How Nordlo helped Norec to modernise IT operations and move to the cloud
Norec needed an operational provider that could modernise their IT environment and move everything to the cloud. Nordlo took over the management of the IT infrastructure and carried out a comprehensive migration to Microsoft 365 and Azure. The result was simplified administration, increased security, and significantly easier onboarding of new employees.
Customer
Norec
Services from Nordlo
Cloud and infrastructure
Security
Modern workplace
Industry
Public sector
Collaboration in Brief
- Complete cloud migration with stable operation
Moving all servers to Nordlo's data centre and transitioning to cloud-based solutions
- Increased security and simplification
Implementation of the Microsoft Defender portfolio and streamlined M365 environment
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Dedicated support with one point of contact
A consistent contact who knows the business and ensures quick management of needs
Background
Norec needed extensive IT modernisation
Norec needed a service provider who could take over the management of the existing ICT infrastructure, in close collaboration with Norec's own ICT manager. This included:
- Monitoring of network infrastructure and other local or cloud-based services and systems to ensure a good level of network and data security, as well as advice on measures to achieve the expected security level according to current standards.
- Management and operation of local and virtual servers, switches, firewalls, UPS, cooling, and other ICT equipment to ensure a stable, secure, and environmentally friendly ICT infrastructure.
- A clear desire to move as much as possible to the cloud and not rely on local servers.
In the past year, Norec has also taken on increased responsibilities from the government in the form of evaluating government support. This resulted in the establishment of a new department and the onboarding of new employees into the organisation. In this regard, Nordlo has assisted in processes such as onboarding employees, where Microsoft 365 and the Intune solution that has been built up over time have significantly simplified the process. Intune provides Norec with centralized and secure device management with automated deployment, standardised configurations, and ongoing compliance with security policies, saving time and reducing risk. Nordlo has also assisted in the creation of various systems, including an AI tool that will be used by the evaluation department.
Why Norec chose Nordlo
Nordlo was among several suppliers that submitted bids in connection with Norec's announcement of a new operational supplier. The process was extensive, with many actors and a longer processing time, as it was crucial to find a partner who could deliver in line with the requirements. Nordlo stood out with solid expertise in operations and a good understanding of other government entities. This was decisive for Nordlo winning the bidding competition.
"Nordlo was chosen for several important reasons. They had strong expertise in operations and significant experience with cloud migration, which was crucial for us at that time. Additionally, they offered a solid support team with one dedicated contact person who handled all our needs. This meant we did not have to deal with many different consultants, reducing the risk of small but important changes in the environment being overlooked. Their knowledge of operations and governmental requirements was also a central factor that contributed to the choice of Nordlo" – Thomas Viken, IKT manager at Norec.
Solution
How Nordlo carried out the migration
When Norec chose Nordlo as their IT partner, the work began to move all the servers in use into Nordlo's data centre in Vennesla, while the office network was upgraded. Nordlo took over the license management and switched to the most cost-effective licenses that provided Norec’s employees with the tools they needed. All devices at Norec were onboarded into Nordlo's RMM system to gain control over the hardware and ensure security.
Once the fundamentals were in place, Nordlo reviewed Norec’s Microsoft 365 environment to improve both usability and security.
"The collaboration with Nordlo has had a positive impact on our daily operations and workflows. We have achieved better structure and predictability in our deliveries, which increases our efficiency and reduces the time spent on coordination. The dedicated contact person has made it easier to handle changes and needs quickly, without involving many parties. We also see concrete benefits in terms of increased stability and security in our systems, as well as a smoother transition to cloud-based solutions. This has strengthened our ability to focus on core tasks and reduced the risk of operational disruptions," – Thomas Viken, IKT Manager at Norec.
If we were to recommend Nordlo to others, we would highlight their ability to combine solid professional expertise with a personal and efficient follow-up. We would also emphasize their experience in operations and service delivery, as well as a strong focus on stability and security. This combination makes the collaboration both effective and predictable, providing great value for businesses that want a partner who takes responsibility and delivers comprehensive solutions.
Result
Stable operation and increased efficiency
The collaboration has provided a simplified and more predictable management of IT, better overview and security. Moving all solutions to the cloud, primarily using M365 and Azure, has contributed to stable operations, and the review of Microsoft 365 has strengthened both usability and security. Norec has utilised the entire Microsoft Defender portfolio, which contributes to high security. And with Nordlo's 8/5 monitoring during working hours and third-party 24/7 monitoring, any incidents are swiftly handled. For Norec's new evaluation department, the M365 and Intune setup has made onboarding new employees significantly easier. Additionally, Nordlo has assisted in establishing an AI tool to be used in the department's work.
"We find that Nordlo provides high-quality services. One of the greatest strengths is that we have one dedicated contact person who knows our business and culture well. This provides a holistic understanding of our needs and ensures that the deliveries are tailored to us in a way that would otherwise be difficult. This model contributes to faster and more precise deliveries, while the responsibility is clearly placed. Nordlo has shown that this is an important priority for them, and it gives us confidence in the collaboration" – Thomas Viken, IT Manager at Norec.
About Norec
Development organisation with global operations
Norec is part of the Norwegian government's development policy and is funded through the national budget. The main task is to support the exchange of employees and members between businesses, institutions, and organisations in Norway, Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Norec is directly under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is located in Førde in Sogn og Fjordane.
The organisation has 63 employees. They often travel as trainers or advisors in collaboration with actors who do not always have the same technological prerequisites as in Norway. One goal has therefore been to reduce travel time and increase activity through online courses and other digital communication methods, as well as to assist with the operation of existing environments.
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