Dominic Dawes is appointed as Head of Communications

After an impressive career spanning journalism, copywriting, editorial roles and owning his own PR agency, congratulations to Dominic Dawes who has been appointed as Head of Communications for Exertis UK.

We caught up with Dom about his career to date, his highlight of 2021 so far and to share an interesting fact about himself…

How long have you been at Exertis?

I started at Exertis in November 2018, so almost three years.

Tell us a bit about your history in communications prior to your time at Exertis.

I was a journalist and copywriter starting in 2000, then I became a senior magazine and website editor. I was the Editor at What Hi-Fi for three years until I left to run my own PR agency in 2012.

Then I ran PR campaigns for a host of big tech and audio brands including Dolby Labs, KEF and Ministry of Sound, before landing the Senior PR Manager role at Exertis in 2018.

How has journalism and communications changed during your time in the industry?

It has transformed completely. Social media, and the whole influencer space, along with seismic changes in ‘traditional’ media, have created a kind of ‘wild west’ media landscape. All the old filters and barriers to entry are gone: if you have an audience, brands will want to connect with them via your content. That makes for a kind of chaos, but also a hugely exciting world of opportunity.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I probably know more about experimental and avant-garde 20th century music than could possibly be considered sane in one individual. Though I’m not sure that qualifies as ‘interesting’…

What has been your highlight of 2021?

With Covid, It’s been a tough year for most of us, I think. Professionally, the way my comms team has developed over the year is hugely gratifying, and a credit to everyone in the team. I’m really proud of where we’re headed together. On a more personal note, getting a Fender Jaguar guitar as a birthday gift from my wife was a definite highlight.

Do you have a hobby?

As you can probably tell, music, music and more music. Also, reading. Then, more music.

What was the first thing you did when lockdown restrictions eased?

I invited some friends round for dinner. Booked tickets for a few upcoming gigs and DJ nights. And breathed a massive sigh of relief.

What does 2022 hold for you?

I’ve got ambitious plans for the comms team, so my main aim is to lead that progress, so that a year from now we’ll look back and hopefully be surprised at how far we’ve travelled. In more concrete terms, that means: more vendor PR clients, bigger media advertising campaigns, become a go-to agency for influencer marketing, grow a seamless narrative approach to Exertis’ internal and external comms, and organically grow the profile of the business, especially around the work we’re doing to drive our people-first agenda, sustainability, diversity & inclusion and more.

So there’s quite a lot to do – I’d better get on!

24th August 2021
Exertis Partners with Basingstoke Town Football Club

Tech firm named as Main Club Sponsor

Basingstoke, 19th August 2021: Exertis, a leading distributor of technology products, has today confirmed its headline sponsorship of Basingstoke Town Community Football Club.

Basingstoke Town Community FC is celebrating its 125th year this year, after becoming a not-for-profit community football club in 2018. The club, run by volunteers, supporters, and members, is made up of a first team, a women’s team and a full-time academy (16-19) who all play at Winklebury Football Complex – as well as a number of junior boys and girls teams, comprising of over 200 players.

As part of the sponsorship, Exertis will have its logo placed proudly on the front of the first team’s home shirts.

Jack Miller, Chairman, Basingstoke Town Community Football Club, says, “We’re so pleased to have Exertis on board as our Main Club sponsors. We’re a community club so partnering with one of the largest technology distributors in the UK is a great opportunity for us.”

Paul Bryan, Managing Director, Exertis UK&I, says, “I am delighted we can support Basingstoke Town FC. This is a great time to partner with the community club as fans are looking to support more locally since the pandemic, and of course to celebrate the club’s return to the town.”

19th August 2021
Exertis Announces Acquisition of Azenn

Leading distributor expands presence in France

Dublin: 29th June 2021: Exertis, a global leader in technology distribution, has announced it has now completed the acquisition of Azenn Holding Développement (‘Azenn’) after receiving regulatory approval earlier this month.

Azenn is a leading distributor of structured cabling solutions and network devices to the French installation market. It also provides logistics, refurbishment and staging services for network devices to some of the largest Telecoms operators in France.

Headquartered in Montauban de Bretagne, Brittany, the business employs approximately 200 people across five locations throughout France, including a large distribution centre in Satolas-et-Bonce, Lyon. Azenn delivered revenues of €60 million in the last financial year.

Azenn is led by Philippe Betherlot, President, who will remain with the business and continue to drive Azenn’s future growth. Philippe Betherlot, says, “This acquisition is a great opportunity for Azenn, our people and our customers. We’re really looking forward to being part of the ever-expanding DCC Technology business.”

The acquisition of Azenn will complement, enhance and extend the service offerings of Exertis Connect, Exertis’ existing commercial business in France. Exertis Connect, led by Eric Bousquet, will facilitate the expansion of Azenn’s cabling and network device offerings to new customers.

This acquisition continues the European expansion of Exertis, following the acquisitions of Amacom, Comm-Tec and Keren in the last two years. Clive Fitzharris, Managing Director, Exertis International, says, “Azenn is a great fit with our existing commercial business in France and will allow us to offer a broader range of network devices and cabling solutions to customers, both inside and outside the building.”

Tim Griffin, Managing Director of DCC Technology says, “As a company that we have admired for a number of years, we are delighted to add Azenn to the Exertis family. I look forward to working with Philippe and the Azenn team to drive further growth in the business and add even more value to our customer and vendor partners.”

1Exertis is the principal trading name of DCC Technology.

1st July 2021
Exertis enhances cybersecurity offering with addition of CyberSmart

Basingstoke, 1st July 2021: Leading technology distributor Exertis has partnered with UK-based cyber security company CyberSmart to offer organisations, no matter their size or expertise, a strong security posture by combatting the threat of cyber-attacks.

CyberSmart’s intuitive platform will support Exertis’ customers by automatically and continuously assessing devices against security and compliance standards, alerting users when these have not been met.

