Data#3 delivers Cisco to WA's Edith Cowan University

Data#3 has transformed Edith Cowan University's wireless platform, making it five times more capable.

The platform run on next-generation Cisco network infrastructure architecture to connect students and staff across ECU's campuses in Joondalup, Mount Lawley and Bunbury.

The project started in late 2015 when Data#3 was awarded the "multimillion-dollar" deal.

ECU's previous network infrastructure was not well structured to respond to its rapid growth. The key element was to find a solution that was able to accommodate increasing mobility and connectivity demands from students and staff accessing the university’s services online.

The university had to rethink its wireless strategy to provide connectivity for the 27,000 students, said ECU chief information officer Elizabeth Wilson. "The replacement of the existing network with next-generation infrastructure enables the provision of advanced services such as rich multimedia learning experiences to students, faculty and staff across all our campuses, and is a key strategic pillar of the future learning environment at ECU."

Data#3 delivered strategy and design, implementation and will provide ongoing management. The solutions provider was selected from a panel of Cisco Gold partners and also because of its local professional services, national education experience and Cisco capabilities, according to Data#3.

ECU’s Technology Services team now has real time insights into network performance, improving decision making processes and risk management.

"Data#3 have exceeded our expectations across every aspect of the project. Their proactive approach, professionalism and attention to detail have ensured a seamless process from start to finish. I cannot recommend them highly enough," said Wilson.

Data#3 also provided radio frequency validation survey across the entire Cisco wireless LAN environment (indoor and outdoor), as well as management and mobile security platforms and the transition to Data#3 managed services for 24/7 support.

Data#3 chief executive Laurence Baynham said: "Helping customers to transform their business through innovative technology is central to Data#3’s strategy. The success at ECU is a testament to our ongoing investment in the education sector and our reputation in the market for delivering successful outcomes through education specific services."

The Brisbane-headquartered IT solution provider expects a 25 percent profit growth for the 2016 financial year with a net profit after tax between $13 million and $13.5 million.

Data #3 was named as a CRN MVP in both 2015 and 2016, in honour of its range of gold-level vendor partnerships.