Microsoft Business Premium

Background

Howard Bros Joinery is a company that specialises in joinery and carpentry services. They provide tailored solutions for businesses in need of customised woodwork, such as cabinets, furniture, and architectural elements. With its expertise and high-quality craftsmanship, Howard Bros Joinery has established a strong reputation in the industry. Their commitment to excellence and attention to detail make them a trusted choice for companies looking for top-notch joinery services.

Problem

Howard Bros Joinery, a long-time customer of MPR IT Solutions, made the strategic decision to upgrade from Microsoft 365 Business Standard to Microsoft Business Premium. This upgrade was driven by their recognition of the increasing importance of data security and their reliance on Office 365 for their daily operations. By upgrading to Business Premium, Howard Bros Joinery would not only enhance its existing security measures but also gain access to a wide range of additional benefits and tools. These include advanced collaboration features, business email and calendar services, and cloud storage solutions. With this upgrade, Howard Bros Joinery will be able to optimise its productivity, streamline its workflows, and ensure the utmost security of its valuable business data.

Solution

To upgrade the licenses for Howard Bros Joinery, MPR IT Solutions needed to undertake the following steps:

  1. Evaluate the current licensing: MPR IT Solutions assessed the existing licenses held by Howard Bros Joinery to determine their compatibility with Microsoft Business Premium. This evaluation helped identify any necessary modifications or upgrades in the licensing structure.
  2. Conduct a compatibility check: MPR IT Solutions verified that the existing IT infrastructure and systems at Howard Bros Joinery were compatible with Microsoft Business Premium. This involved ensuring that the hardware, software, and network configurations could support the new licenses seamlessly.
  3. Purchase Microsoft Business Premium licenses: MPR IT Solutions procured the required number of licenses for Howard Bros Joinery. This involved acquiring the appropriate licenses from Microsoft and setting up the necessary billing and payment arrangements.
  4. Plan the license migration: MPR IT Solutions developed a comprehensive plan for migrating Howard Bros Joinery’s existing licenses to Microsoft Business Premium. This plan included considerations for user access, data migration, and any necessary downtime or disruptions during the transition process.
  5. Configure and activate the licenses: MPR IT Solutions configured and activated the newly acquired Microsoft Business Premium licenses for Howard Bros Joinery. This involved setting up user accounts, assigning appropriate permissions and access levels, and configuring any additional security measures as required.
  6. Provide training and support: MPR IT Solutions offered training and support to Howard Bros Joinery’s staff to ensure a smooth transition to Microsoft Business Premium. This included familiarising them with the new features, functionalities, and security measures available with the upgraded licenses.
  7. Monitor and maintain the licenses: MPR IT Solutions continues to monitor and maintain the licenses for Howard Bros Joinery, ensuring that they remain up-to-date and in compliance with licensing agreements. This involves periodic reviews, updates, and license renewal management. By following these steps, MPR IT Solutions successfully upgraded the licenses for Howard Bros Joinery to Microsoft Business Premium, enabling them to take advantage of enhanced security, collaboration features, and productivity tools.

Results

As a result of upgrading to Microsoft Business Premium, Howard Bros Joinery’s team now benefits from enhanced security measures and the ability to manage their devices through Microsoft Intune. This ensures the utmost security of their valuable business data and provides peace of mind.

With the Business Premium licenses, Howard Bros Joinery can take advantage of features such as:

  1. Advanced Data Security: The upgraded licenses provide robust security measures to protect against potential threats and breaches, safeguarding sensitive business information.
  2. Microsoft Intune Integration: By utilising Microsoft Intune, Howard Bros Joinery can manage and secure their devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, all from a centralised dashboard. This gives them greater control and visibility over their company’s devices and helps prevent unauthorised access.
  3. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Business Premium also offers the option to enable MFA, adding an extra layer of security by requiring users to verify their identities using multiple authentication methods, such as a password and a fingerprint or a one-time verification code.
  4. Secure Collaboration: With advanced collaboration features, such as SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive, the team at Howard Bros Joinery can securely share files, collaborate on projects, and communicate internally and externally, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
  5. Microsoft 365 Office Apps: With the Business Premium licenses, Howard Bros Joinery gains access to the full suite of Microsoft 365 apps, including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. These apps enable them to create, edit, and share documents seamlessly, enhancing their productivity and enabling effective communication. Upgrading to Microsoft Business Premium has not only provided Howard Bros Joinery with additional security measures, and device management, but it has also empowered them with tools and features, such as Microsoft 365 apps, to optimise their workflows, streamline their operations, and maintain a secure and productive work environment.

