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 In 2015, as the charity expanded its staff and locations, the Trust faced a crucial decision regarding its outdated Exchange 2012 server.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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In early 2020, having a flexible communication system was crucial for success in small businesses. Crowther Creative, a long-term customer of MPR IT Solutions, faced a significant challenge when their existing phone system proved to be inflexible for supporting remote working. The closure of their office further complicated matters, as redirecting business phone lines to remote working locations became a task. MPR IT Solutions stepped in with a solution that not only addressed these challenges but also proved to be a cost-effective communication service.

Crowther Creative struggled with an outdated traditional phone system that lacked the flexibility required for remote working. This system made it difficult to redirect business phone lines to remote locations, hindering productivity and communication. Furthermore, the maintenance costs associated with the traditional phone system were high, reducing the company’s ability to allocate resources to other critical areas.

With a trusted and established relationship with MPR IT Solutions, Crowther Creative turned to them to upgrade their phone system. MPR IT Solutions offered fully hosted VoIP phone system (voice over internet protocol) that provided the flexibility required for remote working. By partnering with MPR IT Solutions, Crowther Creative could consolidate its IT and phone system needs, simplifying its support process. This close working relationship helped foster a stronger partnership between the two businesses, allowing for seamless communications and problem-solving.

MPR IT Solutions implemented a tailored solution for Crowther Creative that included the following features:

1. Hosted VoIP Telephone Extensions: MPR IT Solutions provided Crowther Creative with seven VoIP-hosted telephone extensions. These extensions included 2000 minutes per user for combined landline and mobile usage. This allowed employees to easily communicate with clients and colleagues, regardless of their location.

2. Auto Attendant: The hosted phone system included an auto-attendant feature, which allowed callers to be directed to the appropriate department or individual without the need for human intervention. This streamlined the call-handling process and improved customer satisfaction.

3. Advanced Call Handling Hunt Groups: MPR IT Solutions implemented advanced call-handling hunt groups, ensuring that incoming calls were efficiently distributed among available employees. This helped to reduce wait times and improve overall call management.

4. Soft Phone for PC Install: Employees were provided with softphone installations on their PCs, enabling them to make and receive calls directly from their computers. This feature proved especially useful for remote working, as employees could easily stay connected without the need for additional hardware.

5. Go Integrator for Application Integration: MPR IT Solutions integrated the hosted phone system with Crowther Creative’s existing applications,(including cloud services) such as customer relationship management (CRM) software. This integration facilitated seamless communication and improved productivity by allowing employees to access customer information directly from the phone system.

6. Call Recording with 180-day Retention: The hosted phone system included call recording capabilities with a retention period of 180 days. This feature was essential for Crowther Creative, as it allowed them to review and analyse customer interactions, ensuring quality control and compliance with industry regulations.

7. Yealink Desktop Phone: MPR IT Solutions provides Yealink desktop phones, offering a user-friendly interface and high-quality audio for clear and efficient communication.

8. Yealink DECT Phone: In addition to desktop phones, MPR IT Solutions also supplied Yealink DECT phones, allowing employees to have wireless communication capabilities throughout the office.

9. PC Client Only Extensions: Two PC client-only extensions were set up, providing employees with the flexibility to make and receive calls directly from their computers.

10. Plantronics USB Headsets: To further enhance communication capabilities, MPR IT Solutions supplied Plantronics USB headsets that could be used with either the desk phone or the PC. These headsets ensured clear audio and improved comfort during long calls.

By partnering with MPR IT Solutions and implementing a hosted VoIP phone system, Crowther Creative experienced significant improvements in its communication capabilities. The key impacts of the solution were as follows:

1. Enhanced Flexibility: The hosted phone system allowed employees to easily redirect business phone lines to remote working locations, ensuring seamless communication even during office closures. This flexibility improved productivity and enabled employees to work efficiently from anywhere.

2. Cost-Effectiveness: The transition to a hosted phone system resulted in cost savings for Crowther Creative. The elimination of high maintenance costs associated with the traditional phone system allowed the company to allocate resources to other critical areas of its business. The consolidated monthly invoice from MPR IT Solutions for all support, phone lines, and internet connections allowed for effective budgeting and cost management.

3. Improved Customer Service: The auto attendant feature and advanced call handling hunt groups ensured that incoming calls were efficiently directed to the appropriate department or individual. This reduced wait times, improved call management, and ultimately enhanced customer satisfaction.

4. Seamless Integration: The integration of the hosted phone system with Crowther Creative’s existing applications, such as CRM software, improved productivity by allowing employees to access customer information directly from the phone system. This streamlined communication and eliminated the need for manual data entry.

5. Quality Control and Compliance: The call recording capabilities with a retention period of 180 days allowed Crowther Creative to review and analyse customer interactions. This ensured quality control and compliance with industry regulations, leading to improved customer service and adherence to legal requirements.

