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Garry Ackerman

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Why customers need system integrators now more than ever

Why customers need system integrators now more than ever

Customers are being sold an appealing idea: pick one vendor, get one stack, and everything will be simpler. It sounds tidy. It also happens to be mostly wrong.

Microsoft, Google and AWS do provide the foundations for modern cloud journeys. But their “default” components, across compute, storage, security and analytics, are designed to be broad, not bespoke. What looks neat on a product roadmap often fails the moment a real business with legacy systems, regulatory constraints and unique SLAs tries to fit inside it.

That’s where the row of inconvenient truths begins. First: best-of-breed rarely comes from a single supplier. Second: customers don’t have the time to sit through dozens of vendor pitches and workshops. Third: every vendor now wants direct access to your people, which turns buying cycles into a full-time job for customers who already don’t have the time.

Here’s the practical consequence: customers are paying in time, complexity and suboptimal outcomes. Vendors push for second meetings, workshops, PoCs and “deep dives” – each of which looks like progress on a slide deck, and each of which consumes hours that no IT leader really has. Vendors aren’t evil here; they’re doing what vendor organisations do. But customers can’t be treated as a marketing channel.

That’s where system integrators, not as middlemen but as orchestrators, become indispensable. We’ve spent years aggregating real-world experience across industries and vendors. That aggregation isn’t academic: it’s how you avoid building a cloud that looks great on paper and collapses under real workloads. We take the time-sink off the customer and get vendors to compete on merit, not on who shouts the loudest.

What should change?

  1. Treat vendor engagement as managed work. Customers shouldn’t have to host every vendor’s workshop. A trusted integrator should filter, prioritise, and run the vendor conversations on the customer’s behalf. That reduces friction and surfaces only the relevant options.
  1. Design for fit, not for brand consistency. Best-of-breed components stitched together by experience produce better outcomes than a single-vendor bundle that overlooks corner cases – compliance, latency, backup/restore realities, and cost optimisation.
  1. Force vendors to justify inclusion with real value, not roadmap promises. If a vendor’s solution doesn’t demonstrably reduce risk, cost, or time-to-market for your specific use case, it shouldn’t be in the architecture.

This is uncomfortable for the vendor-first narrative because it removes the comfortable notion that one supplier can do everything. It’s also uncomfortable for resellers who prefer simple deals. But it’s good for customers and ultimately, for vendors who build genuinely competitive solutions.

At Argantic we’ve started doing that heavy lifting. We engage vendors on behalf of our clients, explain the investment profile and the role each product genuinely plays, and make sure everybody understands that modern solutions are, by design, multi-vendor. The result is fewer workshops for customers, quicker decisions, and solutions that actually deliver.

If you’re still letting vendors guide the agenda, you’re outsourcing your architecture to whoever can schedule the most meetings. That’s not strategy, it’s convenience dressed as progress.

Customers deserve better. They need partners who will take the meetings, vet the options, and fight for a best-fit solution. System integrators who accept that role aren’t just useful – they’re essential.

Rethinking security: Why on-premise Is no longer enough

Rethinking security: Why on-premise is no longer enough

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Traditional companies often cling to on-premise infrastructure, believing it to be the safest solution. However, recent evidence suggests that the paradigm is shifting, with cloud-based security solutions proving to be more robust and adaptive.

Argantic CEO Garry Ackerman warns that maintaining an on-premise infrastructure is increasingly risky, given the growing complexity of security threats. “Many traditional companies remain sceptical about migrating to the cloud, adhering to the belief that on-premise solutions offer superior security.”

“This perception is outdated and potentially dangerous. Traditional on-premise setups, while familiar, lack the agility and comprehensive monitoring capabilities that the cloud provides. It’s only a matter of time before on-premise infrastructure becomes vulnerable to successful cyberattacks, as businesses struggle to maintain the necessary skills and monitoring resources in-house,” he explains.

