Although it is not uncommon for school districts to host their school sites on a Web server managed by their IT Department, there are some compelling reasons to consider outsourcing this to the experts in this area:

Hardware and Software Expense

• With the rapid change in technology, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep servers up-to-date and secure. Due to constant upgrades and the expenses involved with those upgrades, it can save the district money and the IT staff time, by leaving this to companies where this is their core competency.

 

Staff Workloads & Skill Levels

• Your IT staff has its hands full with technology issues. Expecting them to be designers, writers, Public Relations savvy, and to seek out and manage your Web site content on an ongoing basis, is often unrealistic.
• Someone skilled as a dedicated webmaster (programming, writing, graphic design) is a significant expense. The cost for a full-time webmaster can range from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Letting School Webmasters manage your hosting, updates, and design, eliminates the need for an in-house webmaster. You also eliminate the problem with staff turnover and inconsistency in upkeep and style preference.

 

E-rate Eligible

And, don't forget that the hosting portion of your Web site qualifies for e-rate reimbursement. >>Learn more

• Location: Our sites reside on Microsoft 2008 (IIS7) servers located at CrystalTech in Scottsdale, Arizona. This provides a highly stable climate, virtually zero risk of experiencing a natural disaster and is located in a geographical area free from nearly all catastrophic threats that could cripple networks located in other parts of the globe.
• Network: It incorporates complete redundancy within its core network, top to bottom -- from peers, border routers, firewalls, and core routers, multiple redundancies are used throughout for uninterrupted connections. All network equipment is enterprise, service-provider grade with redundancy within all devices. Our network incorporates Multiple Tier 1 connectivity providers with GigE (Gigabit Ethernet) Internet connections for a superior level of thru-put and uptime. Our sites average 99.95% and above uptime on servers, network, and connections.
• Security: We utilize multi-tiered security measures to ensure the physical security of your critical data, including professional security surveillance and man-trap entry points. Site status is continually monitored to assure continuous uptime for the district. Our servers are monitored 24/7/365 in a temperature controlled datacenter with advanced security levels and a 24x7 on-site team. Pre-action fire suppression with VESDA detection.
• Power: Our datacenter receives power via dual feed from separate sub stations. Multiple and redundant 2Mw Caterpillar diesel generators supply robust power for increased system reliability. Onsite fuel reserves provide multiple days of uninterrupted availability. Backup generators are tested weekly. In the event of a prolonged outage, generators can power the datacenter indefinitely.

 

 

 

 

Our full-service hosting includes improvements, updates, and other graphic and content revisions or additions that are necessary to keep your Web site fresh, informative, and accurate for the duration of the hosting agreement.