How we have helped
Alexander Associates
Background
Alexander Associates required an IT partner capable of handling complex projects and providing comprehensive support from 1st to 3rd line. As an experienced IT partner to organisations across the recruitment industry, decision-makers at Alexander Associates chose Akita to handle several critical IT initiatives.
Challenges
Alexander Associates faced several challenges that needed immediate attention including:
- Server Infrastructure: The company was operating on Windows servers that were going end of life. We migrated them to a more efficient and future-proof solution that modernised their operations.
- Cyber Security: With threats growing in both complexity and consistency, an upgrade to a more robust system was necessary.
- Communication Systems: The company required a more flexible and scalable communication solution to handle its extensive inbound and outbound call requirements.
- Compliance And Recruitment: Regularly tendering for public sector recruitment requirements, there was a need for adherence to Cyber Essentials standards to provide higher qualification rates.
- System Uptime: Ensuring system uptime and reliability with round-the-clock 24/7 support and regular patching.
Solutions Implemented
Based on Alexander Associates’ requirements coupled with our knowledge and experience providing IT solutions for recruitment organisations, we implemented a series of solutions. These solutions ran in line with a strategic plan designed to gradually optimise processes and improve efficiency.
We executed a comprehensive server migration project to modernise Alexander Associates’ IT infrastructure. This included implementing a load-balancing solution to ensure resources were spread equally between servers, significantly speeding up their system and improving performance. Additionally, we increased server capacity to handle the increased load and future growth and quickly and efficiently migrated all operations away from Windows 2012.
To enhance cyber security measures, we upgraded them to Microsoft Defender For Business with business premium licensing, offering advanced threat protection and endpoint security. This upgrade not only improved their security posture with better detection and response capabilities but also achieved significant cost savings through optimised licensing and integrated security features.
Ensuring compliance with Cyber Essentials was another critical goal that Alexander Associates wanted to achieve. We implemented Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security; particularly important for remote access. Achieving Cyber Essentials certification was vital for them to meet the stringent requirements often associated with tendering for contracts and working within the public sector. Our efforts ensured that their IT systems met the required standards, positioning them for success in these areas.
To improve their communication infrastructure, we provided comprehensive support for 3CX VoIP phones. This included setting up hunt groups with tailored options for each department, including bespoke solutions for international calling. We also extended SIP trunks to accommodate the high volume of inbound and outbound calls, ensuring seamless communication across the organisation.
Maintaining system reliability and security was crucial, so we conduct out-of-hours patching every quarter, covering six main servers to minimise downtime. Our 24/7 support ensured that any issues were promptly addressed, maintaining high system uptime and performance.
Results
The strategic solutions we’ve implemented for Alexander Associates have delivered significant improvements across the company’s IT estate.
The new server infrastructure with load balancing and increased capacity led to faster and more reliable system performance. With Microsoft Defender for Business and Duo MFA, the company’s security posture was significantly strengthened, reducing the risk of cyber threats.
The 3CX system and expanded SIP trunks ensured seamless and efficient communication across the organisation, supporting their extensive call requirements. Achieving full compliance with Cyber Essentials facilitated smoother operations in public sector projects, giving them access to more tenders whilst also improving their security.
Finally, the 24/7 support and regular patching schedule ensure high system reliability and minimised downtime.