BACKGROUND
The FMG Support Group is the UK’s largest independent fleet performance company. The business had experienced considerable growth and consequently, a significant increase in staff numbers. As a result, sales staff utilising ‘hot desk’ facilities were finding it increasingly difficult to find vacant working areas with network connections. Overall productivity within the business was noticeably affected and a solution was required to resolve the sales team’s need for network connectivity whilst also considering the limited desk space available.
RECOMMENDATION
A wireless solution was found to meet the needs of the project by offering secure onsite network access to authorised users whilst lifting the user location restrictions imposed by a wired network infrastructure.
As the FMG Support operates in an ‘always-on’ 24 hour environment it was necessary to provide installation and testing without affecting connectivity to the existing infrastructure. SICL carried out a full site survey to ensure that the business premises would be suitable for wireless network communication and also to determine the most critical positioning for the access points ensuring maximum utilisation for wireless enabled users. The site survey also ensured that the solution could successfully be deployed in real-time on the live network without the need for downtime.
IMPLEMENTATION
Cisco 1200 wireless access points were installed to provide up to 54Mbps capability as well as WPA and WEP security protocols.
After deploying the solution SICL fully tested the network for speed, security and connectivity requirements. The solution provided future-proof flexibility and scalability, most notably to upgrade both user and geographical coverage to encompass an extension to the building that was under construction.
RESULTS
FMG Support has seen definite benefits to the business subsequent to the roll-out of the project. Without the restrictions of a wired infrastructure, authorised sales and IT staff are now able to work anywhere in the building and roam without losing network connectivity. As a result, the desk shortage problem has also been addressed and staff feel more comfortable that they no longer need to battle for a desk and network point or even take over another colleague’s desk during periods of absence.
“From the beginning SICL took a very encouraging view of the situation and successfully addressed all the objectives of the project. SICL deployed the solution quickly and smoothly and the staff were helpful throughout the project with planning, implementation and related advice.”
IT Manager - FMG Support Group.