Upgrade Your Microsoft Licences to Business Premium with MPR IT Solutions

At MPR IT Solutions, we understand the importance of keeping your business up-to-date with the latest technology solutions. That’s why we offer a seamless upgrade process to help you transition from your current Microsoft licenses to Business Premium.

By upgrading to Business Premium, you will gain access to a wide range of business solutions, cloud services, subscription plans, collaboration tools, and enterprise security. Our team of experts will guide you through each step of the upgrade process, ensuring a smooth transition and minimal disruption to your operations.

With Business Premium, you can take advantage of advanced collaboration features such as SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive, allowing your team to securely share files, collaborate on projects, and communicate effectively both internally and externally.

Furthermore, the subscription plans offered with Business Premium give you access to the full suite of Microsoft 365 apps, including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more. This enables you to create, edit, and share documents seamlessly, enhancing your productivity and enabling effective communication.

In addition to these collaboration tools, Business Premium also provides enterprise-level security measures, including advanced data security, Microsoft Intune integration for device management, multi-factor authentication for added security, and secure collaboration features.

Upgrade your Microsoft licenses to Business Premium with MPR IT Solutions and unlock the full potential of your business with enhanced collaboration capabilities, cloud services, and enterprise security. Contact us today to get started on your upgrade journey.

 


CRS Case Study

Background

CRS, established in 2008, has emerged as a prominent provider of comprehensive solutions for the railway infrastructure and construction industries. Over the years, CRS has achieved remarkable growth and has earned a reputation as a trusted and strategic labour supplier within the industry. With its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, CRS continues to play a vital role in supporting the development and success of railway projects across the region.

Problem

When CRS sought the expertise of MPR IT Solutions in 2019, it became apparent that their current hardware infrastructure was in dire need of an upgrade. The existing servers, workstations, UPS, and QNAP were no longer able to meet the growing demands of CRS’s operations. Recognising the importance of modern and efficient technology in today’s fast-paced business environment, MPR IT Solutions devised a comprehensive plan to revamp CRS’s hardware setup. By implementing state-of-the-art servers, high-performance workstations, reliable UPS systems, and advanced QNAP storage solutions, MPR IT Solutions ensured that CRS would have the cutting-edge technology necessary to support their operations and drive their business forward.

Solution

MPR IT Solutions conducted a thorough audit of CRS’s existing hardware infrastructure and identified the critical areas that required immediate upgrading. With meticulous attention to detail, MPR IT Solutions procured and installed a range of cutting-edge hardware components to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. The hardware upgrade included:

  • 3 HP Workstation Z2 G4 SFF
  • 9 labor hours dedicated to data-heavy workstations
  • 1 HPE ML350 Server Gen 10 with a 12 Core CPU and 32GB RAM, along with a redundant PSU
  • 8 480GB SSDs for efficient handling of operating systems, SQL databases, and data storage
  • 5 Microsoft Windows Server connection CALs 2019
  • 1 Windows Server 2016 with 16 cores
  • 5 days of labor for seamless installation and setup of the server
  • 2 Draytek Routers for the Ashford and Doncaster locations
  • 1 Cisco Small Business SG350-28P switch
  • 2 additional cabling for enhanced network connectivity
  • 1 server rack cabinet measuring 800 x 1000 to house the server and associated components
  • 1 QNAP Turbo NAS TS-451+ and 4 WD Red NAS Hard Drives for reliable and secure data storage
  • 1 APC Smart-UPS SMT 2200VA LCD RM with SmartConnect to safeguard against power interruptions

Through this comprehensive hardware upgrade, MPR IT Solutions ensured that CRS would have a robust and future-proof IT infrastructure to effectively support their operations.

Results

The hardware upgrade carried out by MPR IT Solutions has brought about transformative changes for the team at CRS. With the implementation of modern hardware and servers, CRS now operates in an environment that fosters seamless workflow and enhanced productivity. The upgraded infrastructure has significantly improved the team’s ability to carry out their work with ease and efficiency, enabling them to meet project deadlines more effectively and deliver exceptional results to their clients. The advanced technology also provided CRS with a competitive edge in the industry, allowing them to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to the evolving demands of their business.

Testimonial

“Since partnering with MPR IT Solutions, it has become abundantly clear that it was the right decision for CRS. Our dedicated account manager has been an invaluable resource, always available to address our needs and concerns promptly via phone or email. The MPR support team has consistently demonstrated their attentiveness and efficiency in handling every ticket, issue, and project, allowing us to focus on our core competencies without the burden of IT challenges. We wholeheartedly recommend MPR IT Solutions to any business seeking an IT support company that consistently goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional service and support to its customers. Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has truly set them apart in the industry.”