Contrary to on-premise setups, cloud platforms allow for the simultaneous monitoring of all surface areas. Telemetry data is fed into a central platform, utilising artificial intelligence (AI) to detect and mitigate even the most sophisticated cyberattacks. The cloud’s ability to monitor and respond in real-time offers a significant advantage in the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Ackerman points to real-world success stories to underscore the effectiveness of cloud-based security solutions. “Argantic has demonstrated seamless failover capabilities to Azure’s disaster recovery environment during ransomware attacks, resulting in zero data loss. These cases highlight the transformative power of the cloud in securing business continuity and mitigating the impact of unforeseen events.”

While alternatives like hosting specific machines locally exist, Ackerman emphasises the compelling offerings from hyper-scalers like Microsoft Azure. He says these cloud giants have made substantial investments in infrastructure, security, and reliability, making them ideal choices for businesses seeking resilient disaster recovery solutions.

“The effectiveness of Azure’s cloud data centre model, as experienced by one of Argantic’s clients, serves as a testament to the capabilities of leading cloud providers. In a world where data is critical and resilience is paramount, the cloud proves to be an indispensable asset for businesses looking to secure their future,” he concludes.

Customer First

Independence means client first

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Argantic has announced that it is once again a fully independent Level 2 BEE entity, marking a new chapter in its journey to deliver highly personalised and agile digital transformation solutions. While no longer part of the Turrito group, Argantic will continue to maintain a strong strategic partnership with Turrito to ensure clients benefit from the combined expertise and capabilities of both organisations.

This step allows Argantic to sharpen its focus on its clients, providing tailored solutions and direct engagement that extend well beyond the traditional vendor-client relationship. As an independent entity, Argantic now has even greater flexibility to respond to each client’s unique needs to deliver a broad range of advanced cloud, security, automation, and modern workplace solutions.

“We realised that maintaining our Level 2 BEE status within a corporate structure would be virtually impossible, so we reacquired our shareholding to give us the freedom to operate as an independent business,” explains Garry Ackerman, CEO of Argantic.

“This move ensures that all client relationships and engagements remain directly with Argantic, while still keeping our collaborative partnership with Turrito intact. Clients can expect the same trusted solutions and professional services they’ve always relied on – now delivered with an even more personal touch.”

The decision is aligned with Argantic’s strategy to deepen relationships with existing clients, uncover new opportunities, and position itself as a long-term digital transformation partner.

“Our independence means our sole focus is on our clients’ priorities – whether that’s optimising the cloud, strengthening security, or unlocking automation opportunities. Clients can always engage directly with us, knowing we’ll remain their trusted partner for the long term. Our goal is to help our customers innovate, grow, and thrive in the modern digital era,” he concludes.

Managing devices in the age of AI

Managing devices in the age of AI: Why Microsoft Intune is essential for IT security

With artificial intelligence (AI) changing the way industries work, IT teams are under increasing pressure to find a balance between embracing new technologies and keeping systems safe. While AI promises to enhance efficiency and decision-making, its rise also amplifies data security challenges, particularly as organisations grapple with managing devices and tools that access sensitive corporate information.

AI tools, from generative models to predictive analytics platforms, are transforming workflows across sectors. However, these advancements come with a caveat: the same technologies that streamline operations can inadvertently expose critical vulnerabilities.

The risk of data leakage, either through misconfigured tools or unsanctioned device access, looms large, forcing IT leaders to rethink how they manage endpoints in an AI-driven world.

The problem is compounded by shadow IT, where employees use unapproved applications to boost productivity. While these tools may seem harmless, they can bypass security protocols, making organisations susceptible to breaches. High-profile incidents, like sensitive information being unintentionally exposed via AI tools, underscore the need for robust safeguards.

Why device management is the first line of defence

Managing the devices that access corporate data is no longer optional; it’s essential. Each smartphone, laptop, or tablet connected to the enterprise network represents a potential entry point for cyber threats. Without proper oversight, these endpoints can become vectors for unauthorised data access, malware, or phishing attacks.

This is where Microsoft Intune comes into play. As a leading endpoint management solution, Intune enables IT departments to monitor, secure, and control devices across the organisation. By providing a unified platform for managing user access and enforcing security policies, Intune helps ensure that corporate data remains protected, regardless of where it’s accessed.

