Professional Services Automation software is most closely associated with managed services. Many MSPs use PSA software – either on-premise or cloud-based implementations – as the management layer for governing their remote IT management services such as network monitoring and maintenance, security alerting and response, and storage management. But PSA is and always was more than just an adjunct to managed services.

Think of PSA not as the automation of any particular IT function as done with remote monitoring and management (RMM) applications; rather, PSA is the automation of a professional services business. The software is the embodiment of recordkeeping, information sharing, service tracking, account management, business analytics and reporting. A good PSA tool is part CRM, part ERP and part financial accounting and billing system. Information is logically collected, processed and directed for maximum efficiency and effectiveness in services delivery.

PSA is an effective tool for managing managed services, but is equally beneficial for governing the resale of products, professional services and consulting. As the IT industry evolves to supporting hybrid and cloud-based systems, PSA will take on an important role in the monitoring, management and reporting of cloud service delivery.

Continue reading to learn more about professional services automation with Autotask.