2020 MSP 501 Survey FAQs

Do you have what it takes to rank among the top 501 managed service providers in the world? Every year, MSPs from around the globe throw their hats in the ring to see how they stack up against their peers in the Channel Futures MSP 501, the IT channel’s first, largest and most comprehensive survey and ranking of managed service providers (MSPs) worldwide.

Now in its 13th year, the MSP 501 has evolved from a ranking of a handful of partners to an insightful, data-rich full report that does more than name the top MSPs in the world; it shows you how they got there. 2020 is poised to be our most captivating year yet. We’re building on 2019’s record-breaking number of applicants, introducing brand-new advanced methodologies. We look forward to making the 3rd Annual MSP 501 Awards and Gala at Channel Partners Evolution even more dynamic than years past.

Will you make the cut to become a 501er? There’s only one way to find out. Check out our FAQs below, then stand up and be counted in the 2020 Channel Futures MSP 501 survey and rankings!

It’s the goal of the Channel Futures MSP 501 team to make applying as easy as possible. If you have questions about the survey, check out the FAQ below. If you don’t see an answer, shoot us an email at [email protected], and we’d be happy to help.

Where do I access the survey?

To apply for the 2020 MSP 501, click here.

Can I see the survey application before beginning the submission process?

To download a PDF of the 2020 MSP 501 survey, please click here. 

Can I save my progress and return to finish later?

The survey platform defaults to “save.” As long as the applicant has cookies enabled and is continuing the application on the same device, the user can come back at a later time to complete the survey/form.

Can I edit my answers?

Applicants can back up in the survey and adjust data as needed before clicking on the Submit button. Once an application is submitted, it is considered final.

Will I receive a copy of my answers?

Upon submittal, applicants who provide their email address when prompted will receive a confirmation email that contains a PDF copy of their responses. We highly suggest you save this PDF for your records.

What do you need for revenue verification?

Download the MSP 501 revenue verification form here or within the survey. It must be completed with the revenue numbers you have self-reported and signed by a certified financial professional or member of your company’s executive team. You may not submit an application for the 2020 MSP 501 without first uploading the verification document.

Will my company’s financial information be disclosed?

Channel Futures/Channel Partners will not disclose specific annual revenue information such as revenue dollars; however, we reserve the right to publish company growth rates based on the private revenue data you submit.

What if I have technical difficulties?

For help troubleshooting your application, please email [email protected] and our team will get back to you shortly. For help with site registration, please email [email protected].

When does the survey close?

The 2020 MSP 501 will close for applications at 11:59 p.m. EDT on …

… Friday, May 31.

When will the winners be announced?

501 winners will be announced in June, 2020 – exact date TBD – in our reveal webcast and on the site. Special award winners will be announced in July. All will be honored at our annual MSP 501 Awards Gala held every year at Channel Partners Evolution in the fall.

How do you evaluate applications to arrive at the rankings?

We use a proprietary algorithm that weights different revenue streams according to how representative they are of modern business models and forward-thinking managed services strategies.

Can I apply if my company is outside of the traditional managed services business model?

In response to demand from telecom agents, resellers, digital agencies and other non-MSP channel partners that are spinning up managed services practices, we are excited to this year launch the NextGen 101, an MSP 501 list. The NextGen 101 will recognize outstanding partners from outside of the traditional managed-service business model that are devoting energy and resources to building out recurring managed-service revenue streams and creating the channel partner powerhouses of the future. If you’re hoping to earn a coveted spot on the NextGen 101, just apply for the 2020 MSP 501 and you will be automatically submitted for both lists. 

What if I can’t remember what I entered last year?

2019 applicants that provided a valid email address and have not opted out of Channel Futures/Informa marketing communications should have received a unique URL that directs them to a company-specific survey with certain pre-populated, editable information such as company information, social handles and self-reported 2018 revenue numbers. For further questions, please email [email protected].

What will winners receive in their award packages?

MSPs that earn a place on the 501 will receive an award package that includes the MSP 501 winners logo; a press release template to announce the win; suggested social media posts; and a Q&A form that winners can return to the MSP 501 editorial team that may be used as the basis for a company profile. Winners of divisional lists such as MSSP, SMB and regional lists will receive separate additional packages.

Where can I learn more?

The MSP 501 has its own landing page on the Channel Futures site. All updates and editorial coverage of the survey and 501ers will be promoted on the MSP 501 social channels as detailed below:

If you have questions or issues that are not answered here, please shoot a note to the MSP 501 editorial team at [email protected]. Thanks for your interest, get in there and best of luck!