For most solution providers, the promise of higher revenues and greater profit margins that managed services offer is too good to pass up. But these perks come with a trade-off: Today, managed service providers (MSPs) must reinvent themselves and their businesses to do business in a market where traditional rules don't apply.

In this issue's cover story, "Ready For Your Sales & Marketing Makeover?," we explore how MSP s Tim Lambrecht of InCompass IT , Wayne Gosselin of CenterPoint Direct and Jeff Boate of SMS proTECH have made that transition -- adapting their sales structures and marketing strategies to maximize opportunities in the managed services arena. We also take a look at a full-fledged marketing makeover that Bob Knapp, president of Computer Systems Integrators (CSI), recently completed with help from Ingram Micro's Marketing Services Agency. A longtime solution provider and emerging MSP , Knapp collaborated with the agency's experts to develop a new elevator pitch, fresh collateral and an up-to-date web site, as well as to brand the company's proprietary managed services.

Also on the topic of marketing, this issue's Sales & Marketing Advisor column, "Innovative and Affordable Marketing With Social Media," explores how technology leaders such as Cisco are engaging their customers through blogs, online video and other high-impact, low-cost tools. And for a glimpse of how key manufacturers are planning to spend their marketing dollars in the coming year, be sure to check out our new research brief, featuring primary research from the Ingram Micro Business Intelligence Center.

Whether you're changing your business model or just looking to reach your maximum potential, Ingram Micro is here to support you along the way. To explore our managed services offerings, visit www.ingrammicro.com/seismic. And to learn more about services available through the Marketing Services Agency, visit www.ingrammicro.com/marketingservices.