Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA) has announced that CRN has named its direct sales division, Sharp Business Systems (SBS), to its Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list in the Elite 150 category for 2024. The MSP 500 list compiled by CRN serves as a comprehensive guide to identifying and recognizing the top managed service providers (MSPs) in North America. MSPs play a crucial role in supporting businesses by offering managed services that enhance efficiency, simplify IT solutions and optimize return on investment.

Sharp was selected to the MSP 500 list because of the robust portfolio of managed IT services that it offers to a variety of vertical industries, ensuring efficiency and productivity. The company leverages its partnerships with other technology companies and providers to deliver optimal solutions for clients. In 2024, Sharp is focused on cybersecurity and educating clients to improve their network and data protection.

"It is an honor to be included on CRN's Managed Service Providers list in the Elite 150 category due to Sharp's ongoing commitment of providing the highest quality managed services to our clients," said Joe O'Malley, senior vice president, Sharp Business Systems. "This recognition is a testament to our innovative work and strategic partnerships that allow our clients to operate with ease and confidence."

The annual MSP 500 list is divided into three sections: the MSP Pioneer 250, MSP Elite 150 and the Managed Security 100. SBS was selected as part of the MSP Elite 150, which recognizes large, data center-focused MSPs with a strong mix of on- and off-premise services.

Jennifer Follett, vice president of U.S. content and executive editor, CRN, The Channel Company, emphasized the significance of managed services for businesses at various scales.

"Managed services provide a route for businesses of all sizes to maintain efficiency and adaptability throughout their growth journey," Follett said. "The solution providers featured in our 2024 MSP 500 list are introducing cutting-edge managed services portfolios to the market, enabling their clients to achieve success by optimizing their IT budgets. This allows businesses to allocate resources strategically, concentrating on mission-critical tasks that drive future success."

The MSP 500 list aims to showcase and celebrate MSPs that are driving growth and innovation in the industry. These service providers not only enable businesses to harness complex technologies, but also contribute to maintaining a strong focus on core business goals without stretching financial resources. By categorizing MSPs based on their business models and areas of expertise, the list helps end users find the right partners to meet their specific needs and challenges in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

In other news, Sharp Electronics Corp. (SEC) has announced it was recently named one of the 2024 Best Places to Work in Technology by the Best Companies Group. Sharp is ranked 12th in the program alongside several other top technology corporations.

The Best Places to Work in Technology awards program aims to acknowledge and celebrate the top employers in the technology industry in the United States. The application process involved an employee engagement survey, which measured staff experience in eight core focus areas: Leadership and Planning, Corporate Culture and Communications, Role Satisfaction Work Environment, Relationship with Supervisor, Training, Development and Resources, Pay and Benefits and Overall Engagement. The final score determined the top companies and ranking, listing Sharp as a leading technology company.

Sharp was awarded this recognition largely due to its status as a leader in innovative office solutions, home appliances and smart technologies. The company prioritizes its employees and offers an exceptional work environment coupled with plentiful career development opportunities and is dedicated to creating a collaborative and inclusive work culture that promotes teamwork and a sense of belonging. Additionally, Sharp offers comprehensive wellness programs, philanthropic initiatives, diverse business resource groups and more to ensure employee success.

"It's especially gratifying to be included on the list of the Best Places to Work in Technology given our decades-long track record as a leader and employer of choice in the technology space," said Jeff Ashida, chairman, president and CEO, Sharp Electronics Corp. "This award is not only a testament to Sharp's unwavering commitment and dedication to our customers and the broader reseller community, but also to our culture of fostering success and innovation."

The winners are featured in a digital publication in March 2024, posted on The Best Companies Group website and were honored during a virtual awards ceremony on March 1, 2024.