CTS

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director of IT of Leaders In Our Neighborhood Charter School

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

K-12 Charter School

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire CTS to accomplish?

• We hired CTS to migrate our on-premises server environment to Azure, streamlining our infrastructure and replacing OKTA IAM with Azure's native identity and access management solutions

SOLUTION

How did you find CTS?

Other

Why did you select CTS over others?

• Great culture fit
• Other

How many teammates from CTS were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

The project involved migrating the organization to Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) to centralize identity management, streamline operations, and eliminate dependency on Okta. This migration leveraged Microsoft's highly redundant cloud-based services without requiring additional Azure infrastructure.

Key Deliverables

• Migration to Entra ID (Azure AD):
  • All user identities were migrated to Microsoft Entra ID as the central identity solution.
  • Okta authentication was replaced with Entra ID across approximately 20 key applications, reconfiguring them for SAML or SWA authentication.
• Device Configuration and Deployment:
  • Entra ID Join was implemented for staff devices.
  • Microsoft Intune policies were configured for device management.
  • Autopilot was enabled for automated workstation deployment.
  • Training was provided to the IT team on Autopilot usage for workstation imaging.

Network Configuration Adjustments:

• DHCP and DNS functions were transferred from Windows Servers to firewalls at key locations.

Server Decommissioning:

• Legacy servers were decommissioned as they were no longer needed post-migration.

Password and MFA Configuration:

• Entra ID was reconfigured, requiring staff to reset passwords and set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on their devices.

Application Reconfiguration:

• Approximately 20 applications were reviewed and migrated to Entra ID, ensuring seamless authentication.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

1. Centralized Identity Management: Successfully transitioned from Okta to Microsoft Entra ID, streamlining identity management across the organization.
2. Application Migration: Seamlessly reconfigured approximately 20 applications to work with Entra ID, enhancing security and accessibility.
3. Improved Device Management: Implemented Intune policies and utilized Autopilot for automated deployment, simplifying device management and boosting efficiency.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

CTS provided excellent project management throughout the engagement. Eugene effectively led the team, keeping tasks on track and meeting deadlines. The biggest milestone was the smooth transition from Okta to Entra ID, even with Okta set to be cut off prior to the cutover. The CTS team prioritized the transition, ensuring our organization retained access to core applications without disruption. Rob played a crucial role in the technical implementation and support, proactively addressing items outside the overall scope and educating the team to better prepare for post-migration work. Both Eugene and Rob were responsive and proactive, ensuring a seamless transition and quickly addressing any challenges that arose.

What was your primary form of communication with CTS?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

What I found most impressive about CTS was their ability to seamlessly adapt to changing requirements and priorities. Even with the Okta service set to be cut off, they managed to successfully transition to Entra ID without any disruption to core applications. Eugene and Rob’s proactive communication and technical expertise were key to ensuring a smooth migration. They were also very responsive to our needs, quickly addressing any challenges and providing valuable guidance throughout the project. Their dedication to delivering high-quality results was evident at every step.

Are there any areas for improvement or something CTS could have done differently?

An area for potential improvement could have been to provide one more person on the team to assist with support. While CTS completed their work effectively, our internal IT team also had tasks to manage, and there were times when questions arose that could have been easily mitigated with an additional team member, especially to support Rob, who was handling a significant workload. However, beyond that, there were no major issues, and overall, CTS performed exceptionally well. Their dedication to delivering high-quality results was evident throughout the project.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CFO of Equality Charter School

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We are a publicly funded K12 charter school.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Charter Technology Solutions to accomplish?

• Turnaround failing IT infrastructure and supports in our Middle and High Schools
• Design and implement IT infrastructure at newly constructed Elementary & High School building
• Act as a strategic and operational partner on long term tech goals

SOLUTION

How did you find Charter Technology Solutions?

