'Computers, tablets, smartphones, network, servers and everything that runs on them: that is Rank1's field of activity,' says Viviane Ponet, project administration and IT manager at Electro Zwijsen. 'Rank1 solves our IT problems and advises us on hardware and software. They secure our IT park with antivirus software and firewalls, create new users, install programs, make laptops work-ready, monitor licenses - you name it.'
Both the staff at the office in Duffel and the electricians and site managers at customer sites can turn to Rank1. 'When something goes wrong in terms of IT, either in Duffel or at one of our construction sites, Rank1 comes into action. As early as six in the morning, when our early birds get to work. They can be contacted for even the smallest problem, including weekends. When you have an IT problem, it's usually urgent, and Rank1 understands that.
Human click
'If the permanent system engineer is sick or goes on vacation, his colleague will fill in, and vice versa,' says Raf De Backer, Director of Professional Services at Rank1. 'This is how Rank1 guarantees continuity for the customer. We monitor the customer's IT infrastructure remotely, so we can intervene immediately when something occurs.'
'I don't hear any complaints, so everything is going well,' says CEO Tim Sablon, laughing. 'We chose Rank1 because of the people who work there. We are not buying a product but a service. The human click is really important. Once we had a permanent IT manager in-house but today we consciously choose outsourcing. The landscape is very diverse. You almost have to be a genius to know every aspect. Just try finding someone like that. With Rank1, we can count on a team of specialists.'
Servers and disks
'The migration of the Exchange server is the most recent project we accomplished together,' says Viviane Ponet. 'Recently, our Microsoft Exchange was upgraded to the latest version. Everything went smoothly, with no disruption to our users.'
'Currently we are also replacing the disks in laptops and PCs,' adds Raf De Backer of Rank1. 'With such a new Solid State Disk, we increase the lifespan of the device, avoid crashes and the devices work faster. It is a small investment with a positive return so that the total cost of ownership decreases. In this, too, we think along with the customer.'
Correct and down-to-earth
Electro Zwijsen has been working with Rank1 for a year. At set times, Rank1 consultants work on site in Duffel, says Viviane Ponet. 'Our people count on them. Even though the Rank1 consultants are not employees, it feels like they are part of the company. They know our IT park inside and out.'
'We have had negative experiences with other partners in the past. As a result, we know what we got from Rank1. Before we partnered with Rank1, it took hours or even days for a problem to be solved. Now it's a matter of minutes. If the house is on fire, Rank1 is there.'
For Tim Sablon, too, trust is a crucial factor in collaboration. "There are cowboys in the business. They take advantage of your lack of IT expertise. They recommend things you don't actually need. But we can build on Rank1. Their consultants are correct and down-to-earth.'
Crystal clear communication
Depending on the needs of the company, Rank1 enters into a contract with its clients for a particular service that allows for flexibility and offers transparency. For large projects, additional hours are agreed in advance. 'That flexibility is a big plus,' says Viviane Ponet. 'The communication is crystal clear. We are never faced with surprises. I definitely recommend Rank1. You won't find their service anywhere else. Their consultants are driven and passionate about their profession. They go to great lengths to solve a problem.'
Summary Electro Zwijsen has been active in the field of general electricity works in Belgium and Luxembourg since 1987. The Duffel-based company specializes in electrical engineering, fire and intrusion protection and data networks. Its main activity is the installation and maintenance of electricity lines in offices, apartments, stores or public institutions such as hospitals or public welfare centers. Notable projects include the electrical installation of the Stadsfeestzaal or Antwerp Zoo, as well as building cameras for license plate recognition. Its customers include Atlas Copco, ING, Veritas, JBC, Q-Park, Torfs, AZ Monica, AVA and Bpost. The company has 230 employees and achieved sales of 25 million euros last year.