As a result of this partnership, not only will Exertis benefit from a bolstered cybersecurity offering to its customers. In addition, this will enable CyberSmart to reach thousands more companies across the country and be one step closer towards making cybersecurity accessible to all businesses.

“We pride ourselves on making the complex simple and going above and beyond to delight our customers,” says Matthew Swindail, Vendor Development Manager (Security & Cloud) – UK & Europe at Exertis Enterprise. “Our decision to partner with CyberSmart was a no-brainer as they perfectly embody these values.”

“Their platform simplifies cybersecurity by transforming complex regulations into a clear checklist,” Swindail continues. “In a matter of minutes, customers gain full status and visibility of their employees’ corporate and personal devices. We are excited to add CyberSmart to our portfolio and are looking forward to providing these solutions to our channel partners.”

“It is an honour to be working alongside Exertis, a well-respected specialist service provider with tens of thousands of customers. Indeed, to be working with a tier 1 distributor is testament to the fact that there is an ever-growing demand for solutions, such as ours, that champion and empower SMEs to take control of their cybersecurity,” says Tracy Shepherd, Distribution Account Manager at CyberSmart.“We are delighted to see Exertis get involved in this mission.”

This partnership follows a landmark 12 months for CyberSmart, which has seen it secure $10 million in ‘Series A’ funding – achieving a record revenue increase of 300% –  turning CyberSmart into a real homegrown success story for the UK tech industry, despite a hugely challenging year for businesses globally. 

CyberSmart also makes it easy to demonstrate commitment to security through supporting customers in getting certified in Cyber Essentials, the UK government’s cyber security scheme. Cyber Essentials is a crucial benchmark for robust cyber hygiene practices and serves as proof of a company’s digital resilience.

1st July 2021
How big a cyber security threat is IoT?

Have IoT devices changed cyber security? Has IoT created its own set of cyber security threats? Is IoT so important it’s become the top cyber security trend of 2020?

We look at the answers and how IoT businesses are adapting to the latest cyber security threats and consumer concerns. But first, let’s start with the obvious question…

What is IoT?

“The Internet of Things” in a nutshell

The internet has changed society. It’s created new ways to interact, communicate, and developed endless business opportunities. To adapt to this new world, manufacturers have produced remotely controlled devices that send and receive data via the internet.

These devices are referred to as “The Internet of Things”, or “IoT” for short.

IoT devices comprise of everything connected to the internet. They can include doorbells, televisions, security cameras and even robot vacuum cleaners! IoT devices are often designed to make our lives easier with convenience and connectivity in mind.

But with new internet technology comes new cyber security threats…

IoT and cyber security 

Cyber security threats and the dangers of IoT

The advantages of IoT to users and businesses are obvious. But IoT devices are often vulnerable to malicious software and cybercriminals. They can pose a data breach risk, and leave sensitive data exposed. In other words, the dangers of IoT are significant.

Educating consumers on the dangers of someone hacking into their camera and spying on them is important to raise cyber awareness. Someone could so this even when they are not at home and attack and damage sensitive data and record even complex passwords.

Consumers worry over IoT safety

Why IoT manufacturers need to pay attention to cyber security

Consumers are concerned that IoT products are being produced faster than the cyber security needed to keep them safe. In a survey of 15,527 consumers by the National Cyber Security Alliance and ESET, half said that cyber security concerns had put them off purchasing a device. This was a major red flag for IoT manufacturers.

43% of respondents had either not changed their default router passwords or were unsure if they had. Cyber criminals target weak security, highlighting the need for more complex passwords. In recent years, source code was leaked for IoT malware that wound up online for research purposes, which led to more cyber security threats and sophisticated dangers. 

IoT Cyber threats in the home

Home smart tech is becoming a top cyber security trend

Smart devices have now been integrated into many homes, and consumers are concerned about privacy. This is understandable, as the thought of someone spying on you in your lounge, kitchen, and especially your bedroom, is the stuff of nightmares for families.

It is estimated that 80% of IoT devices are vulnerable to a range of cyber security attacks. In a paper entitled ‘IoT Goes Nuclear’ researchers demonstrated how a fault in the design of a smart light bulb could be used for a ‘bricking attack,’ which cuts all the traffic lights in a city!

The expert view on IoT cyber security

Approaching a crossroads in consumer behaviour

Security experts predict that the rapid rise in connectivity could ironically be its demise. More people may choose to mitigate risks by going offline, if cyber security safety is not being put in place quick enough. People can see that cyber security threats no longer just affect IoT in business but has crossed over into their own personal lives and homes.

There is light at the end of the tunnel, however. Educating consumers on cyber security and cyber hygiene is fast becoming the top priority for IoT manufacturers. Governments are supporting them with more effective regulation of IoT devices, and technologies that prevent security breaches are being researched more and more every day.

We’re covering the latest cyber security trends and everything you need to know about cyber security. Have a look at our other articles for more on cyber hygiene and cyber security threats: https://www.exertis.co.uk/plugin/news-in-brief/are-emerging-technologies-changing-cybersecurity/

11th October 2020
Are emerging technologies changing cyber security?

How exactly does new and emerging technology help with cyber security and raising cyber security awareness? Does it prevent sensitive data getting into the wrong hands and protect against other cyber threats?

We look at how emerging technologies and ideas are helping to not just develop cyber security programmes and advance cyber security campaigns but safeguard the future of business.

When did technology start?

The “missing link” between technology and security

Let’s take it back to the beginning. 3.3 million years ago when early hominids carved flaked stone into knives in Lake Turkana, Kenya, they were making the first form of technology. It’s no coincidence that it formed the first part of security as well.

We weren’t quite in the realms of modern cyber security yet, but the instinctive need for security is as essential a human need as that for food or water. We simply cannot survive without protecting against threats, whether we are protecting ourselves from animals, or a modern computer virus.

