CASE STUDY #1

The Problem

Lennox Head Medical Centre had a mixture of server architecture that was in excess of 5 years old, out of warranty and beyond their already extended lifecycle. There was both Windows and Linux platforms that the site found difficult to maintain without outside help. They also had a range of demands that their existing system could not handle effectively.

·   Backup process seems complicated for users
·   Disparity in desktop OS and internet security apps
·   Consolidation of IT documentation
·   Scanning of medical records
· Reliability / Availability / Disaster Recovery / Ease of use
·   Compliance
·   Security
·   Considering migration to either Best Practice or MD3 in conjunction with server upgrade

The Challenge

To complete the implementation of a new hardware and software platform whilst keeping the practice operational, minimizing downtime and disruption.

The Solution

By leveraging the existing server architecture it was possible to migrate the active directory structure by performing a swing migration to a full Windows 2003 SBS domain. The servers we able to be run in parallel allowing a rollback position in the event of any unforeseen problems. Another advantage of a swing migration is that there is virtually no time restriction allowing much of the project work to be performed in normal working hours minimizing cost and inconvenience to the customer. Downtime is restricted to the time taken to reboot a server which can be scheduled to again minimize inconvenience.

With the migration complete to the new hard ware and SBS domain, the redundant servers cold be taken offline but again were kept available as a fallback should there be any issue.

The Result

Consolidating the server platform by reducing 3 servers to 2 has brought about a number of benefits. Reducing overall power consumption has lead to increased uptime of existing UPS equipment and reduced the carbon footprint. Eliminating a Linux mail server has produced a unified Windows domain. The site has also seen improved secure remote access to all business line applications including collaborative tools such as email and SharePoint services. Improved reporting and alerting increased performance and productivity.

Sophos SBE 2.5 Computer Security Suite has been deployed to protect desktops servers and email (Exchange) from virus, malware/spyware and spam.

All of the clients’ requirements were addressed resulting in a harmonious productive environment where the IT infrastructure is an asset to their business.