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XMA Awarded Place on Major Public Sector Framework: Tech Devices – Link 4

We’re pleased to announce our successful placement on the highly anticipated Tech Devices – Link 4 framework. The placement underscores XMA’s commitment to serving the UK public sector and provides organisations, including the NHS, with easy access to a comprehensive range of essential technology. 

Securing a position on Tech Devices – Link 4 recognises XMA’s proven capability in supplying and supporting the diverse technology needs of public services. This framework simplifies procurement processes and ensures value for money. 

Through the Tech Devices – Link 4 framework, XMA can continue to offer our public sector customers an even broader and more easily accessible portfolio of end-user devices. This includes: 

• Core Computing: Laptops, notebooks, tablets, and desktop devices.
• Specialised Healthcare IT: Including workstations on wheels (WoWs), clinical reporting monitors, and vital infection control products designed for healthcare environments.
• Peripherals: Essential printers and scanners.
• Sustainable Options: High-quality refurbished and remanufactured IT goods, supporting environmental objectives.

This placement on the framework ensures that XMA’s public sector clients can efficiently procure the critical hardware they need, supported by XMA’s expertise and service commitment, ultimately benefiting service delivery across the nation. 

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Navigating Modern Network Challenges with XMA’s Cisco Insider Champion, Dale Warner

As more people interact with more devices, and from more locations than ever before, a robust, secure, and efficiently managed network is paramount. To shed light on current challenges and the solutions offered by Cisco and XMA, we sat down with our Solutions Architect and Cisco Insider Champion, Dale Warner.

XMA is proud to be a Cisco Premier Integrator and Select Provider, signifying our deep expertise and commitment to delivering cutting-edge Cisco solutions tailored to our customers’ unique needs. Dale’s insights, combined with XMA’s proven approach, offer valuable guidance for organisations looking to optimise their network infrastructure.

Here’s our conversation with Dale:

What are the most common network issues you see in the public sector today?

Dale Warner: “For me the three biggest issues I see are limited budgets, aging infrastructure and evolving cybersecurity threats. There are still lots of organisations relying on outdated network solutions, which has an impact on network performance, troubleshooting times, and the amount of potential security vulnerabilities.

Bridging the gap between legacy systems and modern network solutions can be an issue itself, especially if the business requirements have significantly evolved over time, this is where me and the other solution architects at XMA come in.

We are here to help customers review their current environment against their business needs, understand the market and identify what technologies are available, and turn customer end-goals into comprehensive designs.”

Why is ongoing visibility into network health so important now?

DW: “Proactive monitoring of network health is critical for any size organisation as it provides the real-time insights needed to prevent or decrease the amount of downtime and quickly address emerging issues before they escalate.

Modern network devices (switches, routers, APs, etc) are multifaceted and can act as network sensors, essentially becoming the eyes and ears of an infrastructure. Modern network management systems and health tools can then use a range of machine learning and AI analytics to help identify bottlenecks, anomalous activity, or early signs of cyberattacks.

It also helps form the foundation for predictive analytics and automated remediation.” 

How does Cisco Meraki simplify network management for stretched IT teams?

DW: “Cisco Meraki utilises a cloud-managed portal that brings together all aspects of network management, from configuration and monitoring to troubleshooting, under a single unified administrator dashboard. This ‘single-pane-of-glass’ stops IT teams from managing their environment through disparate systems and/or monitoring tools. Additionally, built in automation features help to simplify routine tasks, keeping firmware and security policies up-to-date, and providing real-time insights into network performance and threats.

For years Meraki has been driven ‘under the hood’ by AI powered assurance which has benefited smaller IT teams and delivered transformative results. Going forward, we are seeing more of the Cisco portfolio coming to Meraki with cloud management and monitoring available for 9300 and 9200L switches, along with unified licensing with the new Wi-Fi 7 APs.