Technology: what is it good for?

Catching up with the need for cyber security

The word technology comes from the Greek word ‘techne’ meaning arts. And the ancient poets’ Homer and Hesiod defined technology as the spoken word of manual craft or cunning. Since then, our cunning and ingenuity has developed remarkable technology to the point where it is not a question of if, but when intelligent machines will eclipse human intelligence.  

It’s now painfully clear that emerging technology is advancing faster than the people trying to use it. And with so much sensitive data now stored on software, hardware, and the Cloud, it’s a threat landscape that demands technology meets the need for cyber security. No business can afford a data breach and we are all looking to emerging technology for answers.

The internet and cyber security

Why the internet has created a new threat landscape

The Internet of Things (IoT), which connects and integrates devices and appliances through the internet, is just one of many emerging technologies that once successfully integrated into our lives, has rendered the world unrecognisable almost overnight.

But with rapid growth comes vulnerability. As hackers learn to exploit the loopholes in emerging technology, the consequences can be devastating for businesses and individuals. Unlike a typical cyber hack, an IoT hack could put your life at risk and result in physical damage as well as the loss of sensitive personal data. IoT devices can be used to spy on you, steal from you and even taunt you!

Emerging technology begins to offer answers

How cyber security advances along with technology

Fortunately, as technology advances, cyber security retains pace. Governments and corporations are keeping abreast with technology and inventing new ways to train employees in the latest threats to data storage and cyber security.

One programme addressing the need for cyber security awareness in organisations is Kaspersky’s Lab security Awareness. The enterprise has launched a family of computer-based training products that utilise the latest learning techniques to highlight the relevance of cyber security to individuals.

Lab security Awareness uses automated learning management, live tracking of data, trends, forecasts and on-the-fly analysis of the potential for improvement where needed, to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of threats.

Cyber security in a remote-working world

How working from home is changing cyber security practices

In a global survey conducted by Gartner of 317 CFOs and business finance leaders, it found that 74% plan to move their previously on-site workforce to permanently remote positions post COVID-19. Many businesses now use Cloud storage technology to communicate and collaborate with employees, but remote networks also pose a new threat landscape with its own data breach risks.

SonicWall is a pioneering technology that addresses the changing security needs of increasingly remote-working businesses. They offer Cloud Application Security, Signatureless End Point Protection, which provides email security and data protection, and a SD-WAN that connects remote networks from anywhere in the world to a central location.

SonicWall’s Capture real-time deep memory inspection (RTDMI) is unique and provides threat detection, intelligence and remediation of malware that attempts to hide on the server/processor memory.

Cyber security in the Cloud

More reliance on Cloud computing and Cloud Storage

Kasperky’s security for Office 365 is ideal for protecting Cloud-based businesses as it stops the spread of malicious software, phishing, ransomware, spam and business email compromise. 

To secure remote devices, StoreCraft’s Cloud Backup is ideal for protecting critical data, whether it’s located remotely or in the Cloud. It protects, encrypts and makes data available through an intuitive web-based interface. Users can quickly recover a file, folder or account data in its original format. 

The future of cyber security

Cyber security programmes of tomorrow

IoT devices and emerging technologies are progressively integrating into our lives. This means cyber security is a necessity, much like primitive weapons were necessary to early hominids. Of course, technology’s modern-day reincarnations would be unimaginable to our ancestors.

But civilisations progress by reusing the ideas and innovations of their predecessors. And cyber security still serves the same intent as its early incarnations: to safeguard our most fundamental rights and needs against the threat landscape of the day.

We’re covering all you need to know about cyber security! Check out our other articles to learn more about cyber hygiene and how to improve your cyber security programmes and campaigns.

4th October 2020
Smart tech helps tackle isolation and loneliness

Loneliness is a defining characteristic of the twenty-first century and one of the most significant public health issues facing society today. And it’s not just the elderly living in care homes who complain of being lonely. A whole range of individuals across broadly differing demographics experience it.

Three in five 18 to 34-year olds in the UK are lonely and so too are nearly half of all 10 to 15-year olds. The number of over-50s experiencing loneliness is set to reach two million by 2025/6 and there are 1.2 million chronically lonely people in the UK[i].

In recent times, problems of loneliness and isolation have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The health implications of loneliness are profound and can result in early death. It rivals obesity as a killer, and some argue it kills more people than cancer or heart disease.  

The question is, why are we all so lonely? 

A lonely problem

The reasons for loneliness in our society are complicated and far-reaching. We are more fragmented and reliant on automation than previous generations. The decline of our heavy industries is partly responsible in that many communities centred around the mines and docks were lost. We now favour flexible employment and gig work, meaning we relocate more and are increasingly isolated from friends and family. The cost of housing also means that many young people must rent for prolonged periods making it harder to put down roots and be part of a community. 

But could technology be the key to easing the problem?

Smart tech to check isolation

This is a question tech companies like Alcove, which specialises in assisted living, are trying to answer. 

The enterprise is repurposing smart technology, such as motion sensors and wearables, to meet the needs of the elderly. It has even adjusted Amazon’s Alexa with a pre-configured emergency function so that when users give a ‘help’ command, the device sends a message to their carer or family members. And It is using technology to prevent events from occurring rather than just responding. One of the products Alcove has created is a system designed to prevent wandering, which is a frequent problem for those who suffer from memory loss. The technology places sensors at the front door and hallway and creates an alert if the door is opened and the resident leaves the house. 

Then there’s Zanithon, another smart home technology company trying to combat isolation by creating fall-detection software using motion sensors to monitor an elderly users’ movements and vital signs to assess whether they need medical attention. Zanithon’s chief executive, Phil Regenie, believes this technology will eventually be able to predict when an older person is in danger of falling and hopefully prevent it from happening in the first place.

