5 ways to maximise ROI from your Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider

If you’re only seeing your Azure or Microsoft 365 (M365) cloud resources as an expense to bear, then you’re probably missing a trick when it comes to unlocking hidden value and cost-saving opportunities.

It’s not uncommon to hear from organisations unhappy with their existing CSP agreements. Often citing a lack of responsiveness, support, or additional tools and services that make life a little easier.

All of which makes for a purely transactional relationship that offers little in return.

Kocho believe your CSP should be your strategic IT partner. Invested in your success, and unlocking new value, cost optimisation, security, and growth.

In this blog we explore 5 ways you can look to drive more value out of your CSP agreement.

1: Proactive cloud optimisation

Cloud computing has progressed, and organisations are starting to grasp the value in monitoring resource usage to control costs, enhance security, and improve adoption.

That’s why some CSPs now offer dashboards with basic analytics.

But is that really enough?

When cloud spend makes such a dent in the budget, shouldn’t it deliver more than basic reports and dashboards?

But, working with a proactive CSP should take the heavy lifting off your IT team, providing real-time adjustments and recommendations to keep your cloud efficient.

At Kocho, our Azure Optimisation Manager blends AI-driven insights with expert management, delivering continuous cloud usage analysis.

We don’t just offer insights, we actively manage your environment, optimising costs, enhancing performance, and securing resources.

This includes pausing workloads, identifying underused resources, and moving services to lower-cost tiers. Often resulting in cloud spend savings of over 30%.

It’s about transforming your Azure and M365 environments from a cost burden and into a platform that supports your business goals.

2: Built-in security for peace of mind

We know that cloud security is a top concern for most IT professionals. Advanced cyber threats are a critical risk, and working with a CSP with deep credentials and expertise in cloud security is essential.

Security can’t be an afterthought. Organisations should look towards CSPs with security and Zero Trust principles embedded into every layer of their offering.

Your cloud isn’t just an investment, it’s the lifeblood of your organisation and needs to be secured against both known and emerging threats.

Kocho’s credentials in cloud security demonstrate this level of commitment, showcasing a comprehensive, security-first approach that goes beyond the basics to truly safeguard your cloud infrastructure.

This includes:

• Expertise and recognition: Over 25 years as a Microsoft Partner with five Microsoft Designations, including Security, and membership in the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA).
• Microsoft security specialisations: Cloud Security, Identity and Access Management, Information Protection and Governance, and Threat Protection. All of which work hand-in-hand with our specialisation in secure Azure migrations.
• Proven experience: A team of 100+ consultants delivering secure cloud solutions across industries, applying best practices and cutting-edge security.

A CSP with a proven track record in security can ensure that protection is not an add-on but a foundational element, helping organisations build a resilient cloud environment. This expertise doesn’t just reduce risks; it supports compliance, optimises performance, and frees your IT team to focus on growth, not firefighting security issues.

3: Balancing cloud services with security operations

Managing cloud services and security operations can feel like a tug-of-war, especially when both compete for limited budgets and resources.

Finding solutions that address both needs effectively is challenging, but partnering with a CSP skilled in both cloud management and security simplifies the process.

At Kocho, we bring together Azure and Microsoft 365 management with robust cloud security and award-winning managed XDR (extended detection and response) services.

It’s an approach that consolidates your cloud and security operations, offering cost-efficiency and unified security across your estate, backed by expert analysts and Microsoft’s best technology.

This is what we mean by taking a true partnership approach. A partnership based on flexibility and open conversations about cost-saving options, even “try-before-you-buy” opportunities.

Ensuring you strengthen security without straining your budget.

4: Leveraging expertise for strategic advantage

A quality CSP does more than simply sell Azure or Microsoft 365 licences.

They unlock the full potential of the Microsoft ecosystem. Whether it’s identity management, automation, or device management, they offer strategic, hands-on support that drives real impact.

Any CSP worth their salt should aim to bring extra value to the relationship, and that might include consultancy or discovery sessions to help you streamline critical projects and cut costs where it counts.

At Kocho, for instance, our cloud packages include opportunities for free consultancy or developer days, adding valuable expertise to your IT initiatives.

Think about what that kind of partnership could mean when it comes to projects like adopting AI, migrating legacy systems, or scaling automation.

5: Finding hidden savings and driving growth

The best CSPs bring more than just cloud resources, they help you find cost savings where you wouldn’t expect them.

They might offer savings on secure Microsoft 365 backups or automate processes to reduce admin burdens.

Furthermore, working with a leading Microsoft partner like Kocho, can open access to potential Microsoft funded opportunities.

The right CSP will know how to navigate these options to unlock savings that make a real impact on your bottom line.

Cloud partnerships should go beyond visible savings, adding value that transforms your cloud environment into a growth driver.

Why the right CSP is more than just a provider

Choosing the right CSP is about more than finding the lowest cost provider.

It’s about finding a partner invested in your success. Who can add tangible value and who’s capable of proactively driving improvements across your cloud environment.

Imagine the difference between a provider who simply processes your cloud requests, and a partner who actively works to ensure your cloud investment is a strategic enabler for your business.

One that not only reduces cost but also drives growth, boosts productivity, and lays the foundation for sustainable progress.

In doing so, you create a foundation for greater resilience, productivity, and sustainable growth.

Turning your Azure investment into a high-performing engine, perfectly tuned to drive your business into the future.

Key takeaways

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