Benefits of Microsoft Intune for modern IT security

  1. Centralised device control
    Intune provides IT administrators with a single dashboard to manage all devices within the organisation. This visibility is crucial in the AI era, where employees often use multiple devices for work.
  2. Conditional access policies
    With Intune, organisations can set up granular access controls, ensuring that only compliant devices and authenticated users can interact with sensitive data. This reduces the risk of AI tools inadvertently accessing or sharing restricted information.
  3. Real-time threat detection
    Intune integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Defender, enabling proactive threat detection and response. As AI tools proliferate, this capability becomes invaluable in identifying anomalies that could indicate potential security breaches.
  4. Secure app deployment
    Organisations can use Intune to push updates, enforce app permissions, and ensure that AI applications adhere to corporate security standards.
  5. Streamlined compliance management
    Intune supports regulatory compliance by automating tasks such as device encryption, patch management, and data classification enforcement. These features help IT teams align AI adoption with industry standards and legal requirements.

The road ahead

As AI continues to improve, its integration into business workflows will accelerate. To harness its potential while mitigating risks, organisations must prioritise endpoint security and data governance. Tools like Microsoft Intune will be indispensable in this journey, offering the control and flexibility.

IT departments must act now to:

  • Implement comprehensive device management strategies
  • Foster collaboration between compliance, security, and operational teams
  • Leverage AI responsibly, ensuring it enhances rather than jeopardises enterprise security

By adopting solutions like Microsoft Intune, businesses can not only safeguard their data but also position themselves as leaders in the responsible use of AI. The age of AI is here, and with the right tools and strategies, it can be a transformative force for good.

Trends 2025: AI and its growing impact on compliance

Trends 2025: AI and its growing impact on compliance

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While AI’s early promise sparked excitement, its slow maturity has created a unique period of uncertainty and opportunity. IT departments, in particular, find themselves at the intersection of AI’s development and the growing demands of compliance, reshaping how business leaders manage data, tools, and security.

As 2025 approaches, artificial intelligence (AI) will continue to advance, paving the way for both significant opportunities and complex challenges.

Early promise, slow maturity

AI initially dazzled with its potential to revolutionise industries, from customer service to data analysis. However, the reality has been more measured. Many organisations that embraced AI early have either scaled back their investments or reallocated resources after finding that AI’s benefits are often limited to specific use cases.

This measured adoption reflects a broader truth: AI is still a work in progress. Vendors are actively refining their offerings based on feedback from early adopters, leading to steady, albeit incremental, improvements. For now, AI has shown value in well-defined applications but remains less impactful as a general-purpose tool for most information workers.

Despite these limitations, the relentless focus on AI in vendor showcases and product announcements signals that its time is coming. As AI matures, so too will its integration into the enterprise landscape, particularly in areas where its utility is undeniable – like compliance.

Key trends shaping AI and compliance in 2025

    1. AI maturity and targeted use cases By 2025, the use cases for AI will expand as vendors refine their offerings and businesses identify clearer applications. Organisations will increasingly implement AI in areas like fraud detection, contract review, and process automation, where its impact can be measured and optimised.
  1. AI-infused vendor solutions Feedback loops from early adopters have empowered vendors to integrate AI deeper into their products. Whether through predictive analytics or advanced workflow tools, AI will become less of a standalone novelty and more of a foundational feature.
  2. Compliance as a priority, not an option The intersection of AI and compliance has emerged as a critical focus area. Organisations are realising that effective AI implementation requires robust data governance, classification, and protection measures. Compliance, once viewed as a checkbox exercise, is now recognised as essential for AI readiness.

The role of compliance

AI’s reliance on data has forced organisations to reevaluate their approach to compliance. The traditional “security through obscurity” model—where sensitive data remains safe because users simply lack access or awareness—breaks down when AI tools enter the picture. AI has the capability to uncover and analyse vast amounts of data, making inadvertent overshare a significant risk.

Data overshare risks

Incidents like Samsung workers inadvertently leaking company secrets via AI tools like ChatGPT illustrate the dangers of poorly managed data access. Shadow IT further exacerbates the issue, as employees adopt unsanctioned tools that bypass organisational controls, potentially exposing sensitive information.