We are also going to see Cisco’s AI Assistant available on Meraki soon, which will be massive for all customers but will be a game changer for smaller or stretched IT teams. This chat-based generative AI tool will automate routine tasks, detect network anomalies, and optimise performance with minimal human intervention. By leveraging generative AI technologies, it provides secure, AI-driven insights across devices, applications, and networks.” 

What’s different about XMA’s approach?

DW: “When it comes to Cisco networking and XMA, we distinguish ourselves through a true focus upon the customer; their organisational needs, their IT roadmap and journey, what their business does and how they best service their customers. Rather than a one-size-fits-all solution, XMA tailors its network solutions and designs to the specific and bespoke needs of its customers.” 

Cisco offer customers Enterprise Agreements, what does True Forward mean as part of them?

DW: “True Forward is Cisco’s innovative billing and licensing methodology for licensing and support that allows customers to scale their network usage without incurring retroactive charges.

Under a Cisco Enterprise Agreement, instead of having to perform a “true-up” at the point of purchase, True Forward moves any excess usage forward to the next billing cycle. Additionally, the costs are fixed at the start of the EA until renewal.

This means customers can grow their network capacity as needed, with predictable, forward-looking costs and no surprise penalties for scaling up. Essentially, it transforms the licensing process into one that is growth-friendly, aligning financial planning with business needs.” 

Congratulations on recently becoming a Cisco Insider Champion! How do you feel about it, and how does this help our customers going forward?

DW: “Becoming a Cisco Insider Champion is both an honour and a responsibility, and I’m really proud to have been recognised by Cisco as a technical contributor through my blogs. I feel incredibly excited and motivated, as this recognition places me in a unique position to engage directly with Cisco’s product and experience teams. It means having early access to cutting-edge innovations and channels for feedback that can shape future technology.

For our customers, this translates into benefits such as quicker access to new solutions, clearer insights into upcoming trends, and the assurance that their challenges and feedback are being heard at the highest levels.

It ultimately creates a vibrant, customer-centric ecosystem where innovation and real-world needs go hand in hand, and I get to become a voice in that community.” 

XMA’s Cisco Managed Services

Addressing the challenges of limited budgets, aging infrastructure, and stretched IT teams requires more than just technology; it requires expert management. XMA use our status as a Cisco Select Provider to offer comprehensive Cisco Managed Services.

We help organisations proactively monitor, manage, and optimise their Cisco environments, freeing up internal IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives while ensuring network performance, security, and reliability.

Our managed services provide the ongoing visibility and expert support needed to navigate the complexities Dale highlighted.

Take the Next Step with XMA and Cisco

Dale’s insights underscore the challenges and opportunities in modern networking. As a Cisco Premier Integrator and Select Provider, XMA is perfectly positioned to help your organisation navigate this landscape with tailored solutions and expert managed services.

Discover more about our partnership and capabilities on our brand new Cisco partner page. 

Ready to discuss how Cisco solutions can address your specific challenges? Get in touch with our expert team today. 

For more technical insights and perspectives from Dale, read his latest blog posts.

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XMA Announces Exclusive UK Partnership with Tsecond to Transform Data Handling with BRYCK® Technology

XMA are announcing an exclusive partnership with Tsecond, a pioneer in innovation for Edge infrastructure, including data capture, movement, inferencing, and storage. This collaboration brings Tsecond’s innovative BRYCK® technology to the UK market, offering both public and private sector organisations unprecedented speed, security, and efficiency for managing large-scale data along with AI inferencing capabilities for real-time data processing and analytics. 

In an era where data volumes are exploding, businesses and public sector bodies face significant challenges in moving large datasets quickly, securely, and cost-effectively. Traditional methods often fall short, creating bottlenecks and hindering progress. Tsecond’s BRYCK® technology directly addresses these challenges, providing a robust solution for ultra-fast, secure, and portable petabyte-scale data transfer. Its latest innovation, BRYCK AI, supports various AI workloads in communications and power-denied environments. 

