Transforming Technology in Automotive Retail: A Case Study on IT and Cybersecurity Excellence
Comprehensive IT and Cybersecurity Solution for a Leading Automotive Dealership Holding Company
A prominent automotive dealership group, with revenues surpassing $800MM, a workforce of 2,000, and 16 locations, possessed an extensive IT framework. Despite having a sizable IT team of 15, the company struggled to navigate the fast-paced IT changes and complexities arising from numerous acquisitions.
Challenges Faced
- Fragmented communication and collaboration tools.
- Intricate tech shifts during mergers and acquisitions.
- An obsolete and unreliable network system.
- Escalating cybersecurity risks.
- Inadequate technical support structure.
- Varied conferencing platforms.
- Outdated hardware leading to rising costs.
- On-site servers causing frequent downtime and high capital outlays.
- Multiple user logins posing security risks.
- Antiquated telephony systems.
- Absence of a visionary technology plan.
Solutions Deployed by Cloud9Data Solutions
- Platform Enhancement:
- Unified various platforms under one Microsoft 365 tenant.
- Boosted employee mobility across dealerships, refining brand transitions and amplifying productivity.
- Mergers & Acquisitions: A swift technology transition is implemented within 48-72 hours during acquisitions, guaranteeing uninterrupted operations.
- Network Revamp:
- Switched from Peplink tools to the more dependable Meraki suite.
- Rolled out SDWAN, integrating vital dealership apps.
- Cybersecurity Enhancements:
- Strengthened cybersecurity with MFA, round-the-clock SOC service, and SIEM.
- Endpoint detection and response: Adopted Microsoft Intune, automating IT functions, refining processes, and bolstering security.
- Merged SSO with a hybrid Active Directory, improving security and user interface.
- Technical Support: Established a dedicated tech support desk, improving efficiency and promptness.
- Hardware Update: Launched a standardization program for equipment, minimizing downtime and simplifying repairs.
- Migration to Cloud: Executed P2V transitions, saving $250,000 in capital costs, minimizing downtime, and elevating productivity.
- Telephony Revamp: Embraced Cloud Phone and modern Contact Center solutions, ensuring faster customer interactions across channels.
- Strategic IT Planning: Rolled out a 5-year tech blueprint, detailed budget projections, quarterly assessments, and yearly vendor talks, setting the stage for sustained growth.
Results
- Cost Efficiency: Marked savings through hardware optimization, platform refinement, and IT process enhancements.
- Boosted Efficiency: Smooth transitions and refined IT operations led to increased productivity.
- Strengthened Security: Holistic cybersecurity initiatives significantly cut down breach and data loss risks.
- Integrated IT Framework: Achieved a unified and streamlined IT setup through platform and network overhauls.
- Future Preparedness: The Strategic IT Planning service equipped the dealership with a blueprint for ongoing growth and tech evolution.
Conclusion
Cloud9 Data Solutions comprehensive approach transformed the IT landscape of the automotive dealership group. The bespoke solutions tackled present-day challenges and set the stage for a tech-savvy future, positioning the company as a leader in the automotive dealership sector.
Are you ready to enhance your dealership's security posture? Contact our team today to find the best IT and Cybersecurity solutions tailored to your needs. Together, we can build a robust security infrastructure that protects your business from evolving cyber threats and keeps you compliant with the new Safegaurd rules. We also offer a free security assessment. |