Referral

Why did you select Charter Technology Solutions over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Referred to me

How many teammates from Charter Technology Solutions were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

• Security: CTS to provide power requirements and location of power for security monitors, add data that is not there where it may be needed, and heights of cameras 
• Access control: CTS to spec intercom, spec door control type/lock for access control, receiver for intercom, power requirements for these items and locations for power 
• IT: 
  • CTS to design typical classroom layout identifying teaching wall and spec for either projector or smart board, create elevation for power and data for teaching wall in classroom and power requirements 
  • Allow for discussion with Equality to discuss specialty rooms for usage relating to IT and power CTS to spec IT equipment, power locations, and power requirements for IT room 
• AV: CTS to provide power locations, and AV power requirements for specialty areas such as cafeteria and gym, specs for AV equipment as well, heights for items

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Our internet health has gone way up and staff have restored faith in our ability to address tech concerns.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

They've done a terrific job communicating about the projects and timelines, as well as organizing the questions/ answers needed to complete a project.

What was your primary form of communication with Charter Technology Solutions?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They were able to effectively address concerns I had about our client relationship in a way that productively and professionally shared the burden of the relationship between themselves and us as a client. They also took important feedback from me early on and developed a tool that made it easier for me to gauge the health/ status of all our tickets.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Charter Technology Solutions could have done differently?

At some point after our first quarter or six months, I would love to have an invitation from the principal to a virtual coffee break. Because they effectively addressed my initial concerns, I haven't needed to be in touch with him. I am realizing now that some intentional touchpoint that's not reactive or problem based would be a good opportunity for both of us to connect/ reinforce shared values.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

 I am the Manager of Network Operations of an education company 

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

A K-12 charter school network designed to help students succeed academically and go to college, while also developing them as socially aware leaders.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Charter Technology Solutions to accomplish?

• We needed a reliable, scalable IT services provider to support the day-to-day technology operations across our schools. This included ensuring consistent network performance, device management, help desk support, and overall infrastructure stability to support both instruction and administrative functions.

SOLUTION

How many teammates from Charter Technology Solutions were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Charter Technology Solutions manages IT services across all four of our school locations in Harlem, the Bronx, and Bridgeport. Their scope includes network management, help desk support, hardware and software maintenance, and infrastructure oversight. The team is generally responsive and works closely with our on-site staff and leadership, acting as an extension of our internal operations team.

What's the status of this engagement?

 They are our current IT provider, and our contract has been extended through 2028.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The partnership began with support for three schools and has since expanded to four, with plans to grow to five. Over time, they have taken on a more comprehensive role, providing full-service IT support across the network and adapting to our growth and evolving needs.

What was your primary form of communication with Charter Technology Solutions?

Virtual Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They have great customer service.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Charter Technology Solutions could have done differently?

Improvement areas include providing earlier and clearer communication around cost changes, particularly for services outside the base contract. Additionally, strengthening device management processes—such as inventory tracking, deployment timelines, and lifecycle planning—would enhance efficiency and transparency.

What advice do you have for clients with similar needs to yours?

Develop a detailed checklist of your IT needs upfront and review it thoroughly with your provider. Clearly distinguish what is included in the monthly contract versus what may incur additional costs. It’s also helpful to establish expectations around response times, communication protocols, and scalability as your organization grows.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director of Instructional Technology of Public Prep Network

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

My organization is a single-sex charter school that is located in the Bronx, New York.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Charter Technology Solutions to accomplish?

• Provide IT services

SOLUTION

How did you find Charter Technology Solutions?

Other

Why did you select Charter Technology Solutions over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Charter Technology Solutions were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Charter Technology Solutions has consistently delivered outstanding IT-managed services for our school district. We heavily depend on their ongoing help desk support, which seamlessly integrates with the on-site technical assistance provided by their dedicated engineers.

Additionally, we have engaged their consulting services on multiple projects of varying scales, all of which have been executed with precision and expertise. One notable project where Charter Technology Solutions has demonstrated their capabilities is the support for the construction of our state-of-the-art new school building, spanning an impressive 87,000 square feet.

Throughout this endeavor, their team has showcased unparalleled commitment and proficiency. Having worked with several outsourced IT providers catering to charter schools, I can confidently affirm that Charter Technology Solutions surpasses its competitors by a significant margin.

Their staff comprises highly competent and experienced professionals who consistently go above and beyond to meet our needs. Moreover, I greatly appreciate their investment in training programs aimed at nurturing individuals early in their careers, ensuring they possess the necessary skills to excel in this rapidly evolving industry.

