RedR UK The Importance of having IT that works

Introducing RedR UK

This session will look at… -Why RedR needed to outsource their IT -The key features to choosing the right PARTNER -Example of how this has worked for RedR -Tips on how to keep things working smoothly

RedR UK is a small organisation deploying in country in difficult situations with limited resources requiring support across a broad range of technical issues, because we … ‘require(s) specific expertise from multiple IT personnel. Website development and administration, network management and security, helpdesk support, information access and storage policies, mobile communications, database development and maintenance, training and technology strategy are all distinct fields – one person cannot be expected to excel in all of them’ Cyber Security for International Aid Agencies – A Primer (Security Management Initiative, Geneva Centre for Security Policy) Why RedR needed to outsource their IT

The key features to choosing the right PARTNER Qualities Responsiveness Technical expertise Flexibility Helpfulness Value for money (not necessarily the cheapest) Professionalism Element of philanthropy How do you know your potential supplier has these qualities SLA References, make the effort to go out and see a live site Trial Period

Issue/s From a single user using BGAN, Iridium phone and a single laptop to 40 user office Helpdesk – International Time Zones Interim Resolution Peer-peer network with resource access form London Out of hours in house and contractor support Long Term Resolution WAN with local server and dedicated remote virtual desktop server Example of how this has worked for RedR

Tips on how to keep things working smoothly Keep things simple Flexibility works both ways, Educating end users, limits of available technology Doing the best within the limits of available resources Monitor your IT service provider Be Proactive, keep engaged, your systems are mission critical to your organisation Communicate Communicate Communicate

Q & A Our IT is outsourced to RCS London