John Cheeseman, Managing Director


Canterbury Archaeological trust

Introduction:

Canterbury Archaeological Trust, a renowned archaeology group in the UK, has been partnering with MPR IT Solutions for over 12 years to meet its technology requirements. In 2015, as the charity expanded its staff and locations, the Trust faced a crucial decision regarding its outdated Exchange 2012 server. They had to choose between migrating to the Cloud or investing in another on-premise Exchange server. Limited funds, as is the case with many charities, added to the complexity of the decision-making process. This case study highlights how MPR IT Solutions helped Canterbury Archaeological Trust successfully deploy Microsoft 365, taking into account their unique needs and budget constraints.

The Challenge:

Canterbury Archaeological Trust needed to address the growing demands of its expanding organisation while also considering the cost implications. They required a solution that would facilitate seamless communication and collaboration among their staff at various locations. Furthermore, they needed to integrate their onsite ERP systems with Microsoft Cloud platforms to ensure uninterrupted workflow.

The Solution:

MPR IT Solutions, in close collaboration with the Trust, proposed a solution that perfectly met their requirements. The team secured a full E1 subscription to Microsoft 365 at no cost, making it an obvious choice from a financial standpoint. The migration plan was meticulously executed to minimise downtime and disruption for the staff.

The Results:

The migration from the old Exchange server to Microsoft 365 was executed seamlessly, with many staff members not even noticing the changeover. This ensured that the Trust’s operations continued smoothly without any major interruptions. Integrating the onsite ERP systems with Microsoft Cloud platforms was a critical aspect of the solution, and MPR IT Solutions ensured that email and communications were functioning as intended. The Trust was extremely pleased with the recommended solution and continue working with MPR IT for their Office licenses. Over the years, MPR IT has provided ongoing support and assistance, ensuring that the Trust benefits from the latest security features and enhancements within Office 365. The Trust appreciates the convenience of having a single point of contact in MPR IT for any questions or adjustments to their licenses, eliminating the need to contact Microsoft directly. This level of support and expertise has been invaluable to the Trust’s operations and has contributed to its continued success in the field of archaeology.

Conclusion:

The successful deployment of Microsoft 365 for Canterbury Archaeological Trust showcases the expertise and dedication of MPR IT Solutions in delivering tailored IT solutions to meet the specific needs of businesses. By securing a full E1 subscription to Microsoft 365 free of charge, MPR IT Solutions not only addressed the Trust’s financial constraints but also ensured a seamless transition to a more efficient and collaborative platform. The Trust continues to benefit from the ongoing support and expertise provided by MPR IT Solutions, enabling them to focus on their core work of archaeological research and preservation. If your company requires a reliable IT partner to help you navigate the complexities of technology


Email Deployment

Introduction:

In today’s fast-paced business environment, having a reliable and efficient email system is crucial for any organisation. When Mr Clutch Autocentres approached MPR IT Solutions for assistance with their email systems, we were ready to rise to the challenge. As part of a larger project to roll out a state-of-the-art customer CRM system, Mr Clutch needed to update their email delivery to improve operational efficiencies. With our expertise in Microsoft solutions and a deep understanding of their specific needs, we were able to provide a tailored and comprehensive solution.

Problem:

Mr Clutch Autocentres faced several challenges when it came to their email systems. Their secure WAN posed difficulties in implementing a new solution, and the marketing department had high demands for improved operational efficiencies. With 48 sites to roll out, it was clear that this project required a robust and scalable solution.

Solution:

After careful evaluation of Mr Clutch’s requirements, we determined that the best course of action was to migrate their email systems to Office 365. This decision offered a range of benefits, including improved functionality, easy-to-use centralised management, email tracking, filtering, and much more. Our team at MPR IT Solutions worked closely with Mr Clutch to ensure a smooth transition to Office 365, taking into account the unique needs of their head office and locked-down depots.

Results:

The deployment of Microsoft solutions by MPR IT Solutions has had a significant impact on Mr Clutch Autocentres. Not only did the transition to Office 365 improve operational efficiencies, but it also provided a more secure and reliable email system for the organisation. Our team worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth rollout to all 48 sites, taking into account the unique challenges posed by their secure WAN.

One of the key benefits of Office 365 was the easy-to-use centralised management. This allowed Mr Clutch to have complete control over their email systems, making it simple to make adjustments and track emails. The marketing department, in particular, was thrilled with the improved functionality and the ability to filter emails more effectively.

