Archive

By Bruce Daniels
Defence Business Development Director
Specialising in Defence and National Security Organisations

As society itself has become more technologically sophisticated, the environment in which police operate has altered too. Crime is changing, citizens are more connected and media scrutiny demands instant answers – all while funding has declined and support teams have had to learn to work remotely.

Police need tech that can keep up. That can adapt to flexible ways of working, boost productivity and respond to change as a whole.

And that’s not all. Security and sustainability are also at the top of the list when choosing IT. Plus, any new investment needs to be easily integrated into the systems and processes that already exist – increasing efficiencies while decreasing frustration.

It sounds like a lot to ask. But it’s achievable when you put the right devices into people’s hands – and there’s one particular device that ticks all the boxes.

Devices designed to perform

Microsoft Surface devices are made for modern policing. And part of their appeal is adaptability – a range that matches different needs in different environments.

The requirements of police officers working out in the field can be met with a device such as the Surface Pro 8, a lightweight 2-in-1 that provides laptop performance with tablet flexibility.

Desk-based activities can be completed with the Surface Laptop 4, powerful devices with cutting-edge processors. And the general need for flexible, agile working can be taken care of with accessories such as docks, adapters and Teams certified audio accessories.

Crucially, users also get real-time data accessibility and can connect from anywhere with LTE devices, giving the information and connection to colleagues at their fingertips.

But this flexibility and connectivity doesn’t come at the expense of power. With Surface, you get fast RAM, modern chipsets and all-day battery.

For example, users of the Surface Go 3, the lightest and most affordable device in the range, benefit from a fast Intel® Core™ Processor, the full version of Windows 11 and an 11-hour battery life.

All of this is backed up by a range of accessories designed to transform the ultimate policing PC into a rugged mobile solution made for many different types of police work.

In fact, with a wide range of products to choose from, most of which you can find on our website, Surface devices will suit any need a police service might have.

Simplicity and security

Another plus point of Surface is how easily it can be integrated with Microsoft apps and police software and programs. This can really make the difference between disjointed experiences that cause friction and impact efficiency and a seamless user experience that’s simple, familiar and effective.

This simplicity factor is important for deployment too. Police officers and support staff ideally want to get devices that are ready to go, straight out of the box – and that’s why Windows Autopilot is so handy.

Simply unbox and turn on a Surface device – Windows Autopilot will configure it from the cloud in a few steps. It’s incredibly hassle-free.

Now, it goes without saying that security features are hugely important on any device that’s used as part of police work. Officers and support staff need to maintain control over their data, keeping it safe from interception, while keeping threats such as malware well away from their devices.

This is where Modern Device Management adds support and protection to Surface, through:

As more and more police services move to modern cloud management systems, technology that integrates seamlessly with it, like Surface devices do, will become invaluable for effective policing.

Responsible sustainability

Organisations in both the public and private sectors are placing a higher and higher value on sustainability, and policing is no exception. It’s therefore good to know that Microsoft is leading the way in tech sustainability, which means another tick in the box for Surface.

The Surface range represents technology that meets rigorous eco-standards across the entire lifecycle, including through improved energy efficiency and extended battery life. Microsoft is also increasing its use of recycled materials and has committed to 100% recyclable packaging and Surface devices by 2030.

Surface for policing, with XMA

Easy integration. Performance, productivity and collaboration. Enhanced user experiences. Secure, sustainable and simple to deploy and manage.

When you list the ways in which Surface can benefit policing, it makes it worthwhile finding out more. And that’s where we come in.

XMA is a Microsoft Surface Gold Partner, and our Microsoft-accredited experts will work with your organisation to design best fit solutions. We also have strong levels of stock, so there’s no need to wait several months to roll out your new solution. We can get it to you quickly and effectively.

Want to know more? Click here

As a strong believer in advancing education techniques and standards, Apple created the Apple Distinguished Schools (ADS) programme to highlight centres of excellence and innovation at every level of education.

