Strident enhance customer service through cloud-based systems

Novus Integration needed to remotely monitor and manage the energy requirements across multiple stores on behalf of leading UK supermarket. There is a huge amount of data for one store but when this is multiplied by stores across the country, a robust and secure remote management system is essential.

As Microsoft Azure Certified experts, Strident was able to develop a bespoke solution to Novus's requirements quickly and effectively.

Novus Integration is an independent building energy management systems business based in Hampshire with blue-chip clients across the UK. The team at Novus has many years of experience installing and supporting BEMS for heating, ventilation, refrigeration and air conditioning systems in buildings.

"Modern buildings use sophisticated digital control systems to manage their energy usage. In a supermarket, for example, this can extend from the lighting in the car park to the refrigerators in the store," explains Andy Bridger, Operations Director at Novus. "Energy use has to minimised while keeping store customers and staff comfortable and ensuring fridges are running efficiently."

Remote management via Microsoft Azure

To build the management system, Strident was recommended to Novus. "Our expertise is on the design, installation and commissioning of the stores' local control systems. Strident did a brilliant job working closely with the supermarket's IT team to feed that data securely to the cloud," adds Andy.

Microsoft Azure is a range of highly robust cloud services. Strident used cloud-based servers and VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to create the online management system.

Enhanced customer service

Significantly reducing the need for engineers to visit stores, the system enhances the service Novus offers and directly improves the customer experience within the supermarket stores.

"We can access an extensive set of data from anywhere on a laptop, tablet or smartphone. This enables us to offer the highest level of customer service and proactively monitor and resolve issues," says Andy. "It is essential for the smooth operation of our customers' businesses."

Microsoft Azure Certified experts

"Businesses are seeing the benefits of cloud-based systems to provide improved products and services. Proven tools with Microsoft Azure platform allow bespoke systems to be created cost-effectively and securely," added Chris Joberns, Managing Director at Strident.

To find out how Microsoft Azure can power your business, call Strident on 01473 835 280.