Leeds businessman brings IT factor to Ripon
A former Leeds-based computer systems specialist has brought the IT factor to Ripon by launching his own company in the city.
Jonathan Edwards, who has more than a decade's experience working in-house for large corporations including Halifax plc and Pinsent Masons, has set up Integral IT Services in Melmerby.
The fledgling company, which has four staff, provides IT solutions and round-the-clock support to small and medium-sized businesses, in the Ripon and Harrogate district, offering a one-stop shop for all their IT needs.
Integral is an accredited 'Microsoft Small Business specialist' - the only one in the Ripon area, meaning it offers the highest possible standards of service.
The company's first client was North Yorkshire estate agents Gateway Lightowler, for whom it has completely upgraded the IT systems at its four branches in Ripon, Boroughbridge, Easingwold and Thirsk, where it has 24 staff. Integral has also just begun work revamping the company's website.
Integral IT Services director Jonathan Edwards said:
"I decided to base Integral in Ripon as I think there is a definite gap in the market here for a specialist IT company helping smaller enterprises."
"Ripon's business infrastructure is growing fast and a considerable amount of start-up and smaller businesses are sprouting up here, attracted by its cheaper rents and easy access.
"My experience working with big companies in Leeds has given me a deep understanding of customer service, working to tight deadlines and communication, all factors that are crucial to providing successful IT support.
"Most small and medium-sized companies do not have their own IT department. This is where we come in. We become their virtual IT department. Whether they need a completely new system installing, a better back-up plan, new software or just some advice when their computer takes on a mind of its own we cover all bases."
"We also use the latest remote access software, enabling fast resolution of reported faults and queries. This also allows us to keep our costs down and alleviates the frustration of long call-out waiting times."
"From our offices our engineers can connect to any PC with a broadband connection and provide a diagnosis and solution by phone or e-mail."
Gateway Lightowler director Helen Marsden said:
"Integral have been superb in completely stripping out our old systems and introducing more efficient and streamlined ones, improving speed, reliability and security."
"I would definitely recommend them to other businesses. They have the know-how and capacity to bring a lot of value to other similar-sized enterprises."