Driving data governance forward

To address these challenges, IT departments are turning to tools like Microsoft Purview for data classification and protection, Microsoft Intune for device management, and SharePoint for enterprise content management. These tools help enforce policies that ensure users access only what they need while safeguarding confidential information.

Looking ahead to 2025: Preparing IT for the future

By 2025, AI and compliance will be inextricably linked. Organisations will need to develop clearer frameworks for managing AI tools and compliance processes. Key priorities for IT departments will include:

  • Strengthening data governance: Implementing stringent data classification policies to protect sensitive information.
  • Enhancing device control: Using tools like Microsoft Intune to secure and manage user devices.
  • Streamlining content management: Migrating from legacy file servers to centralised platforms like SharePoint to ensure data is organised and policy-compliant.

While AI’s full potential remains a work in progress, its growing impact is undeniable. The period of uncertainty we’re in now offers IT departments a chance to prepare, innovate, and align their strategies with the dual imperatives of AI readiness and compliance. By embracing these challenges, businesses can unlock new opportunities and ensure they are well-positioned for the digital workplace of the future.

AI is no longer just a visionary technology; it’s becoming a practical reality with profound implications for compliance and IT strategy. As organisations navigate this transition, the emphasis on strong data governance and proactive compliance measures will only grow.

Preparing IT teams for the next AI wave

Preparing IT teams for the next AI wave

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fast transforming modern businesses, they are now beginning to understand the importance of risk and compliance – not only as regulatory checkboxes but as critical components of successful AI integration.

Historically, these activities have been sidelined, as they often seem to lack direct value or innovation. However, AI’s growing role has changed the game, creating a compelling reason for IT departments to address risk and compliance with renewed focus and urgency.

Preparing for AI readiness requires a solid framework that can manage data integrity, security, and compliance, ensuring that organisations maintain control and mitigate risks effectively. Here are some critical steps to consider.

Defining your data estate

AI’s effectiveness relies on well-organised, accessible data. The first step toward readiness is defining your data estate, a process that involves cataloguing all data sources, locations, and formats across the organisation.

With AI’s ability to process and analyse large datasets, an incomplete or poorly mapped data landscape could result in inaccurate insights or overlooked assets. Identifying all data points also reveals hidden risks, from compliance liabilities to potential vulnerabilities, allowing organisations to address these proactively.

Completing cloud migration

Cloud environments have become the standard for handling modern AI tools, given their superior data management capabilities compared to traditional on-premises systems. Migrating to the cloud enables organisations to leverage mature, built-in tools for data governance and policy management, as well as scalable computing power essential for AI applications.

Argantic, a renowned Microsoft Solutions Partner within the Turrito group of companies, recognises this shift in infrastructure as it partners with, a respected Microsoft Solutions Partner, to provide enhanced cloud support. This partnership helps internal IT teams with the complex task of cloud migration, from design and implementation to ongoing optimisation and support.

Ensuring proper data access controls

One of AI’s unique capabilities is to turn ordinary users into “super searchers,” allowing them to uncover data they may not have previously accessed or known about. Consequently, establishing proper data access controls becomes vital. By limiting access to only the data each user needs, organisations reduce the risk of sensitive information being inadvertently exposed or misused.

This step not only safeguards proprietary data but also ensures compliance with data protection regulations, such as GDPR, as AI-driven searches can lead to unexpected privacy implications if unmanaged.

Defining data loss, sharing, and retention policies

AI’s integration into day-to-day operations brings increased attention to data handling policies. Data loss prevention, controlled data sharing, and retention policies must be well-defined and directly tied to data files, enabling these policies to persist as data moves within or outside the organisation.

Properly applied data policies help maintain data integrity, reduce the risk of leaks, and ensure that outdated or unnecessary data is systematically purged, avoiding clutter and compliance violations.

Addressing shadow AI usage

As companies test the waters with new AI tools, a common trend has emerged: senior staff experimenting with these tools outside of IT’s oversight. This ‘shadow AI’ activity, while innovative, raises serious concerns over unauthorised access to sensitive data and unmonitored data movement.

Companies are increasingly reaching out to experts like Argantic for assistance in creating safe boundaries for AI tools, ensuring that any exploration remains within compliance guidelines.

