GAIN & Exquitech - Exquitech

About the Decision

What led GAIN to outsource its IT and managed services to Exquitech?

We decided to outsource our IT as our small but mighty team were growing and we were coming across too many IT issues that we could deal with without expert knowledge. The other major deciding factor was the security of our systems. Being a small charity, we were left wide open to any potential cyber attacks and this needed fixing.
What were you hoping to improve by making this change?

Relying on Google for IT answers was no longer an option. We needed to be able to click a button and know that there was a real person looking at any of the issues we were facing. We also wanted to be able to streamline a lot of the systems we were using.

What challenges were you facing with IT, security, or compliance before working with Exquitech?

Lots of tecnical issues with laptops and systems not working and little knowledge on how to fix them.

Zero security apart from the basics that you get with Microsoft but this still left us vulnerable
Were there any specific concerns around security certification or risk?

We deal with a huge amount of data and it was becoming a real worry about potential security breaches etc.

How would you describe the day-to-day working relationship?

Working with Exquitech couldnt be easier. For the wider team, if they have any issues, they can log a ticket with ease and we have found that the Exquitech team are very quick to find a sloution and deal with the issue.

I work closely with Steve who is our Account Manager as well as Matt for all things security and technical. They are both fantastic and always available if I have any questions.

What improvements have you noticed since outsourcing your managed services?

We no longer worry about IT issues causing disruption to our work as we have the amazing team to support us. I know we are in very safe hands with Exquitech, particularly from the cyber security point of view. Although we are all very diligent, it is a weight off the shoulders knowing we are being closely monitored.
How has your confidence in security and compliance changed?

There is no way we would be doing what we are able to do now without the added security. The firms that we work with feel more comfortable that our data is secure as well.
Have there been any clear benefits such as time savings, reduced risk, or smoother operations?

All of the above. I think for me personally, having the stress taken off when there is an IT based issue is huge. I am not an expert in any way and the team were relying on me to come up with solutions which I just didnt have. Exquitech have also been great at providing solutions in terms of the way we work. Our processes are a lot more efficient now.

Was there a particular moment or milestone that made you feel the partnership was a success?

Gaining our Cyber Essentials was huge for us.
Can you share an example where Exquitech’s support made a real difference?

There is no way we would have been able to become Cyber Essentials certified without Exquitech. The expert knowledge and making sure all our systems are compliant, is second to none.

We have also benefited hugely from training that Exquitech have provided. Particularly around cyber security but also on specific platforms eg Co-Pilot

How do you see the partnership with Exquitech developing in the future?

I know there is a huge amount more that we can do with our IT to continue to become more efficient and Steve is great at letting me know about options that we have.
Are there areas where you expect Exquitech to continue adding value?

I know that Exquitech will continue to monitor our systems closely as well as let us know about any solutions that they think will help us given the knowledge they now have of our organisation.

What would you say to another organisation considering Exquitech?

Sign up immediately!

Jokes aside, Exquitech have honestly been a game changer for us in terms of the way we are able to operate. The IT side of things is crucial to what we do and it was therefore a huge barrier as well as we didnt have the expertise to elevate things.
In one sentence, how would you describe the value Exquitech brings to GAIN and are there any improvements that could build on the partnership?

The knowlegde and expertise of the Exquitech team allow us to not only function but to expand and thrive as a business as we dont have to be concerned about any IT issues.