I recently had a chance to chat with Ricky Jordan of 96 Firm about his career to date and experience with JumpCloud.
From Web Design to MSP Expertise
Ricky Jordan, founder of 96firm, has been in the tech industry for over 23 years, he began his career in web design before transitioning into the MSP space, focusing on tech support, networking, system administration, and endpoint management.
Early Challenges
Ricky started by managing a few clients with a handful of employees, learning the ropes in an era when resources like Google were not as readily available. His journey involved solving problems on the fly, dealing with dial-up connections, and physically carrying CD’s around to install software.
JumpCloud Adoption
Ricky was introduced to JumpCloud about four years ago during a critical transition when his company moved to a fully remote setup due to COVID.
He found JumpCloud to be an effective solution for managing a mixed environment of Mac and Windows devices without the need for on-premises servers.
Client Engagement
Ricky works with a diverse range of clients, from small businesses to larger enterprises, offering tailored IT solutions that include cloud directory services, MDM, and security measures.
His clients appreciate the flexibility and comprehensive nature of JumpCloud, which supports multiple operating systems and devices.
Security and Compliance
Compliance and cyber insurance have become significant drivers for adopting robust IT solutions. Ricky emphasized the importance of features like MFA, conditional access, and device management.
He helps clients navigate these requirements, ensuring they meet necessary standards while maintaining a secure and efficient IT environment.
Full Suite Utilization
Ricky leverages the full suite of JumpCloud's offerings, including directory services, MDM, SSO, Radius, and conditional access, to provide a holistic IT solution.
He also explores new features and keeps an eye on future developments, like passwordless authentication, to enhance his service offerings.
Community and Support
Ricky praised JumpCloud's community engagement through initiatives like the IT Hour and partner webinars, which offer a relaxed yet informative platform for users to interact and share insights. The company's commitment to listening to partners and continuously improving its products is a key factor in Ricky's advocacy for JumpCloud.
Conclusion
Ricky’s journey with JumpCloud showcases the potential for MSPs to enhance their service offerings with a robust, flexible, and supportive cloud directory platform. His experiences highlight the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and building strong partnerships in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Whether you're a seasoned MSP or new to the field, JumpCloud offers the tools and support to help you succeed.