Empowering internal IT teams for the AI-driven future

For internal IT teams tasked with managing these changes, the burden can be significant. AI adoption places extra demands on teams that may already be stretched thin, dealing with legacy systems that are costly and rigid.

Offering specialised Microsoft and compliance expertise, Argantic empowers internal IT departments with the agility they need to handle the increasing complexities of AI, cloud migrations, and data governance.

Garry Ackerman, Argantic director, noted the advantage of providing tailored support to mid-market organisations that may lack extensive in-house resources. “Through this partnership, internal IT teams gain access to skills and support only as needed, ensuring they can focus on core activities without being sidetracked by ongoing AI management and compliance projects.”

AI adoption is a powerful tool for innovation, but it introduces risks that business leaders must be prepared to manage. Addressing these risks head-on with a comprehensive compliance and data governance framework will pave the way for successful AI integration.

As the company illustrates, the right partnerships can strengthen IT teams and set a strong foundation for the future, empowering organisations to fully harness AI’s potential within a safe, compliant, and well-managed environment.

Empowering Internal IT teams

Empowering internal IT teams

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Internal IT teams face a multitude of unique challenges, requiring specialised skills and experience to address specific needs. Traditional IT systems, which are often rigid and expensive to modify, only intensify these issues.

The pressure to rapidly adapt infrastructure and systems to meet evolving business demands can be overwhelming. In response, Turrito has acquired Argantic, a highly respected Microsoft Solutions Partner, to provide a broader and more flexible range of support.

This strategic collaboration significantly enhances the capabilities of internal IT teams by providing the specialised skills and experience needed exactly when required.

The combined expertise empowers IT departments to tackle a wider range of challenges, including Microsoft Cloud, App Modernisation, Compliance, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). By uniting their strengths, they are well-positioned to deliver comprehensive solutions tailored to the evolving demands of their clients.

“Internal IT teams encounter unique and constantly changing challenges that demand specialised skills and expertise for specific needs and at particular times,” said Richard Shaw, co-founder of Argantic. “The synergy between Turrito and Argantic enables us to address these issues directly, offering a broader and deeper range of skills whenever they are required.”

Shaw emphasised the importance of agility for IT teams needing to swiftly adapt their infrastructure and systems to meet business demands. “Traditional IT systems can be rigid and costly to change. We’ve spent years developing ways to increase flexibility while staying within budget.”

The comprehensive suite of cloud services include design, implementation, licensing, and support, ensuring that clients can scale their IT environments efficiently and cost-effectively. Once workloads are migrated to the cloud, the focus shifts to optimisation and the application of best practice compliance and security principles.

Aaron Thornton, Chief Services Officer of Turrito Networks, highlighted the critical nature of efficient IT resource management for mid-market organisations. “These organisations often lack the extensive in-house IT resources needed to manage complex environments effectively. One of our roles is to provide the specific skills required, only for as long as they’re needed.”

“The partnership offers specific and advanced support services only where they’re required, alleviating the burden on internal IT teams. This could include project assistance, management, monitoring, or ongoing optimisation of IT resources, allowing IT teams to concentrate on core activities.”

“Our combined expertise ensures we can deliver world-class support for cloud migrations, optimisation, security, backup, connectivity, and telecommunications,” concluded Thornton. “Together, we are better equipped to help our clients navigate their unique IT challenges and achieve their business objectives.”

Disaster recovery and site resilience drive cloud migration

Disaster recovery and site resilience drive cloud migration

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Businesses are increasingly realising the importance of cloud technology in ensuring Disaster Recovery (DR) and Site Resilience (SR). Argantic is at the forefront of this transformation, enabling its clients to safeguard their data and infrastructure effectively.

The Company’s CEO Garry Ackerman says there is rising trend of DR and SR as the first steps in an organisation’s cloud journey. “Drawing from our own experiences and customer feedback, we have observed a significant surge in organisations showing interest in DR and SR solutions over the past six months.”

“While factors like load shedding have undoubtedly played a role in driving this demand, there are other underlying causes. Aging hardware, the cost of expensive hardware refresh cycles, and the need for a more efficient and reliable disaster recovery strategy are some of the key factors,” he explains.

