For managed service providers (MSPs), success requires more than just technology—it demands automation, security, and strategic partnerships. Les Olson IT, a trusted technology provider with over 32 years of experience, found the perfect combination with ConnectWise through the modern platform powering ConnectWise solutions and the ConnectWise Partner Program. 

Together, they enabled Les Olson IT to scale its operations, strengthen cybersecurity, and deepen customer engagement—all without incurring additional costs.

Driving Innovation in IT: Les Olson IT’s Commitment to Cutting-Edge Solutions

Headquartered in Utah, Les Olson IT delivers managed IT services, advanced cybersecurity solutions, and cloud technologies to businesses across the region. Their clients range from small businesses to enterprise organizations that rely on secure, scalable IT infrastructure. Keith Adams, Vice President of IT, has been with Les Olson IT for his entire career, guiding the company through technological evolution and ensuring clients receive cutting-edge solutions.

As Les Olson IT expanded its managed services offering, the complexity of managing thousands of endpoints grew exponentially. “Manual processes were slowing response times, and cybersecurity threats were becoming more sophisticated,” Adams shared. “We needed a way to automate operations, monitor systems at scale, and protect clients with advanced security”—all while maintaining efficiency and profitability. 

Additionally, hosting educational events and marketing campaigns was critical for customer engagement, but these initiatives required resources. Navigating a large vendor ecosystem added another layer of complexity, and staying ahead in specialized areas demanded access to peer knowledge and emerging solutions. 

Building on a Modern Platform for Scalable IT Operations

Les Olson IT turned to ConnectWise and the platform that powers many of their solutions, to unify operations and deliver automation at scale. “ConnectWise provided us with a platform for their solutions, like ConnectWise RMM, enabling remote monitoring and management across thousands of endpoints, and ConnectWise MDR, which delivered advanced threat detection backed by a 24/7 ConnectWise Security Operations Center (SOC).” 

With the addition of Axcient x360Recover, the company ensured reliable backup and disaster recovery—all aligned for seamless workflows.

The ConnectWise Partner Program: Flexibility to Invest Where It Matters Most

But technology was only part of the solution. “Joining the ConnectWise Partner Program in 2021 gave us access to marketing development funds (MDF), expert guidance, and a network of peers,” Adams said. 

One of the most impactful benefits of the ConnectWise Partner Program was access to Marketing Development Funds (MDF). These funds gave Les Olson IT flexibility to invest in initiatives that mattered most to their customers and the local market. Adams explained: “MDF provides an option to spend in areas that we feel would be most important for us to pursue with our customer base, host events that attract new prospects, and deepen relationships with existing customers.” 

These include their annual Cybersecurity Event, which features expert speakers and offers practical insights for businesses, and their popular March Madness Networking Function, providing a fun and engaging way to connect with clients and prospects. Adams emphasized the importance of these activities: “MDF enables us to facilitate those initiatives. In many cases, it gives us an opportunity to engage in activities that we probably wouldn’t otherwise.”

Shared Support: Building a Network of Like-Minded Partners

The ConnectWise Partner Program also creates opportunities for MSPs to connect with peers who share similar industry challenges. Adams highlighted this benefit: “It’s allowed us to link up with other organizations with the same interests and the same challenges. Being able to offer that in a forum of those individuals makes it a lot easier to access that information.” This collaborative environment fosters knowledge sharing and accelerates problem-solving, providing Les Olson IT with insights into best practices and emerging trends.

One standout example of peer collaboration was the Office Technology Pre-Day event organized by ConnectWise. Adams participated in a panel discussion and found the experience invaluable. “Being part of the Pre-Day was impactful! I had an opportunity to sit on a panel, see, hear and reflect on a lot of what everybody else is going through. Jenna (Miner) was fantastic in organizing that and brought lots of resources in. 

For MSPs serving Office Technology environments, these sessions provide practical insights and actionable strategies to overcome industry-specific challenges. Adams added, “We had some good opportunities to meet with individuals and to hear proposals for alternate products and platforms that might be beneficial to the space.”

The ROI of Partnership: Immediate Benefits Without Added Expense

The combination of ConnectWise platform-powered solutions and ConnectWise Partner Program resources delivered measurable results for Les Olson IT. Operational efficiency improved significantly as RMM enabled large-scale deployment and monitoring, reducing manual work and improving response times. Automation through RMM allowed the company to scale without adding significant overhead. 

Cybersecurity strength was enhanced through MDR, which provided 24/7 threat detection and response backed by a SOC. Additional resources ensured the swift resolution of complex incidents, providing clients with peace of mind. Client engagement and growth accelerated thanks to MDF-funded events that attracted new clients and deepened relationships. Educational sessions positioned Les Olson IT as a trusted advisor in cybersecurity and IT services. Finally, participation in Office Technology-focused events and peer forums gave the company a competitive edge in specialized markets and Adams added, “It’s nice to have a partner that’s willing to help jumpstart these initiatives. The ConnectWise Partner Program is a value-added resource that allows us to grow without additional cost.”