Achieving an ADS accreditation is no easy task. In fact, no whole university in the UK has held the coveted accreditation. Teesside University set out ambitious plans through its Future Facing Learning strategy to change this.

With support and guidance from XMA, Teesside was able to deploy over 6,000 iPads to lecturers, along with a training plan to develop its staff into accredited Apple Teachers through weekly remote learning sessions, made essential by Covid restrictions.

This new status recognises Teesside University as one of the world’s most innovative institutions when it comes to the implementation of Apple learning technology.

As an Apple Authorised Education Specialist, XMA was ideally placed to support Teesside’s ambition. XMA has also assisted education establishments at all levels of education, including St John Paul Primary School and Castlemilk High in Glasgow, St Cyres School in Penarth and Tynecastle High School in Edinburgh.

“Our students challenged us to think differently,” says Professor Mark Simpson, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning and Teaching)

“Teesside University students are innovative, ambitious, creative and entrepreneurial. They break the mould.”

The university’s Future Facing Learning Strategy aims to deliver a differentiated educational experience that is truly forward looking, rather than fitting pre-defined expectations around teaching and learning.

Teesside University sought to better enable students and educators to work together as peers, remove geographical barriers and improve accessibility.

The investment in Apple technology “takes learning out of the classroom and makes it part of everyday life.”

“By placing technology at the heart of the learning model, we have been able to transform the way we teach and the way our students learn.

“Teaching staff are encouraged to experiment and to try new approaches. Apple technology has empowered teaching staff to think differently.” Says Professor Mark Simpson, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning and Teaching).

The technology now allows Teesside University students to access learning resources and content whenever and wherever it suits them, which has proved invaluable as the education world at large has embraced hybrid learning.

During the implementation of this technology platform, Teesside University staff discovered that the devices need to become integral to all aspects of the institution, not just the classroom, and that appropriate training and skill-building across the university must be a focus.

Because of this, the university is developing digital solutions for wider collaboration and remote working, as well as for student support and wellbeing services.

“We feel that Future Facing Learning is having a transformative impact at Teesside and we’re keen to share this and see others learn from our experience.

“Hopefully [this status] will help others easily identify Teesside as a beacon of best practice and a critical friend in supporting others to devise digitally driven transformation.”

XMA are a supplier of Apple technology and services through the HEPCW National Framework Agreement. The framework agreement is built around the supply of products using Apple Native Operating Systems, Associated Accessories and Services.

XMA have been named one of the successful suppliers regaining their position on the National Framework Agreement for Apple products and services.

The framework agreement is built around the supply of products Using Apple Native Operating Systems, Associated Accessories and Services.

This Framework Agreement seeks to establish an effective supply channel for the provision of Apple manufactured equipment utilising the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) operating systems (currently MacOS, iPadOS, iOS and Watch OS) and any future additional proprietary operating systems which may be implemented during the period covered by the Framework Agreement. The agreement is available to any universities that are members of one of the participating UK Universities Purchasing Consortia (UKUPC).

XMA are an Apple Authorised Education Specialist whose knowledge and expertise have seen us providing Apple technology solutions for higher education for many years. By purchasing Apple technology through XMA you can:

• Access a range of value-added services
• Take advantage of special education pricing
• Enjoy a minimum three-year warranty on all OSX and iOS devices
• Relax knowing that we’re a supplier capable of integrating with institutional e-procurement solutions

Mark Bailey, Head of Higher Education at XMA had this to say:

“We are delighted to have been selected to partner the Higher Education Purchasing Consortium Wales for the provision of Apple technology and services. We are dedicated to provide the best value and service to the education sector and are able to achieve this by working collaboratively with organisations such as HEPCW. We are committed to providing an enriched procurement experience for institutions, staff and students. XMA provides compelling experiences that attract students and support new ways of learning.”