6. User-Friendly Equipment: The Yealink desktop phones and DECT phones provided by MPR IT Solutions offered a user-friendly interface and high-quality audio, ensuring clear and efficient communication. The Plantronics USB headsets further enhanced communication capabilities, providing clear audio and improved comfort during calls.

By partnering with MPR IT Solutions and implementing a hosted VoIP phone system, Crowther Creative successfully addressed its communication challenges and achieved significant benefits. The flexible nature of the hosted phone system allowed for seamless communication during remote working and local office closures, improving productivity and employee efficiency. The cost savings from transitioning to a hosted phone system allowed Crowther Creative to allocate resources to other critical areas of their business. The integration of the phone system with existing applications streamlined communication and improved productivity. Additionally, the call recording capabilities ensured quality control and compliance with industry regulations.

Overall, MPR IT Solutions’ expertise and tailored IT solutions enabled Crowther Creative to enhance its communication capabilities, improve customer service, and achieve cost savings. This case study serves as a testament to MPR IT Solutions’ ability to provide effective and customised solutions to meet the specific needs of businesses.

In today’s fast-paced business environment, having reliable and efficient IT support is crucial for the smooth operation of any organisation. DAD UK Limited, a leading distributor of mailboxes and the UK’s only manufacturer of Certified secure post boxes, recognised the need for a robust IT support system to enhance their business operations. This case study outlines how DAD UK partnered with MPR IT Solutions to revolutionise its IT support contract and streamline its business processes.

DAD UK Limited, a part of the Decayeux group, has been a reputable player in the industry since 1996. With an office in Kent, they cater to the needs of the UK, Ireland, and the Channel Islands. Before engaging with MPR IT, DAD UK relied on an IT support package that operated on hourly billing. This approach made it challenging for them to predict their monthly IT support budget, leading to financial uncertainty and hindered growth.

DAD UK faced several challenges with its existing IT support model. The unpredictable costs associated with hourly billing, coupled with the inability to forecast their IT support budget, posed significant obstacles to their business planning. Moreover, limited accessibility to IT support staff resulted in delayed resolution of critical IT issues, causing disruptions in their daily operations.

Recognising the unique needs of DAD UK, MPR IT Solutions proposed a fully inclusive support package to address their challenges. The MPR IT team conducted a thorough review of DAD UK’s business requirements and existing IT systems. With a clear understanding of their needs, MPR IT worked closely with DAD UK to seamlessly transition to outsourced IT support.

The comprehensive IT support contract offered by MPR IT allowed DAD UK to have full access to its IT support team. This ensured that any IT issues could be resolved promptly, minimising downtime and disruptions to their operations. The new support structure provided a sense of security for DAD UK, knowing that their staff had a reliable and efficient IT support system in place.

The partnership between DAD UK and MPR IT Solutions has yielded significant benefits for DAD UK. Firstly, the transition from hourly billing to a monthly fixed-rate support cost has provided DAD UK with financial stability and predictability. They can now effectively budget for their IT support, allowing them to allocate resources towards enhancing their IT infrastructure throughout the year.

Secondly, the accessibility and responsiveness of the MPR IT support desk have greatly improved the reaction and solution speeds for DAD UK’s IT issues. Any employee can now easily reach out to the support team, enabling faster resolution of problems and minimising any impact on daily operations.

Lastly, the collaboration between DAD UK and MPR IT has fostered a closer working relationship. MPR IT is not just a service provider but a true partner to DAD UK. This close partnership has resulted in better communication and collaboration between the employees of both companies, leading to a more cohesive and efficient work environment.

Emmanuel Charbonnel, Director of DAD UK, shares his positive experience with MPR IT Solutions: “Moving to a ‘Monthly Fixed Rate’ support cost from a ‘Pay as you Use’ scheme has improved our IT support structure in many ways. Firstly, there are no hidden surprises at the end of the month with invoices. We know what our bill will be and can budget accordingly, allowing us to invest in our IT infrastructure during the year. Secondly, any of our employees can now contact the MPR support desk, which in turn, improves the reaction and solution speeds. And lastly, it has resulted in a closer working environment between all employees across our two companies, making MPR a true partner.”

DAD UK’s decision to partner with MPR IT Solutions for their IT support needs has proven to be a transformative step for their business. With a fully inclusive support contract, DAD UK now enjoys financial stability, enhanced accessibility to IT support, and improved reaction and solution speeds. The partnership between DAD UK and MPR IT Solutions has created a close working relationship, facilitating better collaboration and efficiency within the organisation. If your company is seeking tailored IT solutions to meet your specific business needs, consider the success story of DAD UK and MPR IT Solutions as a testament to the value of a reliable and efficient IT support system.