Sahil Chawla, CEO of Tsecond, commented on the partnership’s broader vision: “Through our exclusive partnership with XMA Ltd, we’re empowering businesses across the UK, Ireland, and Europe to harness the power of Edge innovation. We’re delivering tangible improvements in data handling and edge inferencing – faster transfers, greater capacity, better portability, and increased efficiency – alongside a strong commitment to sustainability and customer success.” 

The partnership leverages XMA’s extensive market reach, established customer relationships, and deep expertise in deploying technology solutions across diverse sectors within the UK. XMA will be the sole provider of BRYCK® technology solutions and associated services throughout the UK.

Darren Howe, Strategy & Commercial Director at XMA, highlighted the immediate value for UK customers: “Our exclusive partnership with Tsecond introduces their groundbreaking BRYCK® technology, heralding a new level of data mobility and high-performance edge computing. By combining this technology with XMA’s reach, we’re equipping businesses with secure, sustainable, and scalable tools that truly enhance their data management processes.”

BRYCK® technology offers a compelling alternative for organisations dealing with massive data sets in fields such as research, media production, aerospace and aviation, government and defence, cloud seeding, edge computing, and data archiving. It enables rapid data movement, enhances data security through its physical nature, and offers a potentially more sustainable option compared to continuous large-scale cloud transfers. 

XMA and Tsecond are committed to supporting UK organisations in overcoming their data challenges and unlocking new opportunities through this powerful combination of technology and market expertise.

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Windows 10 End-of-Support is Coming. Are You Ready?

The clock is ticking. With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 in October 2025, Higher Education institutions face a critical challenge: how to manage potentially thousands of aging PCs that can’t run Windows 11.

Replacing entire fleets of devices is a massive expense, often exceeding already strained budgets. Ignoring the problem, however, leaves your institution vulnerable to security risks and compatibility issues.

XMA and Google offer a smarter solution: ChromeOS Flex.

ChromeOS Flex is the cloud-first operating system that breathes new life into your existing PCs and Macs. It’s a secure, fast, and easy-to-manage alternative to Windows, designed specifically for the demands of modern education.

Why ChromeOS Flex Is The Right Choice For Higher Education:

  • Drastically Reduce Costs: Avoid the massive expense of replacing hardware. ChromeOS Flex runs smoothly on older devices, extending their lifespan and potentially saving your institution thousands of pounds.
  • Simplify IT Management: ChromeOS Flex is cloud-managed, making deployments, updates, and security patches incredibly easy. Reduce the workload on your IT staff and free them up for more strategic initiatives.
  • Uncompromising Security: Protect student and institutional data with built-in virus protection, sandboxing, and verified boot. Automatic updates ensure you’re always protected against the latest threats.
  • Seamless Google Workspace Integration: Provide students and faculty with instant access to the familiar and powerful tools of Google Workspace for Education, including Classroom, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and more.
  • Enhanced Accessibility: ChromeOS Flex offers built-in accessibility features like screen readers, voice typing, and customisable settings, ensuring all students can participate fully in learning.
  • Promote Sustainability: Extend the life of your existing hardware and significantly reduce e-waste, demonstrating your commitment to environmental responsibility.
  • Addressing your concerns: ChromeOS Flex is designed for an easy transition. It is compatible with a large range of hardware. The Jumpstart program, offered by XMA, makes the change as smooth and easy as possible, with deployment and install handled.

Achieve Success With Chromebooks and ChromeOS Flex

ChromeOS Flex and Chromebooks have already seen success in the Education Sector. We implemented our Chromebook Library Loan Program with the University of Hertfordshire.

“They are quick to open and get started – we use them in guest mode, so no log in required and they auto connect to our UH wifi, the students loan them via our LapSafe lockers which uses our library management system.”

-University of Hertfordshire

Don't Wait Until It's Too Late.

