RIFT

Connecting Colleagues with Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Azure

Project Summary

Having recently expanded internationally and establishing an office in Bulgaria, RIFT trusted us to advise on the best method to maintain excellent communication with the new site, as well as improving productivity at their Kent based head office with the introduction of Microsoft Teams. Furthermore, we assisted them with integrating their new European office without the need for onsite servers via the implementation of the cloud-based services utilising Microsoft Azure.

These introductions have seen RIFT thoroughly embrace technology with recognition that this focus and investment has enabled them to scale and expand accordingly as their business grows.

The Challenge

RIFT have been a client of Select Technology for over 5 years. We support their in-house IT team ensuring their IT department has the additional expertise and strategy support to get the most out of technology. During one of our regular catch-ups with the IT Manager, it was apparent that RIFT wanted to increase productivity and ease of communication throughout their business, especially with the opening of a new remote office. With security and client confidentiality being paramount in their line of work, we recognised that they required a solution that would enable them to share documents and information securely, whilst collaborating on a daily basis.

The second challenge was ensuring effective connectivity with their new office. They required a cost-efficient back-up solution without impacting their existing IT infrastructure. Equally, they wanted to ensure that instant and secure communication was in place so both office locations could work together without affecting productivity.

The introduction of Microsoft 365 with the help of Select Technology has changed the face of our business and has ensured we are well-equipped to grow our business efficiently. As RIFT’s IT Manager it is imperative that I can trust Select to recommend the most appropriate technology and solutions, allowing me to get on with the day to day running of the business. They have gained this trust through ensuring they know our business goals and have delivered over and above our expectations
David Cox, IT Manager

The Solution

Our technical team recognised that the tools and programs within Microsoft 365 would greatly improve these areas and featured excellent benefits to improve productivity through collaboration. In particular, Microsoft Teams offered the perfect solution for improving communication across both the Kent based headquarters and the new international office. It is much quicker and easier to use than email, whilst having the same level of security and encryption. Since implementation the team have reported that it has completely revolutionised how they work by streamlining departmental communication. Being able to share files and disseminate information between colleagues quickly and easily has led to great productivity and improved knowledge sharing.

In terms of the new Bulgarian office, it was clear to our team that a cloud- based server would offer the most secure and productive solution, avoiding the impact of installing onsite servers. Microsoft Azure was the obvious choice to enable effective and secure connectivity. This has allowed for a quick set-up without the need for extensive infrastructure investment.

What’s more, is the total Microsoft 365 package has been embraced by the company, with other tools such as Power BI now being utilised to bring data together in a way they weren’t able to before.

About the Client

Privately owned and proudly independent, the RIFT Group has been helping clients get the most from their money since 1999. From claiming tax refunds for individuals through to helping small business innovators claim R&D Tax Credits, we combine world-class expertise with inexhaustible passion. Based in Kent, the RIFT Group is a safety net and trusted adviser to businesses, organisations and individuals across the UK.

How can we help you?

If you have a similar challenge, we can help. Find out more about our IT consultancy services or get in touch to chat it through.

Get in touch