Exodata

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Manager of La Maison Des Travaux Rouen

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

La Maison Des Travaux Rouen is a prominent general contractor that excels in delivering a wide range of construction and renovation services with a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

• We hired Exodata with the specific goal of IT staff augmentation. Our aim was to bolster our in-house IT capabilities by bringing in specialized professionals to support and enhance our technological infrastructure and systems.

SOLUTION

How did you find Exodata?

Clutch Site

Why did you select Exodata over others?

• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost

How many teammates from Exodata were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

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

The scope of work assigned to Exodata was detailed and comprehensive, encompassing a wide range of tasks and deliverables. 

Here is a detailed description, along with a summary of key deliverables: 

1. IT Staff Augmentation: Exodata provided us with a team of experienced IT professionals to supplement our in-house staff. This team included developers, system administrators, network specialists, and IT project managers. 
2. Technical Expertise: Exodata's experts offered their skills and knowledge to address our specific IT challenges. They assisted with system upgrades, software development, and network optimization. 
3. Project Management: Exodata took charge of project management for IT initiatives. They ensured that projects stayed on schedule, within budget, and aligned with our objectives. 
4. Ongoing Support: Exodata's team provided continuous IT support, offering assistance in resolving technical issues and maintaining system reliability. This support was available around the clock to minimize downtime. 
5. Strategic Guidance: Exodata consultants offered strategic insights and recommendations for the future of our IT infrastructure. They helped us plan for long-term growth, technology investments, and security enhancements.

Key Deliverables: As a result of Exodata's efforts, we achieved several key deliverables, including: 

• Increased IT team capacity, which allowed us to tackle multiple projects simultaneously. 
• Improved system performance and reliability through proactive maintenance and troubleshooting. 
• Successful completion of critical IT projects on time and within budget. 
• Enhanced cybersecurity measures, ensuring data protection and compliance. 
• Strategic IT roadmaps that align with our business goals, promoting long-term sustainability and growth. 

The detailed scope of work, combined with the successful delivery of these key outcomes, has significantly contributed to the overall effectiveness and efficiency of our IT operations.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The project with Exodata yielded several measurable outcomes that clearly demonstrate progress and success: 

• Increased IT Team Capacity: The addition of Exodata's IT professionals effectively expanded our in-house team's capabilities. This was quantified by the number of additional IT personnel brought on board. 
• Reduced Downtime: With Exodata's support, we experienced a significant reduction in system downtime and technical issues. The reduction in downtime was measured in terms of hours of uninterrupted operation. 
• On-Time Project Delivery: Projects managed by Exodata consistently met their deadlines, as evidenced by the number of projects completed on or ahead of schedule. 
• Cost Savings: Effective project management and streamlined IT operations resulted in cost savings. This was quantified by comparing the project budget to the actual expenditures. 
• Enhanced Security Measures: The implementation of improved cybersecurity measures reduced the number of security incidents and breaches, thereby enhancing data security. 
• Customer Satisfaction: Feedback from our clients and partners, as well as any increase in repeat business, served as a measure of customer satisfaction due to our improved IT services. 
• Long-Term Planning: The development and implementation of strategic IT roadmaps allowed us to measure our progress towards long-term objectives and growth targets. 
• Performance Metrics: Key performance indicators (KPIs) specific to our industry and organization were monitored and assessed to ensure that our IT systems were contributing to our business success. 

These measurable outcomes demonstrate the tangible progress and success achieved through our collaboration with Exodata, showcasing the positive impact on our IT capabilities and overall business operations.

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

Exodata's project management was a standout feature of their service. They consistently delivered items on time and demonstrated a highly responsive approach to our needs. 

Here's a detailed overview of their project management and responsiveness: 

• Project Management: Timely Deliveries: Exodata consistently met project deadlines, ensuring that deliverables were completed on time. Their commitment to punctuality was evident in the successful execution of various IT initiatives. 
• Effective Planning: They conducted thorough project planning, defining objectives, timelines, resource allocation, and risk assessments. This strategic approach contributed to the overall success of each project. 
• Clear Communication: Exodata maintained open lines of communication throughout the project lifecycle. They provided regular updates, progress reports, and addressed any concerns promptly. 
• Resource Management: They efficiently managed resources, ensuring that the right skills and personnel were assigned to each project. This resource allocation contributed to the successful execution of tasks. 
• Responsiveness: Proactive Issue Resolution: Exodata demonstrated a proactive approach to addressing issues and concerns. They swiftly identified and resolved any technical challenges that arose during project implementation. 
• Flexible Adaptation: In response to changing project requirements or unforeseen issues, Exodata displayed flexibility and adaptability. They adjusted their approach as needed to ensure project success. 
• Client Collaboration: Exodata actively sought our input and feedback throughout the project. They valued our insights and incorporated them into their planning and execution. 
• 24/7 Support: Their availability around the clock for urgent matters ensured that we had continuous support, which was especially critical for maintaining uninterrupted operations. 

