MNS Group

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the VP of IT at Hartford Bank.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with MNS Group?

In 2004, the IT department was a two-person team. Our bank had six branches and minimal internet access beyond dial-up. We wanted to consolidate internet access, and consequently needed an IT vendor to help us expand.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

MNS Group helps us with any problem, from an email, logins, firewalls, router programming, and staging servers. They supply bodies if we’re undergoing a network conversion. For example, we had to convert all eight branches in October 2018. The brought in 4 – 6 people to help us complete an onsite project before a branch opened at 9 A.M.

The team also manages cybersecurity, serving as a managed service provider (MSP) and managed security service provider (MSSP). MNS Group uses off-the-shelf software to support their business. However, as a bank, we are under a higher level of scrutiny for handling our non-public information. We have communication protocols that their other clients don’t. Currently, we’re considering multi-factor authentication through access tokens. We’ve placed that item on our agenda and budget for the upcoming year.

What is the team composition?

We’ve worked with the same account manager for the last two years.

How did you come to work with MNS Group?

In 2004, we were working with Toby’s (CEO, MNS Group) advertising partner and he introduced us to Toby. Toby created MNS Group from the IT side of their marketing business. We then hired MNS Group.

How much have you invested with them?

We spend $232,000 per year. Our monthly fee includes security software licenses.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in December 2004 and the partnership is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Toby has a keen business sense, but he isn’t in it for the money. As an IT consultant, he looks ahead at the future of security protocols in the banking industry. Toby doesn’t just provide an array of services, he’s a visionary that safeguards our best interests. He wants us our examinations with federal regulatory bodies to be successful.

How did MNS Group perform from a project management standpoint?

They use the ConnectWise ticketing system portal. We try to resolve problems—whether an aging server or non-functional desktop—during our monthly technology meeting. Those meetings benefit the ticketing process. But if it’s a real issue, we call our account representative and he gets help immediately. We try to be proactive to avoid numerous calls to MNS Group.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Toby runs a sophisticated operation. His team is approachable and knowledgeable; they’re receptive to all our ideas. I can’t say enough good things about this company.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No. If we had anything, we’d tell them in the tech meeting. It’s a great relationship.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Toby is a straight shooter that puts customer service above revenue. He’s always trying to save customers money.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the executive vice president of legal and administration at Sandler Training. We provide training and coaching for sales and sales management.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire MNS Group?

We needed network support and security services, managed IT services, and cybersecurity.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted technical assistance for our worldwide network of franchisees.

SOLUTION

Describe the project in detail.

MNS Group has been managing the network support and security services for our 60 corporate employees for the past six years. They provide technical assistance for over 250 franchisees as needed, and they helped implement a new telephone system and migrate our franchisees to Office 365.

What was the team composition?

A team of technicians at MNS Group worked with our internal team.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Their support and management behind the scenes have allowed Sandler to move ahead effectively with new goals and initiatives.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The technicians at MNS Group are always friendly, knowledgeable, professional and quick to help whenever we run into a computer, telephone or network issue.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

We’re extremely pleased with all of the services they provide.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, I can’t think of anything.