In light of their exceptional performance and unwavering dedication, I wholeheartedly recommend Charter Technology Solutions to any school seeking a reliable and comprehensive IT partner, especially in today's technology-driven landscape where digital infrastructure is paramount.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Charter Technology Solutions has successfully met and exceeded our expectations in many of the projects we have undertaken with them. Our success criteria consist of ensuring that staff and students have access to the technology needed to teach and learn effectively.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Charter Technology Solutions delivered the project on time and met our needs.

What was your primary form of communication with Charter Technology Solutions?

In-Person Meeting

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Charter Technology Solutions specifically caters to schools and non-profits. The company understands the needs of this market and supports us in making decisions that meet our needs as a school and align with our budget constraints.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Charter Technology Solutions could have done differently?

We have undergone a lot of long-term strategic planning, but the next step would be creating a roadmap with year-to-year goals and expected outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director of IT Operations of Brooklyn Prospect Charter School

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

K-12 Charter Schools

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire CTS to accomplish?

• Network & School Infrastructure Build Out
• Continued Service & Maintanence

SOLUTION

How did you find CTS?

Referral

Why did you select CTS over others?

• High ratings
• Close to my geographic location
• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from CTS were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Provided design & implementation of 2 elementary & middles schools.  Did entire school network buildout.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Deadlines met on time for a successful school opening.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Their project management has been top-notch.  Response time was immediate and remediation (if needed) was done in a timely well processed manner.

What was your primary form of communication with CTS?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Attention to detail w/ consisten follow up and follow through.

Are there any areas for improvement or something CTS could have done differently?

Nothing at this time.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I work in consulting, providing management consulting and executive leadership for nonprofits and charter schools. Previously, I served as the executive director of a charter school in New York City, where I oversaw operations and strategic initiatives.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CTS?

We needed support for our IT manager, assistance with installing IT networks, and help with E-Rate compliance for our charter school. Our goal was to ensure reliable IT operations and compliance with complex regulatory requirements.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

CTS provided comprehensive IT support, including end-user support for all technology-related issues, network monitoring to prevent outages, server infrastructure management with patching and security, hardware and software deployment and procurement, and strategic technology planning through annual assessments and quarterly reviews.

What is the team composition?

There were between two and five team members from CTS assigned to our project.

How did you come to work with CTS?

We found them through a referral. We chose them due to their high ratings, they're close to our location, are a culture fit, offer good value for cost, and our company values aligned

What is the status of this engagement?

The engagement with CTS began in October 2015 and is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

We consistently upgraded our IT systems to meet the needs of a growing charter school, and almost never experienced service interruptions. Our internet capacity was upgraded nearly every year, enabling us to purchase and deploy all necessary software and hardware for the school.

How did CTS perform from a project management standpoint?

CTS was professional and delivered on time throughout the engagement. We communicate via emails and messages.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I was particularly impressed by their understanding of the unique needs of charter schools and their expertise with the complex E-Rate program.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Overall, there is nothing I would suggest for improvement.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Senior Director of Operations of Array Education

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Array Education works in education and education programming support!

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire CTS to accomplish?

• Better IT Support
• Better Customer service
• Savvier techs

SOLUTION

How did you find CTS?

• Online Search
• Referral

Why did you select CTS over others?

• High ratings
• Close to my geographic location
• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Referred to me

How many teammates from CTS were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

CTS is supporting us with Tech Support and they have been wonderful!

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Higher rating on IT services from our staff. 

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Very good project management and very good communication. Highly recommend CTS for this. 

What was your primary form of communication with CTS?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They were very responsive and eager to support and help. 

Are there any areas for improvement or something CTS could have done differently?

NA

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director Of Finance and Operations of New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Sexual Assault Advocacy

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Charter Technology Solutions to accomplish?

• Tech Support

SOLUTION

How did you find Charter Technology Solutions?

Referral

Why did you select Charter Technology Solutions over others?

Good value for cost

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

IT management

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

N/A

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Yes, they deliver on time and are responsive to our needs.

What was your primary form of communication with Charter Technology Solutions?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

N/A

Are there any areas for improvement or something Charter Technology Solutions could have done differently?

n/a