Blog | POPX

How automation can help MSPs overcome the skills shortage

Written by Andy Venables | Jun 11, 2025 12:19:55 PM

The MSP industry is undergoing a seismic shift. Rapid technological advancement, soaring client expectations, and the growing demand for operational efficiency have created a unique challenge for MSPs: finding and retaining skilled labour. The competition for qualified technicians is stiffer than ever, leaving even the most successful businesses struggling to keep up. 

But there’s no need to hit a wall. Automation has emerged as a game-changing solution, empowering MSPs to free up resources, reduce their dependency on hard-to-hire talent, and focus on strategic growth. At the heart of this transformation is POPX, with its intelligently designed automation tools tailored to meet the needs of enterprise MSPs. 

This article will explore the skilled labour problem, demonstrate how automation is addressing this challenge, and showcase practical steps to automate your MSP operations for long-term success. 

 

The skilled labour shortage problem in the MSP industry

MSPs are known for their agility in providing IT services, but even the most agile businesses can falter without enough skilled hands on deck. Here’s how the shortage is affecting MSPs today. 

High demand for skilled workers 

The rise of cloud computing, cybersecurity risks, and complex digital environments means MSPs need technicians with advanced expertise in areas like networking, monitoring, and system optimisation. However, the supply of tech-savvy professionals is falling far short of demand. 

According to recent labour shortage statistics, the global labor shortage has reached 70% in 2025. This gap leaves many MSPs unable to compete with the lucrative benefits and salaries offered by larger enterprises.

Operational challenges for MSPs 

Over-reliance on skilled workers is affecting service delivery timelines, increasing operational costs, and placing undue pressure on existing teams. This bottleneck prevents scalable growth, creates inconsistent customer experiences, and keeps MSPs from focusing on value-driven services. 

Automation offers a way out, freeing MSPs from tedious tasks that don’t require a skilled touch and reducing dependency on select individuals. 

Learn more about how MSPs can maintain operational efficiency amidst labour shortages.

How automation can replace repetitive, low-value tasks 

Automation works like a turbocharger for MSP operations, taking over repetitive, low-value tasks so skilled technicians can work smarter, not harder. Here’s how POPX and its automation solutions are transforming workflows. 

Streamline mundane processes 

Skilled workers often find themselves bogged down in time-consuming tasks, such as manual ticket resolution, repetitive reporting, and basic system monitoring. POPX’s Automated Ticket Management solves this challenge by identifying recurring issues, resolving them without human intervention, and escalating urgent problems directly to your team when needed. 

This automation significantly reduces resolution times and ensures that your team is focused on customer-critical issues rather than minor recurring errors. 

Reduce errors in routine tasks 

Even the best technician can make mistakes under pressure; we’re all human. Fortunately, AI-powered automation tools avoid these pitfalls by standardising processes. For instance, Predictive Insights by POPX analyse and anticipate patterns within your systems, preventing small errors from escalating into major issues. 

Save time and resources 

With tools that operate 24/7, automation completes critical functions at a speed no human workforce can achieve. For example, using AI-powered system monitoring, POPX reduces the manual effort required to interpret system health and flags priority areas before they affect the client experience. 

By shifting routine tasks to automation, MSPs can achieve faster response times and deliver consistently high-quality service across their client base. 

Automation as a path to strategic growth 

Moving beyond day-to-day operations, automation creates strategic opportunities for MSPs by freeing up time and resources for innovation and long-term planning. 

Freeing up skilled workers for high-value roles 

Rather than assigning top-tier technicians to mundane tasks, automation enables MSPs to deploy their talent where it matters most. Crucial roles like strategic planning, client relationships, and customised service offerings thrive when your workforce isn’t tied down by administrative burdens. 

Scalable MSP operations 

POPX enables MSPs to scale without proportionally increasing costs. By automating critical workflows, MSPs can handle growing client demand without constantly hiring new staff. This is particularly relevant for small-to-moderate-sized MSPs eager to expand but limited by existing capacity. 

Discover how the POPX Profitability Blueprint can create scalable success for MSPs.

Key features of POPX’s automation solutions 

Automating your MSP workflows is simpler (and more powerful) with POPX. Designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing structure, here’s a look at some of its standout features. 

  1. Automated ticket management 

By handling recurring issues automatically, this feature reduces technician workload and ensures faster resolution times for clients. 

  1. AI-powered monitoring 

POPX’s monitoring tools provide real-time insights into your system’s health and performance, identifying potential issues before they arise. 

  1. Predictive insights for efficiency 

Measure patterns, anticipate operational challenges, and adjust processes before customer experiences are affected. 

  1. Scalable integration 

POPX integrates across platforms to consolidate workflows, eliminate silos, and ensure uninterrupted functionality. 

POPX’s automation solutions provide a future-proof foundation for MSPs looking to thrive in a competitive market while delivering exceptional service. 

Actionable steps for successful automation 

Start your automation journey with key steps that ensure a smooth transition and maximum impact. 

  1. Audit existing workflows: Identify repetitive tasks in your daily operations that consume excessive time and resources. 
  2. Prioritise high-impact areas: Focus your automation efforts on processes that can deliver the greatest improvements in efficiency and service. 
  3. Leverage POPX tools: Integrate POPX automation solutions into your MSP platform step by step to streamline operations without disrupting existing workflows.
  4. Monitor and adjust: Regularly track performance, looking for opportunities to optimise operations and eliminate bottlenecks. 

Best practices for long-term success 

Successful automation is not just about implementing tools; it's about building a thoughtful strategy that drives meaningful results over time. By adopting key best practices, you can ensure your operations remain efficient, adaptable, and primed for growth. Consider

  • Gradually scaling up automation to allow employees to adapt smoothly to new systems. 
  • Providing training for your team to ensure they can collaborate effectively with AI-powered tools. 
  • Evaluating automation results regularly and adjusting strategies as new challenges emerge. 

Looking ahead with POPX 

The skilled labour crisis may be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to define the future of MSPs. With tools like automated ticket management, predictive insights, and AI-powered monitoring, automation presents a path forward that is efficient, scalable, and cost-effective. 

At POPX, we’re passionate about empowering MSPs to focus on what they do best by easing operational burdens. Want to see how automation could transform your business? 

Book a Demo with POPX today and take your first step toward becoming a Smart MSP. 

Curious to learn more about how automation can redefine your approach to service delivery? Our blog post on how to automate ServiceNow dives deep into practical ways MSPs can fully harness the power of automation. From streamlining workflows to achieving remarkable time savings, you'll discover actionable insights designed to help your business thrive in a fast-evolving market.