RAA-Case Study
- 1. Build Reliability, Security and Consolidate Your IT Infrastructure with Intivix IT Services for Architects & Engineers Case Study: Richard Avelar & Associates At a Glance Richard Avelar & Associate (RAA), a leading Northern California Architecture, Forensics and Design firm founded in 1976, contacted Intivix in 1999 to help architect the corporate network, PC, and Internet infrastructure for their transition to Internet-based computing. RAA realized early on that the Internet emergence had dramatically changed the way companies run their operations and wanted to make a strategic move to leverage this shift. The Context For several years, RAA had been using a Windows 95 network architecture directory connected to the Internet with no firewalls and minimal security infrastructure. Following Intivix¡¯s recommendations, RAA purchased needed equipment, including Windows Servers, desktops, plotters, and an email messaging server. Intivix engineers methodically configured and installed the new equipment and created comprehensive documentation for the end users. To protect the RAA network, Intivix installed a stateful inspection firewall, centralized Antivirus software, and backup software. Intivix also integrated and centralized AutoCAD files and applications, easing the sharing of critical drawings information among multiple users. RAA employees are able to seamlessly access information on their network while reaping the benefits of an Internet-connected, client/server Windows infrastructure. Intivix worked with vendors to ensure a stable and robust environment for employees. Current Status Since 1999, Intivix has been serving RAA with scheduled weekly maintenance visits and on-call support. Over the years, RAA¡¯s network has grown at a tremendous rate. During this time, Intivix has helped RAA double the number of networked PCs, added two additional Windows servers for billing and backups, printer tracking, desktop management software and private cloud hosted exchange email. The Wide Area Network (WAN) has grown to link together a remote branch office and telecommuters via Virtual Private Network (VPN), all with Intivix¡¯s knowledgeable support. The Results Intivix has assisted RAA with a variety of projects where specialized knowledge was needed, such as Exchange messaging server upgrades, as well as plotter, server and firewall enhancements. In addition, Intivix helped RAA reduce their number of servers through virtualization technologies, which has helped to cut hardware, cooling and energy costs. RAA and Intivix have now successfully partnered for more than 14 years. Intivix engineers have kept the RAA network working smoothly, upgrading all PC¡¯s to Windows 7, managed migrations and server OS upgrades all while avoiding all of the worm and virus-related troubles that have befallen other networks. Using a combination of off-site testing and timely automated installation methods, Intivix keeps RAA¡¯s network up-to-date with the latest Windows updates and 3rd party patches on desktops and servers. Intivix engineers also monitor network performance, answer employee computer questions, manage AutoCAD and train users on how best to leverage the company computing resources.