Smart ways to alleviate exclusion

Researchers are also developing AI companions to alleviate loneliness.  Japanese industrial automation pioneer AIST have developed PARO, a therapeutic robotic seal that provides companionship for the isolated and elderly. The seal has five sensors that react to light, temperature, posture and sound. It is often used for patients who have dementia. And researchers have found evidence that suggests PARO reduces stress and anxiety as well as improves patients’ moods by encouraging social interaction. However, it might be many decades before we can recreate the world of Spike Jonze’s film ‘Her’ where Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) falls in love with an artificially intelligent virtual assistant Samantha (Scarlett Johansson).

When designed with good intentions, smart home technology has the power to revolutionise the care of the elderly and transform lives by increasing independence and self-care. Although it’s no substitute for real human contact, when used in combination with social interaction, smart tech can mitigate much of the widespread loneliness many face today. And for those that have problems with mobility, this technology can make life a lot easier. In the future, it’s clear that smart home technology, which aids social inclusion, independence, and mobility will play a crucial role in helping aging populations and those suffering from isolation.

[i] https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/the-facts-on-loneliness/#:~:text=Loneliness%20and%20older%20people&text=Over%20half%20(51%25)%20of,Review%3A%20Loneliness%20in%20Later%20Life.

24th September 2020
It’s office-ial, the optimal office is SMART.

The ancient Chinese art of feng shui is founded on the principle that unseen forces drive the world. We must allow these forces to flow freely to create balance. Feng shui uses the arrangement of space to achieve harmony with one’s environment and create a sense of wellbeing.

So, what can this ancient Chinese art teach us about optimising space?

Although feng shui is often relegated to realms of pseudoscience, there is mounting evidence to suggest that our environment directly impacts our productivity and wellbeing. Alongside this, employee expectations are changing and millennials –who make up 43.3% of the global labour force[i] – put more emphasis on wellbeing and engagement than previous generations. Consequently, businesses are looking to keep pace with digital culture and smart technology (and even feng shui: see here) to optimise their office space. 

The shui to an optimised office

Incorporating smart technology into the office can help business owners increase productivity, profits and engagement. The technology can be used to monitor systems, reduce waste and boost efficiency. Smart tech can optimise an office’s environment by learning when it is occupied and how to make employees more productive. 

With remote working on the rise, online real-time collaboration is necessary for many businesses. And the Internet of Things (devices that can send and receive data via their connection to the internet) is paving the way with portable, fixed and wearable devices that interact through a cloud-based network. Smart tech such as AV screens operated from a smartphone and sensors that can identify how many employees are in the office at any given time are just some of the technologies being used in smart offices. 

Just an IoTa of smart thinking

The cost of running a commercial premise is often high. However, smart technology delivers an elegant solution by enabling users to increase energy efficiency. IoT Start-up 75F uses sensors to examine airflow and automates cooling and heating systems. Chief operation officer of 75F, Bob French, says that businesses can cut energy costs by 70% by using a 75F system. Considering that 72% of office workers say that a sustainable environment is important to them, it’s time to invest (and save!). [ii]

You can regulate an office environment with smart thermostats (commercial and industrial). Smart thermostats can decrease heating and cooling when employees are out of the office and optimise it when they’re at their desks. Cost-efficient and environmental? Smart Check. 

The 2017 Memoori report entitled ‘The Future Workplace: Smart Office Design in the IoT Era’ surveyed five hundred office users in North America on the level of technology in their working environment and how they felt it impacted their ability to be productive. 

When surveyed on types of office lighting, there was an evident pattern that emerged. Only 9.7% of respondents in offices with fluorescent strip lighting said it increased their concentration, compared to 40.2% working in ‘abundant natural light’. Fluorescent strip lighting was also the only lighting type with a greater percentage of participants feeling it impeded their productivity. [iii] Lighting has a significant impact on the circadian system, employee wellbeing and productivity. Investing in smart lighting for your office can pay dividends in the long-term. 

It’s the smart ying to do

Certainly, the ancient Chinese were onto something… But it’s not just feng shui: smart technology can enhance productivity and wellbeing while optimising space, too.

Using smart technology to make the lives of employees easier, safer and more efficient can help businesses drive growth in the workspace. Whether we like it or not, IoT is here to stay. Ignore it and you risk losing out as competitors integrate systems to gain a competitive edge. Of course, you must assess what smart home technology will benefit your business to get the best value out of your tech.

But if you want to accelerate your growth, it’s time to prosper with IoT. 

CTA: Partner with Exertis to bring your enterprise into the digital age. We can help your business transition into the future with our smart home technology partnerships. We distribute the latest in smart home technology from brands such as TCP Smart, Swan, Kami…

[i] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/millennials-75-workforce-2025-ever-anita-lettink

[ii] https://pssmagazine.co.uk/over-70-of-workers-value-a-sustainable-office-environment/

[iii] https://www.memoori.com/portfolio/the-future-workplace/

23rd September 2020
The future of smart home technology

Housing has undoubtedly come a long way from the painted caves of 25000 B.C. to the smart homes of today. Already, we can automate our lighting, heating, cooling and gadgets to optimise energy efficiency, reduce costs and enhance productivity. We have greater security and we can even remotely spy on our cat to make sure she’s not climbing on the kitchen counter in search of treats again. 

But what comes next? 

Imagine coming home after a long day of toiling at your desk, and it’s painless. Your A.I. assistant, who has already organised your entire evening, greets you with warmth. In the kitchen, your children are happily eating dinner while watching a movie on a V.R. headset. And you didn’t have to pay for childcare because your A.I. assistant looked after the kids. When you enter the bathroom, the sensors in your mirror detect a minor infection and order a prescription that’s delivered to your door by an Amazon drone the next day. You don’t get sick. The house is immaculate thanks to your trusty team of robots who clean up after everyone, so you don’t have to. When you go into the bedroom, your wardrobe suggests an outfit change, based on your preferences that it’s learned over time. 