In summary, Exodata's project management was marked by a commitment to meeting deadlines and responding to our needs with agility and effectiveness. Their clear communication, resource management, and proactive issue resolution made our collaboration productive and successful.

What was your primary form of communication with Exodata?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

What I found most impressive and unique about Exodata as a company was their unwavering commitment to delivering not just technical solutions, but a holistic partnership that added significant value to our organization. 

Specifically, the following aspects stood out: 

• Tailored Solutions: Exodata took the time to understand our specific IT needs and business goals. Their solutions were not one-size-fits-all but custom-tailored to address our unique challenges and objectives. 
• Highly Skilled Professionals: The caliber of IT professionals they provided was exceptional. Each team member brought a wealth of expertise and experience, contributing significantly to the success of our IT projects. 
• Proactive Problem Solvers: Exodata displayed a proactive approach to problem-solving. They didn't just wait for issues to arise but actively identified and addressed potential challenges, ensuring a seamless project execution. 
• Collaborative Partnership: Exodata's willingness to collaborate closely with our in-house team and actively seek our input fostered a true sense of partnership. It felt like they were an extension of our organization rather than an external service provider. 
• Dedication to Client Satisfaction: They consistently went the extra mile to ensure our satisfaction and success. Their commitment to delivering results was evident in their day-to-day operations. 
• Round-the-Clock Support: The availability of 24/7 support for urgent matters was a testament to their dedication and reliability in providing ongoing assistance. 
• Strategic Insight: Exodata not only resolved immediate IT issues but also offered valuable strategic insights to help us plan for the future and make informed decisions about our technology investments. 

In summary, Exodata's dedication to tailoring solutions, the quality of their professionals, and their proactive, collaborative, and client-centric approach made them an impressive and unique partner in the realm of IT staff augmentation. Their commitment to our success went well beyond technical expertise, making them an invaluable asset to our organization.

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

While our experience with Exodata has been overwhelmingly positive, there are a few areas where they could consider improvement or have done things differently: 

• Scalability Planning: Providing more proactive insights and planning for scaling our IT infrastructure in the long term would have been beneficial. This could involve offering more comprehensive roadmaps for future growth. 
• Documentation: Enhanced documentation of processes, configurations, and changes made during the project would have been valuable for our in-house IT team. Comprehensive documentation can aid in troubleshooting and knowledge transfer. 

It's important to note that these suggestions are areas for improvement, not criticisms. Exodata's overall performance has been excellent, and these recommendations are provided with the aim of further enhancing their already high level of service.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am an executive of Cigna

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

The Cigna Group is a for-profit American multinational managed healthcare and insurance company based in Bloomfield, Connecticut.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

• Cloud Migration

SOLUTION

How did you find Exodata?

Referral

Why did you select Exodata over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost

How many teammates from Exodata were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

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

Certainly, I'd be happy to outline the scope of work for our partnership with Exodata for the cloud migration project to Azure. Project Overview Cigna has engaged Exodata to assist in migrating our existing on-premises data center to Microsoft Azure Cloud. This migration aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and pave the way for future digital transformation initiatives. Scope of Work 

Assessment and Planning Phase 

1. Infrastructure Audit: Review current data center infrastructure to identify all the components to be migrated. 

2. Dependency Mapping: Identify dependencies between applications and services. 

3. Security Review: Perform a security assessment to identify potential risks and mitigation strategies. 

4. Migration Strategy: Develop a detailed migration plan including timelines, resources, and costs. 

Development and Testing Phase 

1. Environment Setup: Prepare Azure environment including virtual networks, storage, and other foundational elements. 

2. Proof of Concept: Test migration strategies on non-critical systems. 

3. Data Migration: Copy data to Azure Blob Storage or Azure SQL databases as appropriate. 

4. Application Migration: Use Azure Site Recovery or similar services for migration. 

5. Security Implementation: Implement Azure-native security features like Azure Active Directory, and Key Vault. 

Deployment Phase 

1. Data Sync: Ensure all data is synchronized between the on-premises and Azure environments. 

2. Cut-over Strategy: Finalize and execute the strategy for cutting over from the on-premises environment to Azure. 

3. Monitoring and Backup: Implement Azure Monitor and Azure Backup solutions for the new infrastructure. 

Post-migration Phase 

1. Performance Tuning: Continual monitoring and tuning of resources. 

2. Cost Management: Monitor usage and optimize resources to manage costs effectively. 

3. Documentation: Deliver detailed documentation outlining configurations, settings, and operational procedures. 

Key Deliverables 

1. Migration Plan: A detailed document outlining all aspects of the migration including timelines and costs. 

2. Security Assessment Report: A comprehensive analysis of security risks and mitigation strategies. 

3. Finalized Azure Environment: A fully functional Azure environment hosting all migrated applications and data. 

4. Post-migration Assessment: A report outlining the success metrics, performance benchmarks, and any identified issues post-migration. 

