Member Article

Ecus adopts pay-as-you-go cloud computing model

Environmental consultancy ECUS has become the first business in the UK to adopt a pay-as-you-go cloud computing model from Atlas Infrastructure Management (AtlasIM).

The transfer from traditional desk top PCs to cloud computing is a natural step for ECUS, as the virtual IT structure offers a lower carbon footprint and addresses carbon usage requirements for the foreseeable future – a stance that supports the consultancy’s commitment to the environment and its sustainable development policies.

Although cloud computing is no longer a new concept, the fully outsourced IT pay per use structure is and gives ECUS real-time knowledge of its IT costs, allowing it keep these low, budget accordingly and work highly efficiently.

The Sheffield-based consultancy is using ISO 14001 accredited AtlasIM to develop its IT strategy and manage both the changeover and its ongoing cloud requirements. A North East SME that is rapidly expanding due to the popularity of its operating expenses-only offer, AtlasIM has taken on six major clients since launching last year.

The development allows ECUS, which has just opened offices in the Midlands and Home Counties, to benefit from a secure data infrastructure, continuous access to technical updates and the ability to make better use of its data to grow the business.

Erica Kemp, business development director at ECUS, said: “This is a natural move for us as we continue to expand and the transition period has been much less challenging than anticipated thanks to the strength, experience and availability of the AtlasIM team.

“In addition to the obvious environmental benefit that comes from to switching to cloud computing, we have been hugely impressed by the high level of security it offers. Our staff can now access the data they need from wherever they are working without risk. We are able to deliver work more easily and cost-effectively, which has given us a huge competitive advantage in our business.”

Pete Watson, AtlasIM’s business development director, said: “ECUS is a multi-disciplinary business with staff based in multiple locations. Through our virtual desktops, we are able to create an efficient remote or home-working solution that is highly secure and to give ECUS’s staff secure access to their virtual desktops via their mobile devices so the team can provide the highest calibre client service at all times.

“Although the reduced cost-base is a huge pull for businesses, there are many other benefits to moving to the cloud. The replacement of ageing server and storage hardware no longer becomes a concern and we are able to store data digitally for years, helping companies fulfill their legal requirements without the worry of data loss.

“ECUS is a fantastic, burgeoning business and it’s great to have them on board and championing the way where IT resource efficiency is concerned.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah Waddington .