Reduced to a single-person IT department, a county park system partnered with MNJ to expand IT bandwidth, simplify user account setup, improve network visibility and efficiency, and develop a future-ready infrastructure for further cloud possibilities.
Low IT Team bandwidth
Overly complex and outdated network structure
Lack of synchronization between local and cloud domains
Hybrid Domain Integration
Network Optimization
Cost Optimization
Reduced IT Burden
Streamlined Operations
Improved Network Resilience
Cisco Meraki
Microsoft
MSP Hub
A county parks and recreation system managing 26 parks and employing 50–65 staff seasonally faced significant IT challenges after losing the robust support provided by county IT services. With a single-person IT department, they needed a partner to simplify their network, reduce costs, and ensure reliable IT infrastructure to support their diverse team.
The loss of county IT services exposed key vulnerabilities in the client’s technology infrastructure:
Support Constraints: Managing day-to-day operations while troubleshooting and upgrading IT systems became unmanageable for a one-person IT department.
Complex Network Configuration:A VLS network with a single hub caused all sites to lose internet connectivity if the hub location experienced outages. This also limited ISP options.
Disconnected Domains: Separate local and cloud domains meant users had to manage multiple accounts, leading to confusion and inefficiencies in accessing data.
These challenges hindered the park system’s ability to provide a cohesive user experience, maintain operational efficiency, and support their staff effectively.
MNJ Technologies partnered with the client to deliver a tailored solution that addressed their immediate IT needs while setting the stage for future growth:
Hybrid Domain Integration:MNJ configured a hybrid domain to synchronize local accounts with Microsoft 365. Implementing Intune enabled centralized management of user accounts, streamlining setup and reducing user confusion.
Network Optimization:Following MNJ’s recommendation, the client implemented Cisco Meraki devices to simplify network management and improve reliability. The client also transitioned from the hub-dependent VLS network to a more robust configuration, ensuring consistent internet connectivity across all sites.
Cost Optimization:MNJ’s cloud team leveraged existing Microsoft 365 licenses to maximize value while reducing the need for additional expenditures. In addition, the team proposed cost-saving measures without compromising service levels.
Ongoing Support and Training:The client experienced hands-on support to configure and transition systems seamlessly. MNJ also trained the IT staff to manage the new hybrid domain and leverage Microsoft licensing benefits effectively.
The partnership with MNJ delivered measurable and impactful outcomes for the parks system:
Reduced IT Burden: The hybrid domain significantly decreased the number of support calls related to account troubleshooting, allowing the IT staff to focus on strategic initiatives.
Streamlined Operations: Account setup and management became faster and more efficient, saving valuable time for the IT department.
Improved Network Resilience: The new network configuration eliminated the risk of complete connectivity loss due to single-site outages and allowed greater flexibility in ISP options.
Enhanced Visibility and Control: The district gained better visibility of its networked computers, enabling proactive management and improved security.
Through MNJ Technologies’ expertise and proactive support, the parks district has transformed its IT infrastructure, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and preparing for further growth. The seamless integration of a hybrid domain and network upgrades has enhanced the user experience for staff and ensured operational reliability.
Future Plans
The parks district now understands the importance of right-sizing technology solutions to fit their unique needs. They plan to continue leveraging MNJ’s expertise as they transition more resources to the cloud, ensuring their IT environment remains scalable and efficient.
Matt Ogden is MNJ’s Chief Operating Officer. Matt is widely recognized as the voice of the customer. He was, in fact, a customer of MNJ for 14 years. MNJ customers trust Matt for his command of IT and Digital Transformation within the context of optimized business outcomes.
Matt bridges the gap between legacy technology environments and practical future state success. He has a rare ability to meet the customer where they are and build high integrity, cost effective plans to help technology teams function better. He has even been called a CTO/CIO whisperer. His command of best practices comes from his 14+ years of experience as a leader within the Fortune 19 company – Marathon Petroleum Corporation.
Matt is a Management Information Systems (MIS) graduate from Kent State University. Matt is all about family and invests his free time into them while enjoying coaching and Disney World adventures. Matt is also an avid Cleveland Browns fan.
