Build it better

Team performance improves

Having determined their needs, Brad and Steve looked for solutions. This ‘business-first’ approach meant they could focus on solving their specific business issues as a whole, rather than approaching the problem from a ‘technology-first’ angle.

“We now have a Telstra BizEssentials Everyday plan. We also use Microsoft Office® 365 on our tablets with Telstra Mobile Broadband, which also includes the Lync Video Conferencing System and a significant component of our online storage for backup,” states Brad.

By adopting Office 365, everyone in the company gained access to the latest versions of the documents they needed to best serve their clients. Having the Lync Video Conferencing System meant that communication between staff was also greatly enhanced. The business then continued to look to Telstra to replace its existing hardware.

“We now have an end-to-end Telstra service with our routers and communications equipment here in the office with our landlines, with our ADSL account, with our modems and everything else,” says Brad.

Introducing those communications systems meant that personnel could reliably collaborate with clients and access the different document management systems. Steve and Brad use Telstra Mobile Broadband to access the Internet when on site while relying on a fixed ADSL service in their main office.

Having one provider has benefits

Steve notes that the improved reliability of the new communications solution is a major benefit for the business.

“It is really important that our new solution doesn’t require someone to come out regularly at short notice to provide software updates and other technical support. The effect of this improvement on our business is significant,” Steve explains.

A single bill also made life easier by reducing admin time (and related costs) plus giving a clear picture of where the money was going.

“In addition, the business has been able to manage its energy costs much more effectively since it disposed of the redundant equipment in its office,” says Brad.

The new services are also more flexible. The company has increased its bandwidth arrangements as needed and can easily increase the number of Office 365 licences it uses depending on how its staffing situation changes.

The effect on our business of this [IT] improvement is significant. 

— Steve Wheelhouse

Insights from Telstra's Business Group Managing Director

A fast and reliable internet connection is crucial for modern businesses. It’s not just about email, web browsing and social media. Increasingly, businesses rely on their internet connections in order to access applications and other services.

Telstra’s App Marketplace is a great way for businesses to get some of the latest mobile applications for business that may help save time and boost their productivity.

And there are some huge cost savings to be had as well.

Will Irving, Telstra Business Group Managing Director explains: “The Telstra Apps Marketplace is designed to deliver a simple online experience for our customers that will take the complexity out of choosing and managing apps from different vendors, so they can find the right apps for their business.”