This may seem like a sci-fi fantasy, but billions of dollars are currently being poured in developing the seamless smart home of the future.

Here are just some of the things we can expect in the future as smart home technology becomes increasingly sophisticated… 

The integral nature of integration

Presently, one of the most significant challenges facing smart home technology is integration. Having to use multiple key commands or different apps to access different devices is time-consuming and complicated. Consumers are demanding a seamless experience with one interface to ensure convenience. Many businesses are addressing integration with professional home automation. Enterprises such as Control 4 and Josh.ai are proving the technology’s potential. Developing smart home technology that successfully integrates into households will be the primary driver in overcoming consumer scepticism. 

Ensure it, secure – ity

It’s estimated that by 2022, 63 million American homes will qualify as smart, and as we rely more on smart home tech we can expect some smart hacking too. Once hackers can exploit the enormous security vulnerabilities in so many of these devices, they’ll use them as a way to access highly sensitive data and crash servers. As attacks become more commonplace, the necessity for smart home security tech will rise. We can expect to receive real-time alerts when suspicious activity is observed, and devices will be regulated by governments who’ll require security measures such as multi-factor authentication. As security breaches could seriously damage consumer confidence in smart home technology, companies will ensure they do everything in their power to safeguard the industry. 

Your wealth lies in your health

Users will live healthier, prolonged lives thanks to cleaner air and water, alongside proactive analysis of waste through garbage, toilets and sewers. We’ll have smart bathrooms that release relaxing brainwaves and aromatherapy, as well as mirrors that can assess the state of your health and notify you of underlying health conditions. We’ll be able to monitor our sleep patterns and use alarm clocks that sense when we’re in a light REM sleep cycle and wake us accordingly.

Smart home technology has transformed our lives and how we enjoy our homes. Innovation has ensured greater convenience, security, efficiency and reduced costs. The potential offered by deeper integration, health innovations and other new tech appears endless. Valuing our homes as the one place where we can completely control our environment, the world of smart tech looks set to enhance and enliven our experience in the home long into the future.

22nd September 2020
Digital zen – smart homes for wellness

Modern life is fast-paced and complex, leaving many with little or no time to look after their wellbeing. It’s no surprise that anxiety and stress are on the rise, with 79% of British adults suffering from work-related stress.

We all know that stress is bad for us: the effects of long-term stress can disturb the immune, digestive, cardiovascular, sleep and reproductive systems. Continued long-term stress can result in serious health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and other illnesses. But the good news is, most of the causes of stress can be mitigated, providing we’re otherwise in good health. 

Home is where the smart is

Smart home technology is disrupting the health and wellness industry by providing health solutions in the comfort of one’s home. Increasingly, both consumers and doctors are turning to smart home technology to manage a range of health issues, from chronic conditions to care of the elderly.

Smart technology can be used to improve our health and wellbeing, firstly by measuring key indicators, and secondly, by reducing our stress. AI and technology are providing everything from remote patient monitoring to videoconferencing doctors. 

Anti-viral air filtration

As smart home technology helps reduce the need for physical contact with surfaces and thus decreases the risk of infection, it’s becoming highly desirable for many in the age of COVID-19. David Shrier, a lecturer in technology and innovation at MIT’s Media Lab, predicts that future smart home technology will include UV disinfection lights that sanitise surfaces and sensors that recognise when an occupant is running a high temperature. He also believes there will be an array of tech that can diagnose conditions that previously involved a trip to the hospital.  

At present, smart home air filtration systems are hugely popular as they reduce dust, mould, bacteria and other allergens that may decrease the air quality at home. Consider investing in one for some breathing space. 

Stop feeling SAD with smart lights

Smart homes are also being used to treat conditions like SAD (Seasonable Affective Disorder) and depression. Automation allows lighting systems to dim and brighten with the natural rhythms of the sun. For SAD, therapists and physicians may prescribe light therapy which involves greater exposure to light and this treatment helps reduce symptoms of depression due to lack of sunlight. There are several products on the market claiming to do just that, such as John Goscha’s Brilli lightbulbs, which are designed to improve health and wellness by simulating the effects of sunrise and sunset. The product claims to keep circadian rhythms in balance, improve mood, reduce stress, increase focus, boost energy, minimise eye strain and increase alertness.

Smart homes have the power to transform our health, meaning we perform better in our daily lives. The technology can also help health services become more efficient and free up hospital beds. Although there are many sceptics, smart home technology has the power to save lives and money, enhance productivity and strengthen our healthcare system. Perhaps, as importantly, it allows us a degree of control over our own health and wellbeing, rather than simply being a passive player in a healthcare system that’s struggling to cope with burgeoning demand. 

21st September 2020
Five ways smart home technology can improve your life

Smart home technology is no longer reserved for the wealthy. Consumer interest in internet-connected devices of all kinds has brought a vast number of affordable products to this increasingly dynamic market. Smart home tech might originally have appeared gimmicky to all but early adopters, but now the technology is quietly revolutionising consumers’ homes. Smart tech provides levels of convenience, safety, cost-efficiency and sustainability that weren’t previously possible.

Reduce energy use

As fuel sources diminish and energy costs rise, energy conservation is a concern for many consumers. It’s easy to forget to turn lights and appliances off, which can result in huge amounts of energy and money wasted. Smart technology enables us to regulate light usage, heating and air conditioning, switching off appliances when not in use. The technology also provides homeowners with the ability to switch appliances on or off remotely when they’re away from home, which is good for the environment.

Surveillance

Smart security tech can alert users to emergencies. Remote surveillance of property is important for people whose residencies may remain unoccupied during the day as this is when thieves target properties. Being able to monitor your house while you’re away can provide you with peace of mind, and the latest generation of smart security cameras offer high-resolution images, fantastically simple set-up and high-quality apps through which to interact with the camera at any time you choose.