The new agreement went live as of the 1st November 2021. Find out more about XMA and Apple in higher education here Apple in Higher Education | XMA

In residential care, face-to-face engagement is vital for wellbeing. But, over the past year, it’s sadly become all but impossible for families to visit and for normal activities to take place.

To help care home residents live their best lives in care and stay connected with their loved ones throughout the pandemic, NHSX recently rolled-out 11,000 iPads and support packages to qualifying homes across the country1.

But iPad isn’t just for emergencies – having access to these user-friendly, high-performance and secure mobile devices can really make the difference between a good care home experience and a great one.

With an intuitive interface and an expanding library of apps offering everything from health monitoring to gaming, iPad helps improve the experience of care home residents and assists staff to provide care more effectively.

There are many more reasons why all residential care facilities should consider investing in shared iPads. Here are just a few:

Connect with loved ones

There’s no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated isolation and loneliness. Being able to use apps such as FaceTime and iMessage for video calls and messaging provides a vital lifeline for residents and their families. The portability of the iPad means that staff and residents can use them from anywhere – from the bedside, the garden or the point of care. SIM-enabled models allow iPads to be used outside WiFi range.

Staff should look to undertake training on privacy and security protocols when first using iPad. The Apple specialists at XMA can assist with this training, as well as ongoing support to help users get the most out of their iPad.

Attend medical appointments from anywhere

Just as video conferencing can be used to stay in touch with family and friends, it can also be used to contact doctors and other healthcare providers. If it is impossible for these professionals to visit the care home personally or for the resident to travel to a clinic, video appointments can serve as a good alternative.

The beauty of using shared iPads for this is that care and advice can be provided at the convenience of the user. Information could then be sent straight to the device during or after the call.

Instant access to information at the point of care

Specifically designed apps on iPad allow doctors, nurses and care staff quick and secure access to patient records, wherever they may be working. In a care home environment, this can ensure that everyone is given their prescribed medications correctly. iPad apps can also help staff keep detailed and accurate notes as they work.

Health data is secured when downloaded over an encrypted connection, and never transverses Apple’s network, meaning staff and residents retain control over their data. Users are further protected by biometric security features like Touch ID, as well as regular updates and built-in safeguards that ensure both third-party and Apple apps only access data when authorised.

Bring fun and games into care

Applications can help care home residents get more out of their stay.

For example, creative apps from Apple and third-party sources can allow users to create and enjoy music or art (for example, GarageBand and Apple Books). Such apps can make all the difference to someone with limited movement or access to materials. iPads can also be used for games and entertainment, becoming sources of comfort and communal activity.

Third-party applications like Cove and Thrive have been designed to support aging patients who might be living with dementia, anxiety or other related conditions, improving quality of life.

Access NHS information

With the iPad, staff can stay up to date with NHS information, perhaps the most important of which is the secure internal service NHSmail.
We’ve seen how important access to information has been over the past year. iPad allows teams to collaborate and coordinate, ultimately providing a better experience for residents and an easier workday for staff.

Deploy devices to best practice with XMA

We know every care home is different, with its own challenges, culture and ways of working. We also know how important it is to give residents all the benefits of modern technology to make their time in care more comfortable and engaging.

That’s why our Apple device services – from deployment and configuration to device refresh and BuyBack – are all designed with your needs and best-practice in mind. The potential of iPads in a care setting is huge.

XMA is delighted to announce an exciting new partnership with HP Inc. HP has been selected as XMA’s education partner of choice, after a detailed review of the XMA education blueprint proved the brand offered the right hardware solutions for education, and was well placed to support schools.

Based on significant quantities of expertise, the new ‘Recommended by XMA’ range has been specifically built to meet the changing requirements of education, and designed to ensure any hardware solution remains relevant from a pricing, availability, security and safeguarding and product specification perspective.

HP products are tried and tested in the classroom, and benefit from over 30 years’ experience in the education market from XMA. Every product in the ‘Recommended by XMA’ range faces rigorous testing to ensure it reaches set standards for performance, durability, build quality, functionality, security and design, making sure they’re good enough for schools, while remaining commercially attractive. To further this cause, a range of payment options are available.