5. Operational Documentation: Manuals and procedures for the ongoing management of the Azure environment. 

By aligning these efforts, we aim to ensure a seamless migration experience that will not only transition our existing services to the cloud but also lay a strong foundation for future technology initiatives.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Tracking measurable outcomes is crucial for assessing the success of the cloud migration project. Here are some of the key metrics and outcomes that were used to gauge progress and success in our collaboration with Exodata: Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) 

1. Migration Time: Target to complete the migration within six months was achieved. 

2. Budget Adherence: The project was completed within 98% of the initial budget, allowing for minimal overruns. 

3. Downtime: Less than 4 hours of planned downtime, which is well within the 24-hour window initially allocated. 

4. Application Performance: Post-migration, application response times improved by 25% on average. 

5. Security Incidents: Zero security incidents or data breaches post-migration, validating the effectiveness of the implemented security measures. 

6. Resource Utilization: Achieved a 20% reduction in resource utilization thanks to Azure's auto-scaling features. 

7. Cost Savings: Realized a 30% reduction in operational costs in the first quarter post-migration. 

8. User Satisfaction: Post-migration surveys indicate a 15% increase in internal user satisfaction related to system performance and availability. 

9. Disaster Recovery: Successfully tested disaster recovery procedures, achieving a Recovery Time Objective (RTO) of 2 hours and Recovery Point Objective (RPO) of 15 minutes. 

Additional Outcomes 

1. Documentation Quality: Comprehensive, clear documentation was produced, making future maintenance easier. 

2. Regulatory Compliance: Successfully passed a post-migration compliance audit with no issues identified, demonstrating the effectiveness of the new cloud-based infrastructure in meeting industry regulations. 

3. Skill Enhancement: Internal team members gained valuable experience and training in cloud infrastructure management. 

4. Future-Readiness: The new Azure infrastructure is well-poised for integration with AI, machine learning, and other emerging technologies, thereby future-proofing our technology stack

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

Exodata employed a well-structured project management approach that was highly effective in ensuring timely delivery and alignment with our requirements. 

• Project Management Methodology: They adopted an Agile-Scrum framework for the migration project, allowing for greater flexibility and quicker adjustments to project deliverables. Regular sprint planning meetings and bi-weekly status updates ensured that everyone was aligned on objectives and timelines. 
• Timeliness: Exodata excelled in meeting deadlines. Milestones such as the initial infrastructure audit, development of the migration plan, and testing phases were all completed within the agreed-upon timelines. Any potential delays were communicated well in advance, with mitigation plans to reduce the impact. 
• Responsiveness: Exodata was highly responsive to our needs. They maintained an open line of communication through dedicated channels, ensuring that questions or issues were addressed promptly. Their project manager was available for ad-hoc meetings when needed, and they were proactive in offering solutions to any challenges that arose. 
• Change Management: Change requests were handled through a well-defined process that included impact assessment, approval, and then implementation. This ensured that any changes to the scope or deliverables were efficiently managed without causing delays or cost overruns. 
• Quality of Work: Their attention to detail was exemplary, particularly in ensuring that the Azure environment was secure and met all regulatory compliance standards. They were not just focused on "getting the job done" but rather on delivering a solution that would serve us well in the long term. 
• Stakeholder Communication: Exodata made sure to involve all the key stakeholders, including our internal IT team, security experts, and business leaders. This inclusive approach ensured that all concerns were addressed early on, making the final implementation smoother.

What was your primary form of communication with Exodata?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

What stood out most impressively about Exodata was their holistic approach to cloud migration. They went beyond the technical aspects to include strategic business alignment, operational efficiency, and future scalability.

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

Communication of Technical Details Although they were excellent in overall project communication, at times the technical details were communicated in a manner that was a bit too complex for stakeholders who were not well-versed in cloud technologies. Simplifying this information would make it easier for all stakeholders to grasp the full scope and implications of each phase of the project.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I'm an engineer at Oeconnection

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Builds Software for the Auto Industry.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

• Cloud Consulting
• Staff Augmentation
• Project Management

SOLUTION

How did you find Exodata?

Online Search

Why did you select Exodata over others?

