SMP

SMP Group is an award-winning marketing communications company.

From locations around the UK, it delivers print, marketing and consumer research services to some of the nation’s largest and most well-known brands and companies.

The group engaged Akita based on concerns that its then-IT partner was allowing its systems to stagnate. Based on a proposed programme of strategic IT modernisation, Akita won the group’s IT tender.

Cloud Migration & IT Modernisation

We’ve since enacted that programme, focusing first on infrastructure.

To support the ongoing growth of the group, we’ve migrated much of the ageing onsite IT server equipment to the cloud. We’ve also overhauled the group’s network for easier management, reducing 10 virtual networks down to just 3.

Following these network improvements, many of SMP’s systems have been moved to the cloud, providing reliability, scalability and improved security for its IT systems. We’ve additionally provided improved internet connectivity and an ultrafast point-to-point connection with both of Akita’s datacentres, allowing for cross-replication of data for extra security.

Ongoing IT Support

Akita also supports SMP with its day-to-day IT, with our helpdesk delivering 24/7 remote IT support for all of the group’s locations.

The company uses a mix of Apple and Windows technologies. And with both Microsoft and Mac-accredited engineers, we’ve been able to both support and optimise this hybrid setup.

We also support the group’s printing arm with its specialist software Tharstern MIS, commonly used in the print industry.

By partnering with SMP Group for their IT, Akita has been able to deliver both a responsive IT support service and a strategic roadmap for the group’s IT.