Building on a long and successful relationship across multiple industry verticals, John, Director of Commercial Programmes at XMA, said of the new education partnership:

“We are very excited to be partnering with HP to support education in the UK. Our combined expertise will allow us to deliver highly impactful technology solutions to schools and colleges, helping to make the experiences of teachers, students and administrators better and more exciting.”

Natalie Pilgrim, HP Channel Sales Manager UK&I:
“HP and XMA have worked together in Education for over 35 years. Not only do we share a very strong operational partnership together, HP and XMA ; we have long standing engagements with Microsoft and Google to support the integration of the wider education ecosystem for educators. We are proud of our joint partnership that has delivered brilliant outcomes across thousands of schools, colleges and Universities across the United Kingdom. We never sit still in how we design, integrate, train and serve our joint customers. Education is the heartbeat of what XMA and HP do and we will continue to work hard to maintain and grow the strong affinity we have with our many education customers across the UK.”

The range offered by XMA will continue to expand, with new products and services joining the ‘Recommended by XMA’ range over time, ensuring schools always have access to the best of tech.

Contact our education team to find out more on education@xma.co.uk

On Friday 19th August 2021, Jared Spataro, Corporate Vice President for Microsoft 365, announced an update to their commercial pricing – Please read the announcement here. Jared explains these price increases are due to the innovation Microsoft have delivered into their product suites over the past decade. During this time Microsoft have heavily invested and delivered in three key areas: communications and collaboration, security and compliance, and AI and automation.

Since the launch of M365, Microsoft have includes 24 new apps to the suites such as Microsoft Teams, Power Apps, Power BI, Power Automate, Stream, Planner, Visio, OneDrive, Yammer, and Whiteboard—and have released over 1,400 new features and capabilities.

The price increases will include:

Business Plan
– Microsoft 365 Business Basic (from $5 to $6)
– Microsoft 365 Business Premium (from $20 to $22)

Enterprise Plans
– Office 365 E1 (from $8 to $10)
– Office 365 E3 (from $20 to $23)
– Microsoft 365 E3 (from $32 to $36)
– Office 365 E5 (from $35 to $38)

The pricing is per user per month and the increases will apply globally with local market adjustments for certain regions. These changes will go into effect on 1st March 2022. There are no changes to pricing for education and consumer products at this time

Extending audio conferencing capabilities

One way Microsoft are vindicating the price increase is offering Audio Conferencing (RRP £3.02) with unlimited dial-in capabilities for Microsoft Teams meetings across enterprise, business, frontline, and government suites.

Currently only included with Microsoft 365 E5 and Office 365 E5, Audio Conferencing dial-in has become an important part of the complete Teams experience ensuring users will be able to join their Microsoft Teams meeting from virtually any device regardless of location, or even struggling with a bad internet connection. These features will be effective in March 2022.

Frontline Plans
– Microsoft 365 F3, Microsoft 365 F1 and Office 365 F3

Business Plans
– Microsoft 365 Business Premium, Microsoft 365 Business Standard and Microsoft

365 Business Basic
– Enterprise Plans – Microsoft 365 E3, Office 365 E3, Office 365 E1

Changes to Intune and EM&S E3/E5

The price increase announced on the 19th August 2021 are in addition to the price increase Microsoft announced in February 2021 relating to Intune and EMS E3 & E5 which came into effect this month, August 2021. The increases to Intune and EM&S were again based on Microsoft delivering significant investments in Microsoft Endpoint Manger and Microsoft Enterprise Mobility & Security (EM&S) over the past 18 months.

The new features being rolled out include:
– Microsoft Tunnel VPN (features for Android and iOS devices)
– Enhanced MacOS management capabilities – New endpoint analytics features
– Various enhancements to Microsoft Endpoint Manager

The % increases are outlined below and effect Academic, Corporate and Non-For Profits.