Home assistant

Smart tech also allows users to control devices with their voice. Voice assistants can help you perform house chores, read emails, order pizza or even preheat the oven – the list goes on and on. You can also talk to your pet via the home assistant.

Save on costs

Smart home technology really can provide a financial benefit. A number of energy providers and insurers are incentivising consumers to invest in the technology by encouraging consumers to install certain power-saving technologies and smart sensors.

Assisted living

Smart tech is helping elderly pensioners live independently for longer. The technology is also helping reduce the cost of care and prevent injury and illness. As populations across Europe, North America and Japan continue to age, smart technology has the power to be revolutionary.

13th September 2020
CRN Women In Channel Awards – our nominees!

Congratulations to our colleagues who have been shortlisted in the CRN Women in Channel Awards! We caught up with a few of our nominated women to see what the nomination meant to them.

Jamie Brothwell​​​​​​​

​​​​​​​Shortlisted for: Role Model of the Year

Why were you nominated?
I was nominated by the Exertis UK board.

What does being shortlisted mean to you?
I am hugely honoured to be shortlisted, diversity and inclusion is a huge focus within both our business and the industry today. I hope my journey can help pave the way for others to be their authentic self and to demonstrate that no matter who you are it’s what you do that defines you.

Do you have any advice for women at Exertis?
​​​​​​​My motivation is and always has been to make a difference, to educate and to be the best version of myself. I am a strong believer that you must do your apprenticeship, be patient and keep learning. As my former MD used to say, the more you learn, the more you earn.

Lucy Hood

Shortlisted for: Marketing Person of the Year

Why were you nominated?
I was nominated by Exertis, mainly for the work I have delivered in internal communications over the past 18 months but also for always going above and beyond, my dedication and commitment, as well as how I have built my career with Exertis over the past 5 years.

What does being shortlisted mean to you?
Just being nominated has made me really proud, let alone making the shortlist. Since taking on internal communications it’s been quite a whirlwind and being nominated by my colleagues around the business has really made me take a step back and think, wow what I am doing is being recognised and I’m making an impact. Although there are more women in senior roles than when I started working in the technology industry, there still isn’t enough and it can be quite intimidating. I hope these awards can shine the light on some of the amazing females in our industry and also show other women that they’re not limited to what they can achieve.

Do you have any advice for women at Exertis?
​​​​​​​Be authentic and true to yourself. Build good relationships internally and externally, everyone has different skills and you can learn a lot from the networks you build. And finally, have confidence in yourself and what you can achieve, it might not be easy but it will be worth it.

Yoanna Lazarova

Shortlisted for: Unsung Hero (Vendor/Distributor)

Why were you nominated?
Because my colleagues value my efforts and feel that the work I do might be sometimes unseen but benefits the success of the EE account.

What does being shortlisted mean to you?
It fills me with pride and joy that my work is appreciated and recognised and also that I would have the opportunity to speak up about gender equality and how it benefits the return on equity of every company.

Do you have any advice for women at Exertis?
​​​​​​​I would like to thank them for their hard work which is definitely noticed and appreciated . Even in a male dominated industry, at Exertis we are all lucky to work for a diverse employer where everyone has an equal opportunity of further development.

3rd September 2020
Education boost?

Is education technology about to get a boost from COVID-19?

There is much discussion amongst the education community and the students as to whether the current pandemic will fundamentally and permanently change the delivery of learning in the future. For some, the move to online learning has been a necessity rather than a choice but it seems likely that online education will become an integral component even when some normality is restored. Many online learning platforms have offered free access to their services. Microsoft announced that all schools in the UK could sign up for Office 365 Education for free including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and significantly for Microsoft Teams. The UK has around 27,000 schools educating around 10 million pupils so the offer is clearly significant.

Of course, the shift to a “work and learn from home” scenario has exponentially increased the demand for SaaS solutions that support collaboration and remote workflows. Consequently, video conferencing platforms that enable faceto-face contact have become household names with Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Google Meet rising in popularity. Zoom has been reported as growing from 10 million users in December 2019 to 200 million users in March 2020, no doubt helped by their 40-minute free time limit restriction being lifted. Over the same period, Microsoft more than doubled their Team daily users from 20 million to 44 million and Google was said to be adding 2 million users per day.

Naturally, on-line learning requires a reliable internet connection and a laptop or tablet in order for the student to participate and, so rightly, there is a demand to ensure a level playing field can be achieved. The UK government is committed to making laptops available to disadvantaged students. For those that do have access to the right technology, there is evidence that online learning can be even more effective than a traditional classroom environment, increasing retention rates by between 25 and 60 per cent₁. Some students clearly benefit from learning at their own pace and going back over something they might not have grasped first time around. Technology had revolutionised teaching and learning prior to COVID-19 in many instances. Indeed, the global edtech investments to learning technology companies reached almost $19 billion globally in 2019 – the highest in the history of the learning technology industry by an extraordinary margin according to Metaari with Research and Markets estimating the market expected to reach $350 billion by 2025 due to the introduction of flexible learning technologies in the corporate and education sectors.

Technology provides personalised learning, empowering students to take ownership of how they learn with a combination of in-class and on-line education. Today, lectures and seminars no longer have to be confined to the classroom and experts can be brought in remotely to teach subjects where that expertise may not be available at a local level. Virtual Reality and gamification are providing new tools to add to that learning experience.

However, for some educational establishments the sudden move to on-line learning brought about by the pandemic only highlights the importance of having proper security in place. Even prior to lockdown, a Netwrix survey entitled 2020 Data Risk and Security report₄ revealed that educational establishments had weak security controls in place for protecting sensitive data and the move to distance learning will only exacerbate the problem as they become potentially more vulnerable to cyberattacks. In the report, one quarter (24 per cent) of them admit granting access rights based solely on user requests, and another 22 per cent said they don’t know how exactly access rights are granted in their organisations — the highest percentage among all industries. To make matters worse, 63 per cent of educational organisations don’t review permissions regularly. Furthermore 52 per cent of IT professionals in the education sector admit that employees put sensitive data at risk by sharing it via cloud apps. The Cyber Security Schools Audit 2019 report from the London Grid for Learning₅ maintained that four in five (83 per cent) of schools have reportedly experienced at least one cybersecurity incident and emphasised the need for cybersecurity training.

