Quickly Stepping in to Support a Manufacturer’s IT Support and Strategy Needs During COVID-19

Situation

A Bristol, Connecticut manufacturer has been designing and implementing material handling systems, conveyor systems, and automated warehouses for over 30 years. They collaborate closely with distribution and manufacturing clients to integrate solutions that utilize external material handling technologies while maximizing the profitability of their operations.

Challenge

The company’s internal IT staff person left for another opportunity, which forced them to look for an immediate replacement. They needed someone who had a wide breadth of experience and could hit the ground running. They turned to us for help.

Due to their accelerated timeline during the height of the pandemic, we worked with the manufacturer to determine which areas of support and IT infrastructure needed immediate attention and which parts could be implemented later. Then, we addressed their top priorities first, which included setting up remote access for all employees, setting up backups and upgrading old hardware and other IT components. 

Solution

Our first step was to set up remote management for all of their servers and workstations as well as a secure VPN. We also worked to strengthen their network infrastructure to improve the performance of their VPN. In addition, by migrating them to the cloud, we were able to provide them with a reliable and robust backup solution.

Lastly, since some of their IT equipment was reaching its end-of-life, we upgraded them to newer and more secure PCs, laptops, and servers. 

Results

By putting a remote work access system in place, the manufacturer could offer a work from home or hybrid work option to keep their staff safe during COVID-19. In addition, a strong backup solution will help keep them operational during any adverse events. Also, regularly replacing end-of-life IT equipment will help reduce their cybersecurity risks and prevent costly downtimes.