PROJECT CONNECT
 A program of Info Line, Inc.

Remote Network Services

Empowering nonprofits to serve more people through technology and connectivity.

 


 

Remote Advantage Plan

Affordable Network Services for Nonprofits

This service is ideal for small- to mid-size nonprofits who can benefit from network capabilities and up-to-date productivity software but do not have the resources to implement or sustain the technology. Project Connect staff provide all remote server and support services.

Increased Productivity and Cost & Time Savings

  • Nonprofits gain network capabilities, shared files, and access to current Microsoft Office software by connecting to Info Line’s server through the internet.
  • Existing or donated computers can be used, eliminating the need to replace computers every 3-5 years.
  • No need for in-house technical staff or expensive, long-term vendor support.
  • Project Connect staff performs all networking functions: technical support, maintenance, troubleshooting, disaster recovery, software licensing, etc.

Nonprofits Need Networks to Impact Mission Fulfillment

Networks enhance staff productivity, maximize use of scarce resources, and directly impact the organization’s ability to accomplish mission-critical processes by enabling:

  • Internal communications and file sharing
  • External e-mail and internet connectivity
  • Device sharing
  • Security protocols
  • Disaster recovery

How it Works

The Traditional Server Network
Each nonprofit purchases the following:
bullet Servers for file storage and device sharing which must be replaced every 3-5 years
bullet Server software (operating, e-mail, system scanning, virus protection, etc.)
bullet Back up system (and consumable back-up media)
bullet Routers and firewalls for security protocols
bullet Central hubs or switches to physically connect the computers to the network
bullet Server modems for external internet access
bullet Internet access (DSL, SDSL, T-1’s, etc.)
bullet Staff computers which must be replaced every 3-5 years in order to handle increased software requirements
bullet Software programs which must be updated every 2-3 years in order to maintain efficiency, share files with other agencies, and ensure ongoing technical support
bullet Hardware and software support contracts, or per-call charges

Continuous software updates and vendor support are needed to maintain the network at efficient levels. Staff must be available for re-routing technical support to the vendor, basic troubleshooting, maintenance, updates, back-ups, etc.

Total cost of ownership of an internal network ranges between $10,000-$25,000 per year, depending on how much equipment is purchased, how much vendor support is needed to install and maintain it, and how many unforeseen crisis situations occur each year.

 
Project Connect’s
Remote Advantage Plan
Each nonprofit purchases the following:
bullet Central hubs or switches with internal firewalls to physically connect the computers to the internet
bullet Internet access (DSL, SDSL, T-1’s, etc.)
bullet Remote Access Services from Project Connect

The nonprofit utilizes Info Line’s server to access all needed software and its data via the internet. Only the staff with authorized passwords will be able to access the nonprofit’s information. Nonprofit staff can open and edit needed files wherever the internet can be accessed (dependent upon sufficient licensing).

The nonprofit’s computers will not need to be upgraded. They will need to be replaced only if parts wear out. Donated computers can even be used. New or used computers can be purchased with only a Windows operating system and a network card.

Total Cost of operating a network on the Remote Advantage Plan starts at less than 10% of the cost of maintaining an internal network.

PLUS: Included in the Remote Advantage Plan:
  • Server access for file storage and device sharing
  • Server software (operating, e-mail, system scanning, virus protection, etc.)
  • Regular data back-ups and offsite storage of back-ups
  • Routers and firewalls for security protocols
  • Extended staff computer life
  • Current versions of Microsoft Office
  • Technical support for hardware issues
  • Technical support for Microsoft Office

 

Project Connect Staff Provides All Server & Support Services

  • Maintain and administer the secured network to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Maintain all software licensing.
  • Make daily tape back-ups of all data and keep them off-site.
  • Provide “shadowed” technical support. When troubleshooting, we can request permission to shadow the staff person. We then can see the person’s screen and talk the person through the problem. If necessary, we can make changes directly on that computer.

Project Connect Support

  • Via phone, e-mail, and shadowing
  • Unlimited & comprehensive
  • Provided by staff experienced in IT and nonprofit operations
  • Supported by Amos Data Systems and the resources of the Project Connect Advisory Council

Estimated Costs (Formal Proposal Developed after Inventory Assessment)

  • $650 per computer each year
  • $500 per user one-time set-up
    • Includes on-site inventory assessment; transfer of files; additional equipment may be needed
  • $600 per additional software program other than Microsoft Office
    • Nonprofit maintains all licensing
  • Ongoing internet access
    • All costs associated with obtaining internet access (including wiring, switches, and firewalls) are the responsibility of the nonprofit

Cost Savings & Convenience Advantages

  • No need for server & maintenance

  • Office software licensing included
  • State-of-the-art security system
  • No need for dedicated IT staff
  • No need for back-up media
  • Tiered technical support reduces on-site costs
  • No need for scheduled computer replacements

Also Available: 3-5 Year Technology Plan

  • Hardware, software, networking, and connectivity
  • Training based on staff responsibilities & abilities
  • Multi-tiered technical support
  • Disaster recovery plan
  • Policies for use
  • Ongoing maintenance & planned obsolescence
  • Strategies for successful implementation

The Next Step:

 



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