Contact XMA today to schedule a consultation and learn how ChromeOS Flex and our Jumpstart Program can help your institution navigate the Windows 10 end-of-life transition smoothly, securely, and affordably. Request a demo or speak to an expert: [Link to Contact Form]

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Is Your Business Ready for the Future? 5 Reasons to Upgrade to Windows 11 with HP and XMA

For small to medium businesses (SMBs), staying ahead of the curve is crucial. That’s why the upcoming end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, is more than just a date on the calendar – it’s an opportunity. Here at XMA, we want to help your business not just survive, but thrive. And by upgrading to Windows 11, and doing it now, HP and XMA allow your business to do just that. You’ll not only benefit from better hardware and Windows 11, but you can save up to £45,000 with HP’s exclusive “HP for SMB” program!

But why the urgency? Let’s break down five compelling reasons: 

1. Security Isn't Negotiable – It's Essential

Your operating system is the foundation of your business’s digital security. Running an unsupported OS, like Windows 10 after its end-of-life date, is like building a house on sand. It exposes you to increased security risks, and the potential fallout – financial losses, reputational damage, and compliance headaches – can be devastating. 

Cyber insurance policies are also getting stricter. Many now require up-to-date operating systems, and failing to comply could mean denied claims or higher premiums. Sources like the NCSC.GOV.UK and business insurance providers like Hiscox highlight the significant cyber security risks that impact Small Businesses. Upgrading to Windows 11 is a crucial step in maintaining compliance and protecting your bottom line. 

2. Don't Get Left Behind with Unsupported Software

You rely on Microsoft 365 Apps and on-premises Office suites, right? After October 14, 2025, these crucial tools will no longer be supported on Windows 10 (Microsoft Support). This doesn’t mean they’ll instantly stop working, but it does mean no more phone/chat/email support, no security updates or hotfixes, and potential compatibility issues with new features. Even purchasing Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) won’t change this – your Microsoft 365 Apps will still be in an unsupported configuration. 

3. Time Flies – Don't Wait Until the Last Minute

Migrating to a new operating system isn’t an overnight task. It requires careful planning, stakeholder buy-in, and thorough testing. Even though Windows 11 is built on a similar platform to Windows 10, your IT team still needs time for compatibility assessments, pilot programs, and full deployment. 

And if you have devices that aren’t compatible with Windows 11, you’ll need to factor in procurement and supply lead times. The sooner you start, the smoother the transition will be. XMA, in partnership with HP, offers a Windows 11 readiness assessment service to streamline this process. 

4. Leverage the Power of Windows 11

Upgrading isn’t just about avoiding problems; it’s about embracing opportunities. Windows 11 offers significant benefits in security, productivity, and manageability (Microsoft). 

It comes with enhanced security features like hardware-based isolation, encryption, and malware protection. Combine that with HP Wolf Security, and you’ve got a robust defence against modern threats. Windows 11 is also designed for productivity, with features like Snap Layouts, improved Microsoft Teams integration, and even AI-powered enhancements. 

The result? Real-world ROI and lower IT costs. Forrester’s Total Economic Impact report provides a deeper dive into these benefits. Plus, modernising your systems with features like Autopilot and Autopatch (some features require Windows Enterprise) can streamline deployments and updates, freeing up your IT team’s time. You can calculate the savings you can make with Windows 11 Pro devices with this fantastic calculator! 

5. Save Big with an Exclusive HP Offer!

Here’s some fantastic news: HP is offering an incredible limited-time deal to help you save up to £45,000! Through the “HP for SMB” program, you can claim cashback when you trade in your old devices and upgrade to Windows 11. 

Here’s the breakdown: 

  • Claim £450 for each old device traded in. 
  • One trade-in per new device purchased. 
  • Maximum of 100 devices (£45,000 cashback) per business. 
  • Offer valid until April 30, 2025. 

Ready to Take the Next Step? 

Don’t wait until the deadline is looming. Embrace the future of business technology with Windows 11, HP, and XMA. We’re here to help you create a roadmap for a seamless and successful transition. Contact XMA today, and let’s get started! 

