As a Netstore Premier Partner, Digica is now able to provide on-line access to Microsoft Exchange 2000 and Netstore’s On-Line Backup via an ASP rental model. The software will be hosted by Netstore at their secure data centres in Bracknell and linked to the web with a resilient communication line. Users access the Netstore server system via a web browser or in the case of an MS Outlook 2000 client, via an Internet link provided by an ISP. For the user, the functionality is exactly the same as having the software running in-house.
Digica will provide implementation support for Microsoft Exchange 2000 as well as ongoing end user support and administration. Where appropriate, Digica will also provide seamless migration from an existing email system, whether that is an alternative system or a previous version of MS Exchange. The existing software can be run alongside Exchange 2000 with a link between the two packages until migration is complete. The implementation or migration may include project management, migration of the existing mail system data, Client PC software installation, configuration and user training.
Because Netstore’s offerings are Internet-enabled, email users are not limited to one PC, or even one building, when they need to send and receive email or backup their computers. The service also comes with automatic updates to the latest software releases, as well as Service Level Agreements, which guarantee uptime and reliability – all with visible and scalable cost of ownership through the simple subscription model.
Netstore understands that there’s more to ASP than just delivering the software to the user’s PC, said Andy Bower, Digica’s sales & marketing director. Successful ASP requires implementation into the customer’s environment and on-going applications support for the end user – both of which are core business for Digica.
Commenting on the new relationship with Digica, Alison Heath, UK sales director, Netstore, said, Digica is an ideal partner for Netstore. Their reputation and market presence combined with their understanding of, and commitment to, the ASP model, will provide continuous support for Netstore’s end users, allowing us to focus our activities on hosting and developing our offerings . Netstore’s relationships with channel partners, such as Digica enable resellers to offer ASP services without fear of losing control of the end user relationship.