Whilst primarily focusing on Microsoft Azure, the company also explores alternatives like AWS and Google Cloud to provide customers with a diverse array of choices. These cloud platforms offer businesses the ability to replicate and secure their critical data and systems seamlessly, providing peace of mind in the event of any disaster.

The Azure cloud platform, for instance, has proven to be a game-changer for one of Argantic’s clients. Initially reluctant to embrace cloud technology, this client was facing an agonising wait of at least eight months for their hardware refresh.

However, once they embarked on their cloud journey, they were pleasantly surprised by the effectiveness of the “cloud data centre” model. This transformation not only reduced their time-to-deployment but also ensured robust disaster recovery capabilities.

Ackerman says the most compelling evidence of the power of cloud-based DR and SR solutions is the real-world success stories. “Argantic has proudly shared cases where they deployed DR and SR solutions for clients and subsequently managed to execute a seamless failover to Azure’s DR environment when the client suffered a ransomware attack. Remarkably, this transition resulted in zero data loss, showcasing the immense potential of cloud-based disaster recovery.”

While there are alternatives available, such as hosting specific large machines in local data centres, Argantic finds the offerings from hyper-scalers like Microsoft Azure to be far more compelling. These cloud giants have invested heavily in infrastructure, security, and reliability, making them an ideal choice for businesses seeking resilient disaster recovery solutions.

The cloud’s ability to offer robust disaster recovery and site resilience solutions is transforming the way businesses prepare for the unforeseen. Argantic, along with leading cloud providers like Microsoft Azure, is helping organisations make this transformation seamlessly.

Prioritising disaster recovery and site resilience as the initial step in the cloud migration journey is a clear indication of the growing importance of technology in securing business continuity.

“As businesses continually refine their approaches to disaster recovery and site resilience, we remain committed to providing innovative solutions that cater to the unique needs of each client. In a world where data is critical and resilience is of utmost importance, the cloud is proving to be an indispensable asset for any businesses,” he concludes.

Embracing change and the power of innovation

Embracing change and the power of innovation

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One thing is certain, uncertainty and change are the new norms in business. From economic upheaval and technological advancements to global health crises and environmental challenges, companies face a multitude of factors that can disrupt even the most well-established business models. In such an environment, building resilience becomes paramount for not just survival, but also for thriving.

Resilience is the ability of an organisation to withstand shocks, adapt to changing circumstances, and bounce back stronger. It’s not merely about weathering the storm; it’s about using uncertainty as a catalyst for growth. To achieve this, businesses must embrace innovation as a strategic imperative.

Here we explore strategies for building resilient organisations that can navigate uncertainty and change effectively.

Agile decision-making

In a world where information and circumstances change rapidly, the traditional top-down decision-making processes may hinder an organisation’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively. Agile decision-making, on the other hand, involves a more decentralised approach that empowers employees at all levels to make decisions within their areas of expertise.

To implement agile decision-making, foster a culture of trust where employees feel comfortable taking calculated risks. Provide teams with the necessary resources and information to make informed decisions and encourage cross-functional collaboration to ensure that decisions are well-rounded and consider various perspectives.

Also, continuously review and adapt decision-making processes to remain agile in a dynamic environment.

Adaptable processes

Resilient organisations recognise the importance of adaptable processes. They understand that what worked yesterday may not work tomorrow. To achieve adaptability, regularly assess and streamline processes to identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies. Implement technology solutions that allow for quick adjustments and automation of routine tasks.

Encourage feedback from employees and customers to refine processes based on evolving needs. More importantly, develop contingency plans and scenario-based strategies to address potential disruptions proactively.

Fostering a culture of innovation

Embracing innovation is not just a buzzword; it’s a strategic imperative that enables organisations to navigate change and unlock new opportunities for growth. An innovative culture encourages employees to explore new ideas, experiment, and challenge the status quo.

Create a safe environment where failure is seen as a learning opportunity, not a setback. Also, encourage cross-functional collaboration to bring diverse perspectives to problem-solving. Companies should invest in employee development and training to cultivate creative thinking. It is critical to recognise and reward innovative ideas and initiatives to motivate employees to contribute actively.