Clearly the shift to remote learning opens the door to further attacks with IT departments having less control and some schools lack the resources to build strong cybersecurity protection. Social engineering remains one of the most common forms of attack with phishing and ransomware common methods. Strong passwords, anti-malware software, patching, VPNs and two factor authentication can help to deter cyberattacks but basic cyber security training also needs to be in place. See our article on security for homeworkers on page 12 in this issue.

The channel has a key part to play in helping educational establishments to know what technology is available to help them stay ahead and adapt to the changes that may well become the long term norm. Providing, deploying and monitoring the right solutions is how resellers can support their educational customers along with ensuring training is provided to optimise the use of the equipment. In turn, resellers need a one stop shop for the products and solutions and the opportunity to take advantage of additional technical support and services that can help them win and retain a customer. Exertis is your ideal partner to do just that. We work with key vendors such as Intel, Fujitsu, Acer, Dynabook, Dell, Lenovo and Cherry that have specific programmes aimed at this market. In addition, our Interactive and Collaboration Solutions team are certified Microsoft Teams Room technical trainers and the vendor’s UK distributor of choice for MTR. In addition, our security team can also help to provide better protection for educational establishments.

The educational learning experience has been changing but COVID-19 may well make that happen quicker and deeper. That, in turn, presents opportunities for our resellers.

13th July 2020
More clouds bring brighter outlook

There are clearly advantages and disadvantages of cloud storage.

One thing large market research companies agree on is that the market is forecast to continue to see strong growth as cloud adoption increases and more companies of all sizes embrace the technology. Mordor Intelligence estimate the global cloud storage market to reach $170.02 billion by 2025 growing at a CAGR of 25.74 per cent during the forecast period 2020 to 2025. Allied Market Research valued the market at $46.12 billion in 2019 with a projection that it would be worth a huge $222.25 billion by 2027 growing at a CAGR of 21.9 per cent from 2020 to 2027. Either projection presents a significant opportunity and that can only be good news for resellers.

The growing demand for low cost data storage, backup and data protection has increased the growth of the market across small, medium and large enterprises across a host of vertical markets such as  banking, retail, and the public sector where increased collection of data needs to be securely stored. With many organisations embarking on a digital transformation journey, data is continuing to increase exponentially with more mobile technologies, IoT, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data and Machine Learning all contributing to amassing large amounts of data.

Many organisations have adopted a multicloud, hybrid strategy – the later becoming increasingly popular with more sensitive data or mission critical tasks being kept inhouse. Choosing what’s best for companies may depend on the IT resources available. Certainly, Cloud computing providers like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Rackspace and Google Cloud have the resources and finances to continue to deliver more robust features, services and security than most organisations, although even these companies are not immune from cyber attacks.

Cost is often one of the most important factors. Power costs can be reduced and cloud service providers can manage upgrades and troubleshoot any issues which for a small business can be very compelling. Unlike a traditional hard drive where information is stored in a physical unit in one place, data is saved on a server belonging to or managed by a cloud vendor either on a private or public cloud. For some companies, a hybrid approach, using a private cloud offering can be the most suitable solution.

Furthermore, accessibility to data can easily be accessed by users with the right credentials, therefore making the solution particularly attractive for remote workers who can access data anytime and anywhere, providing there is an internet connection.

Finally, disaster recovery is another area where cloud storage has significant advantages by providing flexible backup options which can ensure business continuity. Therefore, in the event of a problem, companies have the quick option of accessing and retrieving any lost data. This can help to minimise data losses in disaster situations. However, the cost of back-up and disaster recovery is increasing, simply because of the amount of data that is now kept. Organisations need to prioritise the information essential to run a business smoothly and at the lowest, possible cost. Artificial Intelligence for data management is an innovative new solution

Exertis Enterprise partners with key vendors that leverage cloud infrastructure, reduce overheads, and operating costs, provide stringent data protection whilst avoiding vendor lock in and enabling complete management of un-structured data using the latest autonomous intelligence.

Our Exertis Enterprise team has storage specialists ready to advise you on the best options to enhance your choice of cloud storage solution.

SOME KEY EXAMPLES: Datacore are market leaders in the field of Artificial Intelligence for data management. V-filo provides businesses with autonomous data management where all the important information is stored safely and protected at all times. Datacore has been chosen as a data management tool in the world’s largest enterprises across multiple industries for more than 25 years.

OS Nexus is a unified storage platform that is agnostic to hardware. Using QuantaStore’s grid architecture allows the removal of storage islands and the implementation of next generation hybrid/ private cloud environments. IBM has been using OS Nexus QuantaStor as it’s dedicated SDS platform in the IBM cloud since 2011 with hundreds of deployments across its 23 datacentre’s worldwide.

A10 Networks’ advanced load balancers with central management and analytics, provide a unified solution that allows organisations to manage and deliver secure, elastic, cloud-native applications and services centrally across both public and the entire private cloud infrastructure. Businesses benefit from greater visibility and insights per application and better security.

VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud. It provides enterprise customers with a transformative wide area network experience, including exceptional application performance over any transport, drastically simplified network management, and streamlined access to Cloud services and platforms.

When you couple the Exertis Enterprise all encompassing Server, Storage, Networking, Software, Security and infrastructure portfolio, which is truly made up of some of the world’s leading technology vendors such as Dell, Intel, AMD, Supermicro, Seagate, WD, Huawei, Fujitsu, VMware, Microsoft, Nivida & APC to name a few, and pair it with the experience and expertise around not only the products/ solutions mentioned but also the CSP/DC market in general, Exertis can truly add value to our partners, whatever the choice or challenge may be.

