption across the board. The episode concludes with a scorecard of predictions, noting a few clear successes in AI governance and readiness consulting, while highlighting a notable miss regarding decentralized MSP models.Looking ahead to 2026, the episode presents several predictions that reflect the increasing importance of automation in IT services. It suggests that MSPs whose revenue models still depend heavily on human labor will face pressure to adapt, as automation becomes the primary driver of service scalability. The discussion also raises concerns about accountability in automation, predicting that individuals may be held responsible for failures in automated systems, emphasizing the need for robust governance frameworks.The implications for MSPs and IT service leaders are significant. As automation becomes the production system for IT services, providers must focus on governance, risk management, and advisory roles to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape. The episode underscores the necessity for MSPs to evolve their service offerings and business models to align with these trends, ensuring they remain relevant and capable of delivering value in an increasingly automated environment.  💼 All Our SponsorsSupport the vendors who support the show:👉 https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ 🚀 Join Business of Tech PlusGet exclusive access to investigative reports, vendor analysis, leadership briefings, and more.👉 https://businessof.tech/plus 🎧 Subscribe to the Business of TechWant the show on your favorite podcast app or prefer the written versions of each story?📲 https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe 📰 Story Links & SourcesLooking for the links from today’s stories?Every episode script — with full source links — is posted at:🌐 https://www.businessof.tech 🎙 Want to Be a Guest?Pitch your story or appear on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights:💬 https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech 🔗 Follow Business of Tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradioBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.techInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradioTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.