• High ratings
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Exodata were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

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

Exodata assisted our teams with the build out of our new Azure environment. They worked with our engineers on building a plan for our landing zones and planning out the networking configurations needed for our cloud environments. They showed us the best practices for Azure landing zones and worked with us to implement them.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The collaboration with Exodata in building out our new Azure environment yielded several measurable outcomes that underscore the project's progress and success. Below are the key metrics and results achieved: 

• Timely Project Completion: 
  • Outcome: The project was completed on schedule, demonstrating effective planning and execution. 
  • Measurement: Comparison of project timelines from initiation to completion against the projected timeframes. 
• Enhanced Network Security and Efficiency: 
  • Outcome: Improved security and efficiency in the Azure cloud environment. 
  • Measurement: Reduction in security incidents and increased network performance metrics post-implementation. 
• Successful Implementation of Landing Zones: 
  • Outcome: Effective creation and deployment of Azure landing zones. 
  • Measurement: Successful setup and operation of the planned landing zones, with all functioning as intended without significant issues. 
• Knowledge Transfer: 
  • Outcome: Our team is now well-versed in Azure best practices, enhancing our internal capabilities. 
  • Measurement: Assessment of team knowledge pre and post-project, and successful independent management and troubleshooting of the Azure environment by our team post-project.

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

Exodata's project management approach was a critical component in the successful build-out of our new Azure environment. This section provides a detailed evaluation of their project management, focusing on timeliness, responsiveness, and adaptability to our needs. 

• Timeliness: 
  • Delivery of Items: 
    • Observation: Exodata consistently delivered items and milestones on time. 
    • Impact: This punctuality facilitated smooth progression and ensured the project stayed on schedule. 
    • Evaluation: Exemplary performance in terms of timeliness, contributing to overall project efficiency and success. 
  • Meeting Deadlines: 
    • Observation: Deadlines were met with a high degree of accuracy. Impact: Meeting deadlines prevented any delay-related complications, ensuring all project phases transitioned seamlessly. 
    • Evaluation: Highly effective in adhering to set deadlines, showcasing their commitment and organizational skills. 
• Responsiveness: 
  • Addressing Queries and Concerns: 
    • Observation: Exodata was prompt and clear in addressing our queries and concerns. 
    • Impact: Their responsiveness allowed for swift resolution of issues, preventing potential roadblocks. 
    • Evaluation: Outstanding responsiveness, ensuring continuous and unimpeded project flow. 
  • Adaptability to Feedback: 
    • Observation: Exodata readily adapted to our feedback and made necessary adjustments. 
    • Impact: This flexibility ensured the project outcomes were aligned with our expectations and requirements. 
    • Evaluation: Demonstrated commendable adaptability, ensuring project alignment with our goals and standards.

What was your primary form of communication with Exodata?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

In reflecting upon the collaboration with Exodata, several aspects stand out that not only underscore their professionalism and expertise but also set them apart as a unique and impressive company. Below are the key highlights: 

• Deep Technical Expertise: 
  • Observation: Exodata possesses extensive knowledge and experience in Azure environments and cloud infrastructure. 
  • Impact: Their deep technical expertise ensured that the project was executed flawlessly, with innovative solutions to complex challenges, enhancing the overall efficiency and security of our cloud environment. 
• Proactive Problem-Solving Approach: 
  • Observation: The team at Exodata proactively identified and addressed potential issues before they could impact the project. 
  • Impact: This approach minimized disruptions, ensuring the project stayed on schedule and within budget, and ultimately contributed to the smooth and successful execution of the project. 
• Exceptional Responsiveness: 
  • Observation: Exodata demonstrated outstanding responsiveness to our queries, concerns, and feedback. 
  • Impact: Their timely and clear communication facilitated swift resolution of issues and adjustments, ensuring alignment with our expectations and requirements throughout the project.

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

While Exodata demonstrated a high level of proficiency and commitment throughout the project, continuous improvement is essential for any organization's growth and excellence. Below are some areas and suggestions for enhancement: 

• Documentation: 
  • Observation: While the technical implementation was seamless, the documentation provided could be more detailed and comprehensive. 
  • Suggestion: Enhance the documentation process to include more granular details, step-by-step guides, and troubleshooting sections to serve as a comprehensive reference for clients. 
• Training Sessions: 
  • Observation: The knowledge transfer was valuable, but additional training sessions could be beneficial for various team members. 
  • Suggestion: Offer more extensive and detailed training programs, possibly with hands-on sessions, to ensure clients can independently manage and optimize their Azure environments effectively.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the owner

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Exodata?

Managed services

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Found on Google and cost and reliability

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

Set up and managed the workstations and servers in the new office.

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

Two resources and operations manager and head of IT

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

They did a wonderful job getting our workstations and server set up and going. They are still managing them and we are beyond happy.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Everything worked smoothly and efficiently

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

Their communication and reliability have been impressive.

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

No, I was happy with rh results