Streamlining IT for Performing Arts Organisation
Efficient and reliable IT support for smooth operations.
A much-needed strategy for dependable IT.
A prestigious performing arts organisation, established in 1932, has earned a global reputation for excellence. It has a long-standing residency at a major cultural centre in London and performs worldwide, collaborating on blockbuster film soundtracks. Dependable IT is essential for their operations, ensuring access to vital information and seamless coordination across multiple locations.
Challenges
For a major orchestra, IT is crucial for operations, relying on a mix of off-the-shelf and bespoke software. However, the orchestra faced significant issues with previous IT support providers, experiencing poor customer service and low-quality engineers despite substantial payments. The support companies often insisted on sending engineers for simple tasks that could be handled remotely, leading to unnecessary costs and delays. Additionally, the orchestra, which had previously used Macs, was frustrated by the lack of specialist knowledge from these support providers.
Operational Downtime
Frequent IT downtime left the organisation unable to function effectively, impacting access to essential software and information.
Inefficient Cost Management
High costs were incurred due to unnecessary on-site visits and the inability of previous providers to resolve issues remotely.
Solution
To enhance the orchestra's IT systems, a series of key upgrades were implemented. A new SQL Server was installed and all workstations replaced, significantly improving hardware and software performance to better manage the growing database system. A spam filtering system was introduced to more efficiently handle unsolicited emails, reducing the time users spent sorting junk. A secure remote access unit was set up, allowing staff to safely access systems from any location and ensuring continuity of operations. Additionally, a new email server was installed, along with a tape loader unit and image recovery software, providing full server imaging for robust disaster recovery.
SQL Server Installation
Utilize improved hardware and software performance by installing an SQL server and replacing all workstations, facilitating better management of the growing database.
Spam Filtering System
A new spam filtering system reduced the time staff spent sorting through unsolicited emails, improving overall productivity.
Enhanced Email Server and Disaster Recovery
Utilize installed a new email server with a tape loader unit and image recovery software, providing full server imaging for robust disaster recovery.
Upgraded Network Cabling
Installation of Cat5e cabling upgraded the network to Gigabit speed, allowing faster access to servers and services.
Results
Dedicated Account Management:
Regular quarterly meetings with a dedicated account manager help the organisation plan its IT agenda confidently, ensuring tailored and efficient support.
Faster Response Times:
Utilize's quick response to issues minimises downtime, with knowledgeable and friendly support staff available through a web portal for logging and tracking calls.
Improved Security and Disaster Recovery:
Centralised monitoring of anti-virus and spam filtering services, combined with a comprehensive disaster recovery plan, has significantly enhanced IT security.
Optimised IT Budget Management:
Honest and practical advice from Utilize allows the organisation to make informed decisions, ensuring cost-effective IT investments without unnecessary expenditure.
“Since we made the switch to Utilize, we’ve witnessed a level of service that had been sorely missing from our experiences with previous providers. Our account manager is always open and honest with us – he gives us good advice on the products and services we ought to start thinking about and gives us options rather than just the most expensive. It’s not all about the hard sell.”
— Company Finance and IT Manager
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