Admiral began by installing new file and print servers, a Microsoft (News - Alert) Exchange server and a terminal server, to replace a failing server purchased when the charity had just five employees. Admiral used VMware server virtualization software to run multiple applications from a single physical server to maximize hardware usage. Further, the company also arranged low-cost charity software licenses across a range of Microsoft applications.

Admiral conducted a ‘network refresh’ to upgrade cabling to the latest network standards. This also allowed a new digital telephony system to be installed, using the IT network to carry telephone calls over the Internet (IP). The new Aastra (News - Alert) IntelliGate system easily accommodates the existing 40 telephone extensions while allowing plenty of room for expansion.

Offering voicemail, call transfer and caller identification for all users, the system also allows the receptionist to see the status of all 40 lines on-screen to check who is busy or available to take a call. Calls are answered and forwarded with a simple mouse click.

The national charity, which based in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, is seeking to create a unique and unforgettable experience tailored for each beneficiary, with these special days helping to break the stress and difficult realities of diagnosis and treatment. 

The charity also needed to implement the latest IT systems. The charity planned to implement a new customer relationship management (CRM) system, specifically designed for charities, called Raiser’s Edge. Helen Evans, finance director at the Willow Foundation was responsible for engaging new supplier partners who could take a more holistic approach to the charity’s technology infrastructure requirements. Helen engaged Admiral Group after inviting numerous suppliers to submit competitive proposals.

In a press release, Helen Evans, finance director for Willow Foundation, said, “Admiral gave clear advice, always communicating in layman’s terms. All of the installation work was completed without a hitch. All charities know that investing in new technology diverts valuable money away from charitable work, so we had to be certain that it would deliver a positive return on investment. Admiral has proved they offered the best value for money for our organization.”

Paul Allen, managing director of communications business for Admiral Group, added, “Admiral works with many charitable organizations such as Willow Foundation and we work hard to understand their needs. There is often a dilemma for charities when investing in new technology, but in our experience even modest levels of investment make a rapid return for charities. The new investment means that they eliminate costs associated with supporting expensive, ageing systems. It also leads to efficiencies and removes technology barriers which build up over time, holding back new innovation.”

This year, Admiral Group opened a new London office to accommodate its rapidly expanding operations.