What is a Node?

Node is a term MSPCFO uses to count managed end points. Many MSPs use a RMM tool to manage a client’s workstations and servers. Typically, a managed server demands twice the amount of time to service than a managed workstation requires. Therefore we assign a managed server two end points and a managed workstation one end point.   For example, if a client has 10 workstations and 4 servers, the node count for that client would be 18 (10x1 + 4x2). The ratio is set up in the Lookup> Configurations List table and can be modified.  

We make the assumption that if you are paying for RMM agents, the count for managed workstations and managed servers is accurate.  This information is captured by your PSA. MSPCFO can help you review this list.

You should keep the list of managed servers and managed workstations current. Not only does it make your node count more accurate, but if you are paying your RMM vendor for these agents, you want to have them accurate. Ask your customer support rep. at MSPCFO to create a list for you of all active managed servers and managed workstations per client.

How are Nodes used?

Nodes are used to help you understand how much time it takes to service the nodes and the amount of money you are making per node. These analytics can help you determine how the client is utilizing your services ( hours/node compared to the average) or  if it is a revenue concern ($ per node compared to the average).

The node calculations are used in the Client Segments Report and the Market Segments Report.  To use these analytics you must have the values contained within the report. Click on the tools icon below (highlighted in yellow) to select the columns for this report.

 

A list of fields is displayed. Make sure the three columns ---- Nodes, $/Node, Hours/Node are selectd to show in the report.

For a given client, the number of nodes is displayed. This number comes from using the information from your PSA. The hours/ node = FFHours/Nodes. The $ per node = FFA ($) / Nodes.

Examples of Node Analytics

From the report below where the data is from the trailing 12 months,  the average time spent per node is .16 of an hour and the Average revenue per node is $16. When looking at Hours/Node and $/Node, make sure to divide by the number of months the report is covering because these numbers are monthly values.

 

Example of client in Quintile 1, the bottom quintile. Client 6394 has 197 nodes.

Hours/Node = (FF Hours/Nodes) / Months   (535.62/197)/12 = .23

$/Node = (FFA $ / Nodes) / Months    ($55,397/197)/12 = $23

This client is an over utilizer using about 50% more time per node than an average user.

Example of client in Quintile 5, the top quintile. Client 6423 has 63 nodes.

Hours/Node = (137.23/63) / 12 = .18

$/Node = ($30,467/63) / 12 = $40

This client is slightly over the utilization time, but has labor revenue over double the average.

With the breakdown of hours and dollars, the MSP can get a clearer picture of utilization vs. pricing for each client.