Making the most of digital workspace transformation – Part 1

As working practices and norms continue to change and develop, and the debate about what works best rages on, the ability to adapt your business’ working methods quickly is growing in value. Of course, quick reactions shouldn’t come at the expense of business collaboration, or security. So, how do you clear this delicate obstacle?

The right technology and processes can make an enormous difference. Modern operating systems and software, such as Windows 10, continues to evolve and offer increased levels of flexibility for businesses and private users alike. The rise of the cloud further boosts this, with remote collaboration now near-seamless, as opposed to just a few years ago, when working from home could be challenging. This rate of development is showing no signs of slowing down.

As long-term partners of Microsoft, and experts in the use of technology like Windows 10, Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Azure, we’ve been trusted by many public and private organisations to help prepare them for the challenges presented by changing work habits. We achieve this through a distinct, four-step process we call the digital workspace quadrant.

Getting a sense of what you need to meet your unique needs should always start by taking a closer look at where your business currently stands. What technology do you currently use? How much do you pay for it? Are you using it to its full potential? Programs like Microsoft Teams can offer massive advantages to a business if used properly. We’ll take a close look to see what value can be extracted from existing tools, before looking at new ones.

From here, we’ll start to work with you to define and build your business case for change. To do this effectively, we’ll involve employees from across your business, in order to get a sense of their unique challenges, insights and ideas.

By combining this knowledge gained from your team with comprehensive audits on your technology, infrastructure and existing skillsets, we’ll pick out the ideal technological solutions for your challenges.

From here, our deployment and management expertise comes into play. We’ll make use of deployment tools like Windows Autopilot to ensure any new device delivery goes smoothly, without any setup time necessary.

We’ll also work to make device management significantly simpler. Windows Autopilot enables legacy app containerisation, which allows older Windows apps that are no longer supported to carry on running within the latest version of Windows 10. This means that, if you have an essential piece of bespoke software that’s out of date, you don’t need to immediately replace it, or jeopardise your wider security in the process.

Any technological or cultural change is a big step for a business to take, especially at a time when working culture is evolving so quickly. At XMA, we’ll work with you to make it as simple and painless as possible. From enabling new hybrid opportunities to making the most of existing tech and infrastructure, with our expert support and quality products from major vendors like Microsoft, digital workspace transformation can be that little bit easier.

To learn more about our digital workspace quadrant process, and how we can help you make the most of workplace transformation, keep an eye out for part two of this series, which focuses on keeping security high without restricting access.

Making the most of digital workspace transformation – Part 2

As widespread digital workspace transformation continues to progress, and the working standards of individuals and businesses continues to evolve, keeping pace is increasingly important. If a business is behind the curve, it becomes ever more difficult to attract and retain talent. But with the desire for remote and flexible working being higher than ever, how can you meet this need without jeopardising your business security and continuity?

XMA can help you with this. In a previous blog, we looked at how we can use an effective planning and deployment strategy to help your business embrace new ways of working. In this second blog, we’ll be looking into the ways we can help you keep control of your network, without ever laying your hands on the devices your team uses.

When people work remotely, it’s likely that the range of devices available to them will go up. For example, some people might have a powerful PC at home, while others might prefer to work from a personal tablet or phone occasionally. While this boost to staff convenience is hard to ignore, it does raise several major security concerns. As these devices are outside your management control, they could be an ideal access point for hackers and viruses. As a result, many businesses are choosing to restrict access to managed devices only.

Whether you choose to allow a varied range of devices to use your network, or supply specific machines to each member of your team, we can help. Sophisticated endpoint and access management systems, enabled by Windows 10 technology, allow you to retain control while enabling an enormous level of flexibility for your teams. This will let you simplify automated provisioning, configuration management, and software updates for every single device that uses your network, regardless of operating system.

Device management is just part of the battle. Alongside close and customisable control over access, based on your specific needs and wishes, we’ll also develop a robust and personalised data security and risk management policy. This will consider the sensitivity of your data, how much access is required for each individual, and much more.

