case studies - how it is helping business
Electrical Training Trust (NI) (2001 – present)
Solution: Hardware, Software, Training & Communications
Summary:
With 12 permanent staff, ETT delivers specialist and general training courses for the electrical contracting industry and other construction industry related specialists. They undertake the management and organisation of the JIB Electrical Modern Apprenticeship which is one of the largest Modern Apprenticeship by industry sector in Northern Ireland with an accrued number of participants currently of 1400 and provide the AM2 Skills Testing at its facilities in Ballymena.
MCC were introduced in 2001 to ETT in a very small capacity to repair a few minor computer and printer problems. MCC have become responsible for:
- Networks
- Server
- Data Management System
- Handheld Solutions
- Training (Accredited and non Accredited)
- Broadband
- Emails and Internet
- Securities
- Backups
- Website
- Sage Accountancy
- Computers
- Peripherals
Hardware
The problem – In 2001 ETT asked MCC to check out the network as it was failing regularly with computers freezing as well as intermittent internet and email problems.
The solution – MCC built and supplied computer systems to replace the weaker systems and set about stabilising the network and putting backups and security systems in place. As an ongoing progression, new computers, a server, printers, scanners and broadband routers have been introduced over the last few years. Handheld devices have also been introduced which operate across their network.
The results – ETT now have an evolving hardware solution that can be relied on to do the job of work it is meant to do with the peace of mind that the securities and backups are there.
Training
The problem – It was important that time was not wasted at the keyboard using various applications that have become industry standards for most businesses such as MS Office and Sage.
The solution – At each step of the way, where necessary, MCC have trained the employees to IC3, ECDL and MOS standards and in Sage for accounts.
The results – As a result the ETT employees are now competent and more confident in the use of their computers. Time is not wasted unnecessarily providing more time for clients and business.
Software
– Database
The problem – ETT had duplicating database systems based on both computer and paper. These systems needed to be brought into one all encompassing system and a handheld remote monitoring system created.
The solution – After thorough planning a Data Management System (DMS) with backup integration was developed which fulfilled all the criteria set out. The DMS system allowed users at different security levels to enter and retrieve relevant information across the network, also allowing live time reporting. Handhelds were synchronised with the DMS so that there was no need for duplication of data. The DMS continues to grow and solutions continue to be "bolted on" as required by ETT.
The results – Removal of duplication of work processes and live time reporting has promoted a huge step towards time reduction at the keyboard across the whole organisation.
– Website
The problem – ETT needed a professional website which would promote the organisation professionally to future clients and supply information to their current clients.
The solution – MCC alongside ETT defined the business objectives that the website would have to meet. A website was designed and built and finally www.ett-ni.org was hosted on MCC's own dedicated server. Visitor statistics that offer important marketing insight are monitored regularly by MCC.
The results – The ETT now have a website that has a professional look and feel, and is built using web standards making it accessible and search engine friendly.
Communications
The problem – ETT needed Internet access for their network requiring one internet account with one charge.
The solution – In 2001 MCC set-up access to the internet using ISDN technology however with the onset of broadband MCC immediately upgraded the network.
The results – ETT have one internet connection supporting their complete network, providing them with both a reliable and cost effective service.
Why Choose MCC?
- Any job big or small.
- A solution to fit your budget.
- A one stop shop for all IT needs.
- We work at your pace.
Customer Comments
“As well as developing our software and network systems, MCC also provide us with accredited training programs such as ECDL, IC3, MOS and Sage. As our use of Information technology advances it is reassuring to know that MCC are alongside and supporting us at every stage.” Derek Thompson (www.ett-ni.org)
