March 25 marked the first day of N-able Empower 2024, an eagerly anticipated event in Frisco, TX, for IT services companies globally. The event, which kicked off at 2 p.m. CST, was a hive of activity with attendees eager to dive into the transformative insights and innovations set to redefine the MSP landscape.
The general session commenced with a vibrant display of movie clips symbolizing progress and transformation, setting the tone for an event centered on forward momentum. David Weeks, vice president partner experience at N-Able, took to the stage to address the “winds of change” sweeping through the industry. Weeks encouraged attendees to “Change the Narrative” and seize the emerging trends as opportunities to capture new markets and grow their businesses. His speech highlighted the importance of adaptation and innovation in staying ahead in the fast-evolving MSP space.
The event also paid tribute to Michael Sean (Mike) Cullen, a revered figure within N-Able, remembering his significant contributions and partnership. This poignant moment reminded participants of the enduring relationships and community spirit that underpin the channel.
Amidst an agenda packed with sessions and breakouts tailored to various N-Able products, attendees were afforded an in-depth look at new capabilities and future directions. Notably, the event emphasized education, with certification sessions led by N-able Tech Nerds, designed to equip partners with the knowledge and tools necessary for success.
N-able President and CEO John Pagliuca echoed Weeks’ sentiments, thanking the diverse international audience of MSPs for their participation. Pagliuca, alongside Vice President of Partner Growth Robert Wilburn, delved deeper into the theme of transformation. They discussed how MSPs could harness deliberate focus and strategic changes to set their trajectory towards long-term success.
This rallying cry for transformation was positioned as a pivotal agenda for both N-Able and its partners.
The discussions centered on transforming target markets, services, and delivery models to meet rapidly changing customer expectations and the growing recognition of MSPs’ value. Pagliuca outlined the critical moments for MSPs to consider transformation, including when experiencing slower market growth, weakened unit economics, shrinking revenue per employee ratios, and increased management overhead.
Highlighting N-Able’s commitment to facilitating partner transformation, the event highlighted how standardization and automation through API and AI integration are critical tools in this journey. Pagliuca reassured attendees that with the right blend of durable truths, technological tools, and insights, success in the market was well within reach.
As the four-day event progresses, attendees expect more insights on these same topics. The Empower agenda is punctuated with track-specific sessions, keynotes, and networking opportunities, but the theme that was laid out in the kickoff, digital transformation, is clearly represented throughout.