For advice on how to take advantage of cloud storage opportunities or AI management of data, talk to one of our enterprise specialists.

8th July 2020
Better news for PC market but Windows 7 still an issue

Following years of quarterly declines, a mixed 2018 with negative, flat and positive quarters, 2019 was a better year for the global PC market with the last three quarters showing a positive trend. Gartner and IDC put the overall growth between 0.6 and 2.7 per cent over the previous year. IDC reported that worldwide PC shipments grew 2.7% from 259.6 million to 266.7 million in 2019 whilst Gartner estimated that worldwide PC shipments had grown 0.6% from 259.8 million to 261.2 million in 2019. For the full year, Lenovo extended its lead over other manufacturers. End of life support for Windows 7 has helped to refresh the market but there are still plenty of computers out there still to make the move. Indeed, Windows 7 popularity can be seen in the fact that it took Windows 10 nearly four years to pass it in market share. There are conflicting estimates as to the numbers of PCs still running Windows 7: according to Netmarketshare a massive 26 per cent, Computer World estimates it to be over 29 per cent or 446 million and ZDnet puts it at around 200 million. Irrespective of which number is the most accurate, there are still hundreds of millions of unsupported PCs which present a massive

15th May 2020
CDO Appointment

The transformation of our business continues with the key appointment of our first Chief Digital Officer enabling us to take advantage of the potential of digital and e-commerce channels that can enable us to handle low value transactional work whilst focusing on high value advisory solutions. Welcome to Vishal Chhatralia, who has joined Exertis from Electrocomponents (known as RS Components) where he was instrumental in successfully leading their digital transformation strategy across the globe, resulting in £1bn being traded online p.a. Vish will report to Tim Griffin, our Exertis Group MD and also dotted line to Paul Bryan, MD for Exertis UK&I. He will be responsible for devising and implementing our digital strategy focussing on customer experience, marketing, digital services and operational efficiencies to drive frictionless trade and expansion of digital technologies across our organisation.

15th May 2020
UK IT Appointment

Liz Greenwood has joined Exertis as UK IT director, reporting to Richard Hinds, Exertis UK&I, chief operating officer. She will have responsibility to continue to drive the overall service and performance improvements associated with the UK IT function. In addition, she will play a lead role in defining the company’s future SAP roadmap and critically how the solution is used to deliver value across all areas of the business.

Liz joins from Royal Mail Group, having spent almost eight years with the company most recently as business IT director for Parcelforce Worldwide. Prior to that, she worked at Fujitsu Services for seven years in a variety of senior IT and business roles and at Siemens for five years.

15th May 2020
More protection for the Internet of Things

The UK government has announced plans to strengthen the rules around smart devices to protect users from cyber hacks. Research shows that, by 2025, there will be as many as 75 billion internet-connected devices in homes around the world. As the ‘Internet of Things’ becomes more ingrained in the UK home, security is in the forefront of many consumer’s minds, and the introduction of security standards is certain to reassure many.

Under these new rules, created in conjunction with the National Cyber Security Centre and set out by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, all smart devices sold will adhere to the following four guidelines: use unique passwords, non-resettable to a universal factory setting; manufacturers will provide a public point of contact for reporting a vulnerability; manufacturers must state the minimum length of time between security updates.

Speaking on the matter, Digital Minister Matt Warman said, “With pro-innovation regulation that breeds confidence in modern technology, the UK will be the safest place to be online”.

21st April 2020
Exertis rakes in awards at the PCR Awards 2020

Exertis has triumphed at the 2020 PCR Awards, winning three leading distribution gongs.

Operated by tech channel magazine PCR, the awards celebrate distributors, vendors and retailers operating in the UK’s PC and Technology industry. Recognised in both the Distribution and Channel Services categories, these nominations show Exertis’ achievement across a broad spectrum of distribution and marketing services.

At the glitzy London ceremony on the 4th March, Exertis cleaned up in the Distribution category, winning a total of three awards; Hardware Distributor, Consumer Electronics Distributor and the highly coveted Distributor of the Year (£151m plus takeover).

21st April 2020
Xbox ‘Project Scarlett’ gets an identity

Codenamed ‘Project Scarlett’, the eagerly awaited next-generation console from Microsoft has been confirmed as the Xbox Series X.

Along with the announcement, we also got the first glimpse of the new console. A break from the slim, rectangular, look that gamers have come to expect from Xbox consoles, the Series X is an upright tower – though it can support either vertical or horizontal orientation. This new style reflects the processing power and efficiency inside. According to Phil Spencer, Head of Xbox, it is “bold and unique, much like our fans around the world and the team of collaborators and innovators who built it.”

In conjunction with this momentous announcement at the Game Awards 2019, Xbox announced a second Series X title, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II. Designed to truly reflect the power of the console, this will sit alongside the already-announced first party title Halo Infinite, as well as the entire Xbox catalogue, thanks to backwards compatibility. Xbox says Series X is just one of an upcoming console family simply called ‘Xbox’.

21st April 2020
Exertis signs headphone brand Nura

Nura, creator of the Nuraphone and the upcoming Nuraloop, has joined the Exertis Premium Audio catalogue of big-name headphone brands including Bowers & Wilkins and AKG. Nura’s innovative technology offers a unique and immersive listening experience, unlike any other. In just 60 seconds, this patented technology allows the headphones to learn and adapt to the wearer’s unique hearing profile, creating the perfect sound – that’s music to anyone’s ears.

Wearers of Nura’s innovative headphones can tune in and out of ambient sound – deciding between next-gen noise cancellation or the ‘social mode’, letting in surrounding noise. Nura offers an immersive experience – whether the user puts themselves in the virtual front row or right at the back of the room.

21st April 2020