Rapid Dispatch switch seamlessly to Strident

Rapid Dispatch have been established for more than 30 years. The Ipswich-based family-owned and run business provides next day and time critical deliveries in conjunction with APC Overnight. Deliveries for larger/heavier items are through alternative networks, international deliveries via airfreight along with providing a dedicated same day delivery service.

"As a parcel and freight management business it is, of course, essential that our computer systems are always up and running. We have 10 users and an on-premise server, so we need professional IT support," explains Ann-Marie Makepeace, Director at Rapid Dispatch.

Following various issues, Rapid Dispatch decided to move to Strident on the recommendation of another APC delivery service. "We chose Strident for a number of reasons; our business is reliant on the APC-DOS software and Strident's experience in supporting another APC business gave us confidence. In addition, we are keen to take advantage of Microsoft Teams and use its VoIP telephony in the future to further improve our operations. These are areas where Strident have proven experience and expertise."

A smooth delivery

"The move to Strident went very smoothly. Fortunately, Strident were able to make the initial site visit before the COVID-19 lockdown came into effect and gathered all the information they needed. We authorised our previous IT support company to provide Strident with all the necessary security information.

"From then on, Strident were able to do everything remotely and the transfer to their support has happened seamlessly in the background. It's still early days working with Strident but I'm very happy with the support they've provided so far," adds Ann-Marie.

Proven process

Chris Joberns, Managing Director at Strident, explains that they use a detailed and well-documented process to onboard new customers. "As an ISO 27001 business, we are used to carefully planning and documenting all our processes. This gives the customer confidence and ensures no vital steps are missed."

The Strident five-step process;

1. Strident send out a senior engineer to carry out a full site audit
2. The onboarding process document is completed to make sure all information is collected and allows the customer to add any further comments
3. A senior engineer site visit to install Strident's pro-active monitoring agent onto each device
4. Full security check, lock down the customer system and change all passwords to ensure the right system permissions are in place
5. Sign off the onboard process

To find out about moving your business to Strident, call Chris on 01473 835 280.