The challenge
With over 55 franchisees across the country and remote working a feature of their business model, The Alternative Board has a particular need for a cohesive IT infrastructure to support, grow and develop the network. Digital communications play an important role in the success of the services offered to members.
Having reviewed their IT needs as a business — TAB felt that they needed a more integrated approach to their IT support from ideas for fixing day-to-day issues to developing their IT operations (particularly at the head office, crucial for the business’ IT success).
Having just moved into a smart new head office in Leeds, SharePoint underpinned business communications, and was critical to future business success. The existing system setup, whilst functional, was lacking some fineness in a few areas. TAB wasn’t maximising its software licensing investment.
They needed a provider that was attentive to their needs, integrated and supportive of their network growth and, importantly, proactive in providing solutions.
Our solution
We really got to know TAB’s needs, designing and implementing a robust, secure IT environment that could deliver enterprise quality connectivity. This involved a new leased line that was set up to work with the pre-existing internal business network and an internal network including WiFi access to deliver connectivity around the building.
Having reviewed licensing, hardware and device requirements, we also introduced a layered approach to cybersecurity (Office 365 email controls, firewall and malware protection) and remote support software for streamlined head office support. Finally, we implement a robust backup and disaster recovery system to protect the business against data failure and ransomware compromise — should the worst happen.
For continuity, the final phase was adding The Alternative Board on to a bespoke monthly support plan. This positions us perfectly to flexibly manage the comprehensive IT needs of the business effectively.
This goes beyond simply fixing issues (although we do that too, of course!) — this monthly ‘retainer’ provides us with an all-encompassing understanding of all IT issues. It empowers us to proactively design smarter, added-value solutions to meet growing business needs.
The results
Choosing to switch IT MSPs can be intimidating business. There’s so much at stake; it can feel easier to remain in an unhappy relationship, even if you don’t feel you’re getting true value for money. Then, there’s always the fear that after the ‘honeymoon period’ ends, the enthusiasm and ideas dry up…
So, although TAB are finally enjoying a seamless, enterprise-grade IT experience, we’re not done there. We pride ourselves as being a continued extension of TAB’s in-house team, providing ongoing management, proactive support and guidance on every aspect of their IT strategy — so they no longer strictly require any in-house IT expertise!
We can’t wait to continue supporting TAB’s growth and success, just as they help business owners in their peer support network to thrive.