Here’s some further resources for a deep dive into Windows 11: 

  • IDC Executive Brief: The Refresh Imperative: The Value of Deploying New, More Secure, Generative AI Centric PCs Ahead of the Windows 10 End of Service  

 

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The Cost of Doing Nothing: Why Sticking to Old Tech is Risky for SMBs in 2025

Many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are reluctant to upgrade their technology due to concerns about cost or disruption. But in 2025, the cost of doing nothing might outweigh any perceived savings.

The Hidden Costs of Outdated Technology

1. Productivity Slowdowns

  • Aging devices and legacy systems are slow and prone to errors, causing teams to waste valuable time.
  • Example: Employees often face delays with older hardware, such as sluggish boot times or compatibility issues with modern software. Over time, these inefficiencies pile up, reducing overall team productivity.                         

2. Cybersecurity Risks

  • Outdated systems lack modern security protocols, leaving SMBs vulnerable to cyber threats such as ransomware or phishing.
  • Tie-In: Windows 11, available on Surface devices, offers advanced, built-in security features like secure boot and hardware-based protections to safeguard sensitive business data.

3. Collaboration Barriers

  • Hybrid teams depend on modern tools for collaboration, but older tech struggles to support cloud-based platforms like Microsoft 365.
  • Result: Teams face challenges in sharing files, co-authoring, and participating in seamless virtual meetings.

4. Increased Maintenance Costs

  • Outdated hardware often requires frequent repairs and downtime. These hidden costs can exceed the price of investing in newer, more efficient tools.

The Microsoft Ecosystem - A Unified Solution for SMBs

Many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are reluctant to upgrade their technology due to concerns about cost or disruption. But in 2025, the cost of doing nothing might outweigh any perceived savings.

1. Work and Collaborate from Anywhere

  • Surface Devices: Compact, portable, and equipped with long battery life, Surface devices are ideal for SMB employees working on the go.
  • Microsoft 365: With tools like Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint, teams can work together from anywhere, sharing files, co-authoring in real-time, and attending meetings virtually.
  • Seamless Integration: Surface is optimised for Microsoft Teams, offering high-quality cameras, noise-canceling features, and fast connectivity to ensure a premium video conferencing experience.

2. Safety and Security

  • Surface Hardware Security: Multi-layered security, including firmware, OS, and cloud-based protections.
  • Microsoft 365 Security: Tools like Intune and Defender for Business allow businesses to monitor devices and safeguard data remotely, ensuring peace of mind for SMBs managing a dispersed workforce.

3. Simplified IT Management

  • Features like Windows Autopilot and Microsoft Intune streamline IT management, enabling SMBs to deploy and manage devices without a large IT team.
  • These tools reduce complexity and ensure all devices are updated, secured, and running smoothly.

4. Cost Efficiency

  • Investing in modern tech can save money in the long term. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), SMBs can save up to $9,000 per device over its lifecycle by choosing Surface and Microsoft 365.
  • Fewer maintenance issues, increased productivity, and enhanced security all contribute to significant cost savings.

XMA – Your Partner in IT Modernisation

Microsoft Surface Gold Partner & Microsoft Cloud Solution Partner – Uniquely positioned to deliver with our Microsoft ecosystem expertise

Device Management As A Service Options- Supporting Deployment, management, Break/Fix thru to retirement and second/third life options.

Authorised service provider- With your own Account Manager, e can become a single point of contact for your School or Trust- Offering a seamless procurement process and support any hardware or repair tickets you have for Surface as an Authorised Service Provider.

Contact XMA today for a free consultation and see how upgrading to Microsoft Surface, Microsoft 365, and Windows 11 can transform your business.

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Rocket League and eSports come to Sheffield

XMA are proud to announce the completion and launch of Sheffield United Community Foundation’s first eSports gaming lab. This gaming lab will be a pivotal hub for uplifting gamers across the community into potential careers, whilst also acting as a beacon for team-spirit and collaboration for many young people who enjoy their favourite team-based games.