Embrace technology

In an era of digital transformation, technology can be a powerful ally in building resilience. Cloud computing, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and automation can enhance an organisation’s ability to adapt to change and respond to emerging trends.

Companies should invest in digital tools and platforms that enable remote work and enhance operational flexibility. Leverage data analytics to gain insights into market trends, customer preferences, and internal processes. They should also explore the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning to automate routine tasks and improve decision-making.

Build strategic partnerships

Collaboration with external partners can enhance an organisation’s resilience by providing access to complementary resources, knowledge, and expertise. Strategic partnerships can help in diversifying supply chains, expanding market reach, and sharing the burden of risk during turbulent times.

Businesses should identify potential partners whose strengths align with their weaknesses. Establish clear objectives and expectations in partnership agreements. Also, foster strong relationships built on trust and mutual benefit and continuously assess the value and relevance of partnerships as the business landscape evolves.

In conclusion, resilience is not a destination but a journey. Building a resilient business requires a proactive approach that embraces change and innovation as core principles. By adopting agile decision-making, adaptable processes, fostering a culture of innovation, embracing technology, and building strategic partnerships, businesses can not only navigate uncertainty but also position themselves to thrive amid disruption. The ability to adapt and innovate is the key to building resilience and ensuring long-term success.

Argantic helps SAHETI School enter the cloud

SAHETI School partnered with Argantic to assist with its digital journey by moving to the cloud and eradicating all paper processes. The school’s mission is to provide excellence in education and believes digital transformation is key to achieving this.

 

SAHETI has replaced its manual paper-based, email and excel processes with cloud solutions. These include migrating Skype for Business to Teams Voice Calling and integration with the school management system (Ed-admin).

 

Furthermore, a multi-disciplinary team was appointed and a case management system implemented. It has also introduced a Social Engagement Program where students log community service hours and a sports site where parents, students and teachers can view the latest fixture results.

 

Schools need tools that enable them to deploy devices faster and minimise downtime so that teachers and students can be productive. With cloud-based management, devices are always up to date. They update silently, automatically, and outside of class time, while helping to ensure the latest in security and reliability.

 

Moving to cloud-based management with Microsoft provides a secure foundation that allows schools to grow and scale toward the future. Web-based tools enhance device management and enable future upgrades and security and performance improvements.

 

SAHETI School ICT Manager Justin Harper says the biggest benefit of moving to the cloud is that all systems can be accessed anytime and from anywhere. “Also, we don’t have a huge upfront hardware cost. The paper submissions do not get lost, there is now accountability and all processes are auditable.”

 

“Student and teachers now access the same information throughout all systems – one single version of the truth – from one authoritative source. Students can access the SEP program from anywhere at any time and there is also an approval process to validate all the students’ uploads,” he explains.

 

“All of the above are done using Azure SQL and Azure app services. Our Office 365 needs from licencing to application development run through Argantic. They also provided training in house with each department,” says Harper.

 

Argantic CEO Garry Ackerman says with the right set of tools, learning can happen from anywhere, anytime. “Technology can streamline school operations so that educators can focus on educating by engaging with their students. Technology helps manage school processes, track students, communicate with stakeholders in real-time, analyse dashboard reports and derive actionable insights.”

 

Harper says Teams Voice helped them integrate two separate systems into one portal. “When our teachers had to work remotely, having a telephone at home helped them contact colleagues, students and parents.”

 

Microsoft Teams is a powerful platform that puts all classroom tools in one place. It gives educators and staff a single hub for online connection and collaboration. More importantly, it brings conversations, content, assignments and apps together in one place, letting teachers create vibrant learning environments.

 

Schools can now build collaborative classrooms, connect in professional learning communities and connect with colleagues – all from a single experience.

Argantic aims to help organisations thrive and reach their full potential in a modern cloud-centric era. The company was founded 7 years ago with the aim to focus on delivering software and infrastructure services to the corporate and enterprise business marketplace.

We help organisations migrate to the cloud and optimally use the new platforms, tools and resources to be more effective. Argantic primarily offers services for Microsoft Office 365, Microsoft 365, Skype for Business, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams and other related products. We offer consulting, engineering and development services as well as license, subscription and product sales.

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