7th March 2024 • The HERALD • Page 65 v THE HERALD - SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES v ASK A PROFESSIONAL Local Wildlife Charity Says Investment in IT Gives It Cutting-edge A local charity has been speaking about how its investment in IT has paid o . Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT) has eight o ces across its patch and employs 134 people, 86 full-time. Over the past ve years, it’s been working with Tottonbased Aura Technology to ensure its locations — o en in rural settings —benefit from being e ciently connected. e Trust is one of the largest of the 46 Wildlife Trusts that comprise the Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts across the UK. Together, they are one of the country’s most active and influential nature conservation partnerships, protecting wildlife in every part of the British Isles. Each Trust works within its local community to inspire people and bring about change. With the invaluable support of volunteers and members, Wildlife Trusts manages over 60 nature reserves, working with other organisations and landowners to protect and connect wildlife sites across the county and inspire local communities and young people to care for wildlife where they live. “Our relationship with Aura has been the major catalyst in providing us with the confidence to approach our digital transformation and to look at improving how we use IT to work effectively,” says Tara Puttock, Facility Manager at HIWWT. “These are tough trading conditions for every business, particularly in the third sector, and we must look for value for money without compromising delivery. While IT is an essential resource to any business, as a charity, we face additional considerations for growth, taking these considerations into account. It was important, too, that our IT partner shared our values for sustainability and conservation. We had a rigorous selection process, and the team from Aura was an absolute standout. We have not been disappointed. I honestly cannot recommend them highly enough.” Tara listed ve factors for success. “Firstly, Aura offers outstanding value for money, an essential ingredient in any relationship but especially for a charity where every penny spent is rightly scrutinised. Secondly, Aura always approaches us with hardware and software innovations to make their delivery even smoother. The fact they’re ahead of the curve is such a comfort. Thirdly, Aura might suggest an upgrade or new component – and if it can be sourced cheaper elsewhere, they will point us in that direction. That level of care and understanding for our position is a huge benefit. Fourthly, they listen and act upon feedback – a rarer quality than you might think. Aura is, first and foremost, service-driven and always looking to improve. And finally, everyone at Aura speaks in plain English. They’re always there and happy to hold my hand and take me through sometimes complex issues step by step. As a client, I value that.” Aura Technology’s Commercial Director is Richard Flanders. He said: “Tara and the HIWWT team are significant clients. Our ethos is straightforward. We are geared to deliver everything we can that is best for their business and ensure they meet their strategic goals. That means that if we can save them from spending money, that’s exactly what we do.” For more information, visit: www. auratechnology.com. such as budgetary constraints and the need for decisions to go through varying authorisation channels before approval. From the outset, in looking to appoint an IT company, we had to feel sure that we would have a partner who would not only have our best interests at heart but also be able to help us deliver on our strategy
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