Using the latest software and zero-trust techniques from Microsoft, including Windows 10 Authenticator for two-factor authentication, we can start to create an environment that enables digital workspace transformation, without jeopardising security for the sake of access.

Enabling cultural change is naturally important for a business, especially right now, but doing it in a way that’s sensible, safe and suitable for you is incredibly important. It’s not something to be rushed, you need to pick the right path for you. Our team will help you to pick the right path, and use the best technology from Microsoft, along with other major vendor partners, to make it a reality.

We’ll be continuing our blog series on digital transformation in the weeks to come, so keep an eye out for part three. If you’ve not read the first part, or would like a reminder, you can find it here

Brexit Committee News Update – March 2021 Update

Now we are approaching the end of Q1 2021, the reality of the Brexit agreement is emerging with the anticipated delays becoming apparent. As a responsible and proactive partner to our customers and suppliers, we have planned throughout 2020 to address all anticipated outcomes, and we are operating processes that allow trading in the UK and EU to be achieved in the most efficient way within the new regulations.

Despite continued pressure on the international supply chain through Covid restrictions, IT parts constraints, continued exceptional demand and varying interpretation of the new rules across Europe, our experience and preparation has limited these delays for our customers. Rest assured XMA is working with all of our customers to remain at the front of service innovation to remove these delays and will continue our Brexit committee and updates until we recognise that all trading conditions have returned to a consistent and effective

What has changed?

Our customers in England, Wales and Scotland

There will be no change in process from XMA, but we have ensured all of our Suppliers are compliant with all new import requirements to maintain consistency in supply and minimise any unnecessary delays at border points.

Our customers in Northern Ireland

The UK and EU agreed and implemented a solution to minimise disruption regarding cross border
movements. XMA have gained the specific EORI number (XI) to maintain our ability to supply our customers in Northern Ireland and we are also recording the commodity codes and country of origin of products supplied. For all customers in Northern Ireland we will require their EORI number and all deliveries will operate on a Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) basis under Incoterms as this remains a UK to UK relationship. Further information on the specific requirements for trading in Northern Ireland can be found here

Our customers in Europe

XMA have a UK EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) to facilitate the movement of goods into the EEA, which became a requirement in 2021. We also record the Full commodity codes and country of origin for all products supplied and now supply commercial invoices for all shipments. For all orders into Europe we will require our customers to provide their EORI number and all deliveries will operate on a Delivered at Place (DAP) basis under Incoterms.

The future

The biggest concern over Brexit was uncontrolled delays of products arriving into the UK or being delivered to Europe, and it does appear there are initial challenges whilst new processes are fully adopted by all stakeholder groups. Overall, XMA are confident we are providing our customers with correct and effective advice to minimise any delays. We will continue to monitor this situation and where any further risk of delays are identified, work with our customers to mitigate the risk or look at alternative solutions.

If you have any questions about how XMA can support your organisation post Brexit, please contact your Account Manager or direct enquiries to: approvals@xma.co.uk

XMA have been named one of few successful suppliers on the Software Licence Resellers Agreement (SLRA) framework for the provision of software license reseller services to cover Microsoft, Adobe, VMWare and other software and related services. XMA were named as suppliers on the following Lots:

Lot 1 – Microsoft
Lot 3 – VMware
Lot 4 – Other Software
Lot 5 – Services

The initial framework agreement runs for a three year period and is managed by the Southern Universities Purchasing Consortium (SUPC).

Andy Wright, Chief Commerical Officer at XMA had this to say:

“We are delighted to be selected to partner the Southern University Purchasing Consortium for the provision of software licence services. We are dedicated to providing the best value and service to the education sector and we are able to achieve this through agreements such as the SLRA. Education technology has never been more important than it is now and we are committed to enabling better education through the use of technology”

The new agreement went live on the 22nd February 2021.