Contemporary lifestyle retailer Loads of Living has added a new dimension to its inter-branch connectivity having converted the network infrastructure across all sites. National network integration specialist Integr8 IT was brought in to handle the project.
Loads of Living recently rejuvenated its connective ability by migrating onto a Windows 2000/XP platform and converting all PCs to either 2000 or XP. The store also brought in new servers and implemented a WAN with AD replication.
"The project involved a large scale WAN implementation of SQL 2000 server and was initiated so that the new point of sales systems - Active Retail - Solomon is made available. Through the creation of quality of service rules, we are able to modify the amount of data that flows over the line as well as how frequently it replicates. This implementation makes the most of available bandwidth over WAN links and the company now has a high-end, highly customised solution, involving multi-site replication," explains Eirin Lankwarden, Integr8 IT network engineer.
As a result of this project, Loads of Living branches are able to maximise off robust, efficient and reliable connectivity with head office. It also enables the retailer to maintain clear lines of communication through the effective management of data transfer.
"With the amount of data flowing through the lines, we had to optimise the replication and create rules for data transport. QoS enabled us to reduce the flow of data and create trickle flows, which does not degrade the line performance. A remote site can browse over a 64k line and users are able to retrieve mail or browse the Internet. At the same time the SQL database replicates to all remote sites with little or no effect on degradation of line performance," explains Lankwarden.
Aside from these network modifications, Integr8 IT also introduced a previously unavailable solution in the form of RAS or Remote Access Services. This solution provides a dial-in service that allows anyone with a modem ISDN or analogue to dial into the office.
"This is a great feature for the buyers and managers, as they can dial in and with terminal services or using a normal browsing features can work, update, buy new stock, modify prices and publish the prices to any site on the WAN. This has the ability to reduce travel time and expenses, and increase their business functionality," says Lankwarden.
According to David Jossel, MD of Loads of Living, Integr8 IT has provided a proactive service that will have a positive impact on the business and its internal communication.
"Integr8 IT guarantees a turnaround time within its service level agreements. This, together with its proactive approach to client service, its robust solutions and technical expertise, has certainly added value to our operation. The installation and upgrade has only recently taken place and, with time, we expect the project to have a significant influence. The solution and technology in place is an effective business tool that we can use to filter additional value through to our customers," says Jossel.
Share
Integr8 IT (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned network technology services and solutions company in southern Africa. Based in SA, the company employs a wealth of highly skilled and certified system engineers who are directly involved in high level consulting, support and integration.
With offices located in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and representation in Port Elizabeth, East London and Port Elizabeth, Integr8 IT spans nationally across Southern Africa and Africa continent. It has the people and expertise to plan, deploy, manage and maintain an information technology environment.
Whether a client seeks better control of its networked environment or is in need of practical solutions, complex or simple, Integr8 IT provides the answers with enhanced information technology services.
Editorial contacts