Why New Zealand MSPs need to embrace AI in RMM

Artificial intelligence is no longer just a buzzword in New Zealand. It’s rapidly becoming a cornerstone for managed service providers (MSPs) aiming to stay competitive. As organizations across the country increasingly adopt AI-driven solutions, MSPs are finding that integrating AI into remote monitoring and management (RMM) isn’t just helpful — it’s essential for growth.

Recent data highlights a significant uptick in AI usage among Aotearoa businesses. According to AI Forum New Zealand, the period from late 2024 to early 2025 saw a 15% jump in AI adoption, with over 80% of organizations now leveraging AI in some capacity. The benefits are clear: 93% of users report noticeable productivity boosts, 56% cite positive financial impacts and 71% enjoy tangible operational cost reductions.

For MSPs, failing to embrace AI could lead to trailing behind more innovative competitors and struggling to attract new clients.

AI is transforming the way MSPs handle RMM, making it possible to streamline operations, enhance client support, and reduce overheads. Key innovations include:

AI now enables RMM platforms to generate and refine administrative scripts in moments, drastically cutting down the time needed for remote endpoint management.

With AI-driven patch stability scoring, MSPs can proactively assess the risks of software updates. This helps prevent client downtime by identifying unstable patches before they’re deployed and flagging potential issues using real-time intelligence.

Solutions like Acronis Copilot use generative AI to simplify software rollouts. The solution automatically generates installation commands, uninstall scripts  and relevant metadata, making complex deployments far less daunting.

While AI-powered RMM is still evolving, the trajectory is clear. Expect to see:

• Scalable automation: AI will empower MSPs to automate entire workflows, from IT operations to logistics and customer support.
• Service innovation: Forward-thinking MSPs are already distinguishing themselves with AI-enhanced services. As technology matures, these providers will offer faster, more reliable and increasingly automated solutions.
• Transformed workforce dynamics: AI-driven automation means MSPs can reduce their reliance on reactive troubleshooting. Technicians will be freed to focus on strategic initiatives and higher-value tasks.
• Enhanced governance: AI will bolster risk management, oversight and compliance, ensuring MSPs can deliver robust, secure services.

Beyond generative AI tools like ChatGPT, two trends are evolving and will ultimately reshape way MSPs use RMM:

This approach combines multiple AI disciplines, resulting in solutions that are more robust, accurate and dependable than those relying on a single AI method.

This technology introduces virtual agents capable of autonomous decision-making and proactive problem-solving. Integrated into RMM, agentic AI will enable MSPs to resolve issues before clients even notice them, all while reducing the need for human intervention.

As AI continues to advance in New Zealand, MSPs need to stay ahead of the curve. Tools like Acronis RMM are already leading the charge with features that harness AI for scripting and automation. By embracing these innovations, MSPs in Aotearoa can position themselves for long-term success.