Supply and install 20 seat server solution for not for profit group

We are an organisation that works with people with special needs. We have an office which is expanding and at the moment and now need to move from desktop sharing to a file / mail server system to create a secure and reliable system. At this stage we ar looking at a DELL T410 server and Microsoft Small Business Server 2011 package with 20 seats. We would also require some back up mechanism and for the server to be configured and installed with the existing desktops configured and connected to the server, set up an Exchange Server etc etc. Contact Len Turner Representing St Micheals Home Assist Brisbane 0409 235 162

Reply by from Community Data Solutions on Thursday, 15 September, 2011 - 14:57

Hi Len, Personally I recommend not-for-profits avoid spending large amounts of money on IT infrastructure when there are many cloud services that typically offer zero up front cost services. These normally have lower ongoing costs and less administration time / costs. Some examples to investigate: - Google Apps (hosted email, document collaboration, shared calendars etc.) - replacement for Exchange Server which is free for many non-profits. - Dropbox (web based document sharing) Our company also offers a CRM specifically for non profits to record and report on client data across multiple sectors, including Alternative / Respite Care. Feel free to visit our website and contact us if you want any further details. Cheers, Chris Director Community Data Solutions http://www.communityds.com.au/

Reply by Neil McLachlan from Co Serve Consulting on Thursday, 15 September, 2011 - 15:36

I was about to offer something along the lines of the advice provided by Chris (of Community Data Solutions) but I won't bother other than to endorse the general sentiments expressed. Another avenue to consider is licensing Office 365, which can be either entirely cloud based or partly cloud based depending on need. While there's nothing wrong with the configuration you're considering it seems to me your organisation would benefit from completing a formal IT needs assessment process. There are several firms offering such services here including ours. Regards Neil McLachlan | e :: neil@coserve.com.au | t :: 02 4782 6917 | f :: 02 4782 7815

Reply by Grant Laing from Blended IT Solutions on Thursday, 15 September, 2011 - 21:23

Hi Len, We have done many of these first server implementations and while cloud based options can be good and offer flexibilty, sometimes they are not the way forward for the first server upgrade. There is a lot to consider with this and most of all is the user training and confidence with putting all the files in one place, this is why onsite servers are usually best for the first upgrade. The SBS solution you have mentioned will allow you to grow for many years, and with the right speced server as the base, this will allow you to explore your IT needs as you move forward. At this stage you will be able to get all the software you need through donortec, for this solution, but the hardware will cost especially to make sure it is speced right. I am more than happy to discuss with you as small business implementations like this are a core of our business. If you want to discuss please send me an email or call. Thanks Grant

Reply by Aaron Hawke from Xari Group Pty Ltd on Monday, 19 September, 2011 - 14:44

Hi Len This is definitely something we can help you with. Instead of trying to get all of the details over the internet, would I be able to come out and meet with you to discuss your requirements? That way we can ensure we're giving you the best possible advice, and will be able to answer any questions you have straight away. Thanks! Kate Simmonds IT Manager Xari Group 0404 661 661 www.xarigroup.com.au

Reply by from King Computer Solutions on Saturday, 8 October, 2011 - 00:03

If looking at a cloud option, consider Microsoft 365 which provides online exchange, lync, office licenses and other features for a similar price to google apps.