As interest in esports has grown over the years, communities have taken note. The announcement of the Esports Olympic games, to be held later this year, has ignited the passion of gamers everywhere – on both a national and local level. For many, esports offer a level playing field, championing exclusivity and the chance for anyone, if they’re good enough, to take up the mantle of an esports champion. SUCF hopes that they can facilitate home-grown talent.

XMA took this opportunity in stride, contacting and working with industry-leading partners to make this happen for SUFC. The foundation of a gaming lab is the hardware, the PCs that power the games. XMA partnered with Overclockers, the UK’s leading PC building company, to custom-build PCs that handle any game thrown at them. XMA’s designers also create bespoke Rocket League (one of the Esports Olympic-eligible games) decals to showcase team spirit.

'' Coordinating the gaming project with AOC, SteelSeries, and Overclockers was incredibly positive. Each vendor brought their expertise in monitors, peripherals, and PCs, which created a collaborative atmosphere and great customer interaction. Having them on-site together led to a smooth and successful project with positive customer feedback. " - David Hearn, eSports Solutions Architect, XMA

AOC were the trusted partners providing monitors for the lab. Their monitors deliver crystal-clear images to give gamers that competitive edge. SteelSeries provided the peripherals, such as playmats, mic, keyboards, and headsets. As industry-leading partners, this highlighted the commitment to providing the best technology to local communities, giving gamers the best chance to level up and soar through the leagues.

Through the support of our partners, and the hard work of our team, XMA are incredibly privileged to have had a hand in bringing eSports to the Sheffield community. It signifies our commitment to collaboration and unity, as well as our drive to provide communities with new ways to engage and excel.

A Creative’s Dream Come True!

Our Studio Lead Nicola Whitely give us her hands-on impression with AOC’s U3 Graphic Pro monitor. Will it hold up to her busy work schedule and deliver on it’s promises? Find out below!

The 32” AOC U3 Graphic Pro monitor (To give its full name, the U32U3CV) is an absolute game-changer for any creative! As a Graphic Designer working on multiple projects with different design requirements, I need a monitor that can keep up with demanding workflow and this one certainly delivers.

The colour accuracy is phenomenal. The monitor comes with Calman Ready technology, meaning that it takes a fraction of the time to calibrate compared to the previous monitors I’ve had. It took me a few minutes, compared to other monitors where I’ve fiddled with settings for the better part of a day. It delivers 98% DCI-P3 coverage and 100% Rec. 709 coverage, which means colours are vibrant and true-to-life, essential when presenting work. And with Delta E <2 colour accuracy, I can trust that what I see on screen is what I’ll get in my final output. I don’t have to worry now about colour inaccuracy!

I’m dedicating a full paragraph just to the fact it’s Vesa Certified DisplayHDR™ 400. I’ve worked with “HDR compatible” screens in the past, and they have never fully delivered on their promise. True DisplayHDR™ 400 is a game-changer, delivering outstanding brightness, contrast, and colour peak brightness of up to 400 nits. It’s genuinely felt like I’ve been working in the stone age on past monitors, I’m never going back to anything that does not have this certification.

But it’s not just about performance, it’s about comfort too. I really appreciate how sleek and modern the design is, and the 32” 4-side frameless screen makes it feel like I’m working on a canvas rather than a monitor. The adjustable height, tilt, and swivel mean I can find the perfect ergonomic position, even after hours of staring at the screen. No more stiff neck and aching back! The aesthetics make it feel high-end and fit for the discerning creative.

If you’ve done any creative position, you know you’ll be juggling devices, and living with a desktop that represents a jungle is frustrating! With the Graphic Pro monitor, this is now a thing of the past, and I can reclaim my desk space back! The USB-C connection is a lifesaver, allowing me to connect my laptop and charge it simultaneously with just one cable. I don’t really know what to do with all this free space! (maybe more half-full water bottles?)

