This service is ideal for small- to mid-size nonprofits who can benefit from network capabilities and up-to-date productivity software but do not have the resources to implement or sustain the technology. Project Connect staff provide all remote server and support services.
Increased Productivity and Cost & Time Savings
Nonprofits gain network capabilities, shared files, and access to current Microsoft Office software by connecting to Info Line’s server through the internet.
Existing or donated computers can be used, eliminating the need to replace computers every 3-5 years.
No need for in-house technical staff or expensive, long-term vendor support.
Project Connect staff performs all networking functions: technical support, maintenance, troubleshooting, disaster recovery, software licensing, etc.
Nonprofits Need Networks to Impact Mission Fulfillment
Networks enhance staff productivity, maximize use of scarce resources, and directly impact the organization’s ability to accomplish mission-critical processes by enabling:
Internal communications and file sharing
External e-mail and internet connectivity
Device sharing
Security protocols
Disaster recovery
How it Works
The Traditional Server Network
Each nonprofit purchases the following:
Servers for file storage and device sharing which must be replaced every 3-5 years
Server software (operating, e-mail, system scanning, virus protection, etc.)
Back up system (and consumable back-up media)
Routers and firewalls for security protocols
Central hubs or switches to physically connect the computers to the network
Server modems for external internet access
Internet access (DSL, SDSL, T-1’s, etc.)
Staff computers which must be replaced every 3-5 years in order to handle increased software requirements
Software programs which must be updated every 2-3 years in order to maintain efficiency, share files with other agencies, and ensure ongoing technical support
Hardware and software support contracts, or per-call charges
Continuous software updates and vendor support are needed to maintain the network at efficient levels. Staff must be available for re-routing technical support to the vendor, basic troubleshooting, maintenance, updates, back-ups, etc.
Total cost of ownership of an internal network ranges between $10,000-$25,000 per year, depending on how much equipment is purchased, how much vendor support is needed to install and maintain it, and how many unforeseen crisis situations occur each year.
Project Connect’s
Remote Advantage Plan
Each nonprofit purchases the following:
Central hubs or switches with internal firewalls to physically connect the computers to the internet
Internet access (DSL, SDSL, T-1’s, etc.)
Remote Access Services from Project Connect
The nonprofit utilizes Info Line’s server to access all needed software and its data via the internet. Only the staff with authorized passwords will be able to access the nonprofit’s information. Nonprofit staff can open and edit needed files wherever the internet can be accessed (dependent upon sufficient licensing).
The nonprofit’s computers will not need to be upgraded. They will need to be replaced only if parts wear out. Donated computers can even be used. New or used computers can be purchased with only a Windows operating system and a network card.
Total Cost of operating a network on the Remote Advantage Plan starts at less than 10% of the cost of maintaining an internal network.
PLUS: Included in the Remote Advantage Plan:
Server access for file storage and device sharing
Server software (operating, e-mail, system scanning, virus protection, etc.)
Regular data back-ups and offsite storage of back-ups
Routers and firewalls for security protocols
Extended staff computer life
Current versions of Microsoft Office
Technical support for hardware issues
Technical support for Microsoft Office
Project Connect Staff Provides All Server & Support Services
Maintain and administer the secured network to prevent unauthorized access.
Maintain all software licensing.
Make daily tape back-ups of all data and keep them off-site.
Provide “shadowed” technical support. When troubleshooting, we can request permission to shadow the staff person. We then can see the person’s screen and talk the person through the problem. If necessary, we can make changes directly on that computer.
Project Connect Support
Via phone, e-mail, and shadowing
Unlimited & comprehensive
Provided by staff experienced in IT and nonprofit operations
Supported by Amos Data Systems and the resources of the Project Connect Advisory Council
Estimated Costs (Formal Proposal Developed after Inventory Assessment)
$650 per computer each year
$500 per user one-time set-up
Includes on-site inventory assessment; transfer of files; additional equipment may be needed
$600 per additional software program other than Microsoft Office
Nonprofit maintains all licensing
Ongoing internet access
All costs associated with obtaining internet access (including wiring, switches, and firewalls) are the responsibility of the nonprofit
Cost Savings & Convenience Advantages
No need for server & maintenance
Office software licensing included
State-of-the-art security system
No need for dedicated IT staff
No need for back-up media
Tiered technical support reduces on-site costs
No need for scheduled computer replacements
Also Available: 3-5 Year Technology Plan
Hardware, software, networking, and connectivity
Training based on staff responsibilities & abilities
Multi-tiered technical support
Disaster recovery plan
Policies for use
Ongoing maintenance & planned obsolescence
Strategies for successful implementation
The Next Step:
Contact Project Connect to schedule an introductory meeting: or 330-315-1335
Info Line, Inc. - Bringing people and services together since 1975
Project Connect Staff Provides All Server & Support Services
Cost Savings & Convenience Advantages
