Technology firm’s cloud computing unit secures multi-year contract to help optimize use of cutting-edge IT technology that will improve the delivery of government-related services to citizens
Jackson, Mississippi (December 19, 2016) – The cloud computing unit for C Spire, a Mississippi-based diversified telecommunications and technology services company, has been selected as a partner to provide a portfolio of data center colocation and accompanying cloud-based information technology (IT) solutions to state and local agencies.
The five-year contract approved by the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services (ITS) gives public entities access to a broad range of services available through C Spire’s newest, purpose-built and Uptime Institute-certified Tier 3 commercial data center. C Spire’s data center is the only one of its class within a 250 radius of its location, meets SOC, HIPAA and PCI requirements and uses premium providers on all critical systems. The 23,800 square foot facility is located on a 6.5 acre site at the Thad Cochran Research, Technology and Economic Development Park in Starkville, Mississippi.
To best serve state agencies and other local government entities, a technical architecture will guide use of the C Spire commercial data center to be optimized in conjunction with the full utilization of the new, state-of-the-art State Data Center operated by ITS. Funded by the Mississippi Legislature and completed in 2011, the State Data Center, a 24 x 365 operation, has over 12,000 square feet of raised floor, environmental controls and robust technology in a hardened, resilient and secure environment.
In addition to state agencies, universities, public schools, libraries and local government (cities and counties) will be able to take advantage of the services available under the C Spire contract, utilizing services with the company’s commercial data center and the State Data Center. By full leveraging the two high-end data center facilities, the state will be able to manage its IT environments in the most flexible, high-performing and cost-effective manner using the latest globally proven technology.
The C Spire contract will enable the simplest and most administratively efficient provisioning and management of IT and can enable a true hybrid cloud across internal and external state environments.
“I’m excited to enter into a strategic partnership with a Mississippi-based technology leader,” said Dr. Craig P. Orgeron, Executive Director of ITS. Orgeron noted that ITS, as directed by the Mississippi Legislature, is committed to ensuring the maximum benefit from IT and to optimize the efficient use of the state’s IT assets. Orgeron said that ITS will work, in conjunction with C Spire, to fully utilize the technology services offered through the company’s commercial data center and the State Data Center.
The contract is designed with volume discounts so that the more agencies purchase needed IT solutions, the greater the savings for all participants, said Kevin Hankins, COO for C Spire. “Our portfolio incorporates best-in-class technical service provided by in-state staff who work personally with customers to manage a secure transition to the cloud," Hankins said.
About C Spire
C Spire, through its business and cloud solutions units, offers businesses a comprehensive suite of enterprise-grade technology solutions for IP voice, dedicated Internet access, wireless 4G LTE and a suite of cloud-based services. The company provides advanced technology business-to-business sales, service, support and account management through dedicated, knowledgeable teams who live and work nearby and who understand the complex needs, markets and challenges facing individual businesses. For more information about C Spire and its business solutions and cloud services products and services, go to www.cspire.com/business or www.cspire.com/cloud.
About ITS
The Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services provides for the effective planning, development and operation of innovative, economical, efficient and effective information technologies for state government agencies and education entities. For more information about ITS, go to www.its.ms.gov.
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