Overall, the AOC U3 Graphic Pro monitor is a dream come true for any Designer. It’s got the colour accuracy, connectivity, and comfort I need to tackle any project, all in a stylish package.

If you’re serious about your creative work (which I hope you are if you’re reading this), this is the monitor for you!

If your creatives need a boost, a new monitor might be just what they need!
Contact us at avuc@xma.co.uk and let us help bring a fresh perspective to their creative work.

5 Key Takeaways from BETT 2025

We’re back from BETT 2025, buzzing with insights into what’s next for edtech. So, what were the biggest takeaways? Here’s what stood out to us at XMA:

1. AI is Taking Over (In a Good Way!)

Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a buzzword anymore – it’s here, and it’s changing how we learn and teach. The interest in AI-powered devices was through the roof, and as the only stand showcasing the full Microsoft Surface range, we had a front-row seat to the excitement! Copilot+, AI integration, and the new Project Spark had everyone talking.

Our live speaker session demonstrated the capabilities of Copilot+ and NPU on the big screen, showing just how transformative these tools can be within the classroom.

2. Independent Schools Want Premium Tech

It’s no secret that independent schools like to stay ahead of the curve, and this year, how premium devices attract the best talent. The two-in-one laptop-tablet hybrid is fast becoming the go-to option, with stylus functionality considered an absolute must.

If schools want to stand out and attract students, embracing devices built for AI seems to be the way forward.

3. Device Repairability is a Big Deal

Let’s be honest – tech breaks, and schools and parents are fed up with expensive repair bills. That’s why there was a real focus on highly repairable devices this year. Schools are looking for flexible ways to keep devices running longer, even after warranties expire.

Good news: XMA, with expertise in break-fix services and strong relationships with major tech vendors are here to help educational institutions with solutions that reduce costs and hassle.

4. eSports is Booming in Education

eSports is rapidly growing in popularity, with more schools and universities investing in dedicated gaming programs. Why? Because it’s an incredible way to engage students, attract new enrolments, and even bring in revenue.

The high-powered computers used for eSports aren’t just for gaming – they double up as serious workstations for demanding tasks like video editing and coding.

5. Windows 11 – It’s Time to Get Ready

If you’re still running Windows 10, it’s time to start planning your upgrade. With support for Windows 10 coming to an end, sticking with it will soon become a security nightmare. The transition to Windows 11 isn’t just about hitting ‘update’ – it’s a big job, especially when you’re managing thousands of devices across a school or university.

The good news? We’re experts in making this process smooth and stress-free. If you need help navigating the transition, XMA is here to guide you every step of the way.

A Huge Success – and an Exciting Future Ahead

BETT 2025 was an incredible event, and we loved reconnecting with so many schools, colleges, and universities. As Michael Conlon, our Education Transformation Consultant, put it: “We were taken aback at how many customers, old and new, were delighted to see us at BETT.

It's been such a rewarding experience for our team to network and collaborate on how we can use technology to improve outcomes for students and educators alike.”

If you’re looking for expert guidance on edtech solutions, XMA is here to help. Drop us a line at outcomes@xma.co.uk – let’s transform the future of education together!

XMA’s CTO Terry Chana on G-Cloud 14: Driving Public Sector Digital Transformation

XMA's inclusion in the G-Cloud 14 framework marks a significant milestone for the company. We sat down with CTO Terry Chana to discuss what this means for XMA and the public sector.

With over 17 years in the IT sector, Terry Chana leads XMA's charge in helping customers achieve their technology goals. "As CTO at XMA, my role is to keep our customers’ technology goals front and centre. My team and I focus on understanding our customers—their challenges, their ambitions—and we work together to design IT strategies that strike the right balance between practical solutions and innovative thinking. By partnering with established and emerging tech providers, we help organisations harness the power of advancements like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI to deliver real, transformative results.”