Another significant advantage of working with MPR IT Solutions was the level of support provided. Mr Clutch knew that they could rely on us for any IT support needs, without the hassle of contacting Microsoft directly. Our team was always available to answer questions and make any necessary adjustments to licenses.

Overall, the deployment of Microsoft solutions by MPR IT Solutions has been a resounding success for Mr Clutch Autocentres. The improved email delivery and operational efficiencies have had a positive impact on the organisation as a whole. We are proud to have been able to provide a tailored and comprehensive solution that meets their specific needs.

Conclusion:

MPR IT Solutions understands the importance of reliable and efficient email systems in today’s fast-paced business environment. Our deployment of Microsoft solutions for Mr Clutch Autocentres has proven to be a game-changer in improving their operational efficiencies and providing a secure and reliable email system. With our expertise in Microsoft solutions and our dedication to meeting our clients’ specific needs, we were able to successfully deliver a fully working Office 365 rollout to all 48 sites.

If your company is facing similar challenges with its email systems, MPR IT Solutions can provide the tailored and comprehensive solution you need. Our team of experts will work closely with you to understand your specific requirements and develop a plan that meets your unique needs. With our deep knowledge of Microsoft solutions, we can ensure a smooth transition and provide ongoing support to keep your systems running smoothly.

Don’t let outdated and low-function email systems hold your organisation back. Contact MPR IT Solutions today and let us help you take your email systems to the next level with Microsoft Solutions. Together, we can improve your operational efficiencies, enhance your security, and provide you with the reliable and efficient email system your business needs to thrive.


Office 365 deployment case study

Introduction:

Furlonger Specialist Cars, a high-end performance and classic car dealer based in Ashford, Kent, sought to upgrade their outdated POP3 email solution to accommodate their expanding business. With the opening of a second showroom and an increase in staff and service areas, Furlonger required a more manageable and reliable email system. MPR IT Solutions, their long-standing IT partner, proposed the migration to Office 365 as the best solution to address their needs.

Problem:

With the expansion of their operations, Furlonger’s old POP3 email solution was struggling to cope with the increased demands. The system, although reliable in the past, could no longer meet the scalability requirements. Furlonger needed a solution that would seamlessly integrate with their existing infrastructure and allow for easy manageability.

Solution:

MPR IT Solutions, experienced in handling complex migrations, quickly recognised the challenges associated with migrating large multi-gigabit PST files. They put together a team of Office 365 migration experts who devised a plan to seamlessly transfer Furlonger’s email system to the cloud-based Office 365 platform. The migration process was carefully executed to ensure minimal disruption to Furlonger’s business operations.

The benefits of migrating to Office 365 were numerous for Furlonger Specialist Cars. By transitioning from their old POP3 email solution to Office 365, they gained access to a range of advanced features that significantly improved their email system. One of the key advantages was the implementation of Exchange-backed emails, which enhanced reliability and security.

MPR IT Solutions, with their expertise in Office 365 migration, quickly and efficiently migrated Furlonger’s email system to the new platform. They demonstrated the new features and functionalities of Exchange-backed emails to Furlonger, showcasing the potential for increased productivity and efficiency. This allowed Furlonger to seamlessly continue their business operations without any interruption or downtime.

Furthermore, Furlonger’s licensing on Office 365 provided them with the opportunity to upgrade to the latest versions of Office at no additional cost. This not only ensured that they had access to the most up-to-date software but also expanded their IT capabilities. With the ability to easily scale their IT infrastructure, Furlonger was able to accommodate their growing business needs, which included the addition of a second showroom and an increase in staff and service areas.

Overall, the migration to Office 365 proved to be a successful solution for Furlonger Specialist Cars. They experienced improved reliability and security with Exchange-backed emails, and the ability to upgrade to the latest versions of Office enhanced their IT capabilities. With MPR IT Solutions’ expertise and seamless migration process, Furlonger was able to embrace cutting-edge technology and streamline their operations.

Results:

Since the migration to Office 365, Furlonger has experienced significant improvements in its email system and overall IT infrastructure. The transition was smooth, with no business interruption or downtime. The new system has provided Furlonger with greater manageability and reliability, allowing them to accommodate their expanding business with ease. Their IT capabilities have also grown, as they have expanded their user base from two to over ten employees, supporting their growth as a company.

Conclusion:

The successful migration of Furlonger’s email system to Office 365 by MPR IT Solutions has provided the company with a more robust and scalable solution. The advanced features and improved reliability of Office 365 have allowed Furlonger to streamline its operations and focus on its core business of selling high-end performance and classic cars. With the support of MPR IT Solutions, Furlonger has experienced rapid growth in its IT capabilities, enabling it to meet the demands of its expanding business.