G-Cloud 14: A Gateway to Digital Transformation

For Chana, XMA's inclusion in G-Cloud 14 is more than just a win for the company. "It enhances our ability to support the public sector in its digital transformation journey," he explains. "It provides a compliant procurement route to deliver secure, scalable, and impactful digital solutions and services, streamlining operations and enabling organisations to focus on what they do best — serving their communities."

XMA's commitment to outcome-driven solutions is what sets them apart. Chana cites a recent example. “One public sector organisation sought to modernise its digital environment to better support staff and service users while addressing inefficiencies in processes and services. They needed an integration platform to connect systems, automate workflows, and enhance user experiences.

Through G-Cloud, XMA delivered an enterprise integration platform, a strategic roadmap, and a blended delivery team to address skill gaps. Additionally, we developed a future-proof integration strategy, accelerating IT project delivery by an average of 78% and achieving significantly faster time-to-market. This highlights how XMA’s expertise in tailored and scalable solutions enables organisations to tackle complex challenges and achieve meaningful results.”

Why Choose XMA?

Chana understands the pressures facing public sector organisations today. "Rising costs, tighter budgets, and the need to modernise while doing more with less are all challenges," he acknowledges. XMA's response? Outcome-driven solutions that help organisations save and reinvest in further digital initiatives.

"Low-code application development can reduce development costs by 45%, the right tools can reduce service desk tickets by 15%, AI in contact centres can improve first-call resolution by 20%, and optimised cloud strategies can lower spending by 30% while boosting performance," Chana explains.

“With our Stabilise, Standardise, and Optimise framework, we provide a structured, tailored approach that addresses each organisation's unique needs. What makes XMA combine technical expertise with deep sector knowledge, ensuring solutions are impactful, sustainable, and directly aligned with public sector priorities.”

Key Offerings and Innovative Services

Chana goes on to highlight some of XMA’s key offerings not just on G-Cloud 14, but also the many other frameworks which XMA sits on.

“XMA's portfolio covers a wide range of services, including:

  • Cybersecurity and Information Security
  • Cloud Consultancy, Implementation, and Support
  • Application Modernisation
  • Integration Services
  • Project Delivery and Capability Enhancements
  • Comprehensive Service Desk
  • Device Management as a Service

We specialise in enhancing existing capabilities and driving engagement, all while adhering to public sector technology and security standards. Our holistic approach ensures that every solution is secure, compliant, and geared toward delivering measurable improvements in efficiency and user experience.”

Chana goes on to explain how XMA commits to both security and ESG. “Our SMART framework—Secure, Manageable, Agile, Responsible, and Technology-driven—is central to our approach. We help customers ensure digital services are secure, accessible, and inclusive, while also assessing the carbon impact of their technology estate. Beyond this, we support reducing energy waste and costs with energy-efficient, connected buildings.

  • SMART Workspace - Consultancy, Implementation & Support
    • Windows 11 Readiness Assessment
    • M365 Copilot Assessment
  • SMART Buildings - Consultancy, Implementation & Support
    • Data-Driven Building Portfolio Advisory
    • Digital Estates & FM Advisory

This framework empowers organisations to achieve their security and ESG goals through innovative services and solutions. XMA’s ability to seamlessly integrate sustainability and security into IT strategies makes us a trusted partner for public sector transformation.”

Looking Ahead

Chana's vision for XMA is clear: "To remain a leader in IT innovation." He's particularly excited about trends like intelligent automation, generative AI, and enhanced data integration, which are reflected in XMA's SMART Data offerings:

  • Intelligent Automation Advisory Service
  • Generative AI Advisory Service
  • Data Integration & Intelligence Advisory Service

"What sets XMA apart is our commitment to staying ahead of the curve while focusing on delivering solutions that seamlessly connect employee and customer experiences, creating a cohesive and impactful Total Experience," Chana concludes.

If you'd like to learn more about how XMA can help your public sector organisation leverage the power of G-Cloud 14 and other frameworks your organisation uses, contact us at outcomes@xma.co.uk.

To explore the other frameworks XMA is positioned on, visit our website or read our full guide here.

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