Kubota
Kubota Takes Control of the Future with Network Uplift and Azure Migration from RSI Technologies
Objective
Kubota Australia aimed to streamline costs and simplify operations by transitioning from a private cloud to the scalable Microsoft Azure platform.
Approach
Following a rigorous RFP process, the Kubota team outlined their requirements and solicited tender responses. After thorough evaluation and selection, RSI Technologies was chosen for their extensive expertise in Microsoft Azure and robust managed services offerings.
IT Outcome
- Simplified network with improved performance
- Greater visibility and scalability with Microsoft Azure
- Improved managed service support and service management
- Access to large pool of IT expertise
Business Outcome
- Cost efficiency by moving to a consumption-based model
- Improved end user experience due to less complex network
- Reduced pressure on the in-house IT team allowing for greater focus on serving the business
The Background
Established in 1890, Kubota has built a renowned reputation for delivering high-quality agricultural equipment, evolving into a global leader in the industry. Over the past four decades in Australia, Kubota has been a trusted supplier for customers in agriculture, construction, and utilities, with a commitment to product excellence.
Despite its rich tradition, Kubota embraces the advantages of modern technology. When the decision was made to transition its global subsidiaries and headquarters to a Microsoft Azure environment, the Australian IT team promptly recognized the potential cost savings and flexibility benefits associated with the move.
Despite its rich tradition, Kubota embraces the advantages of modern technology. When the decision was made to transition its global subsidiaries and headquarters to a Microsoft Azure environment, the Australian IT team promptly recognized the potential cost savings and flexibility benefits associated with the move.
The Challenge
Careful cost management and facilitating growth are pivotal to Kubota’s success, evident across all facets of the business, including its IT environment. As cloud technologies matured, Dan Lodder, the incoming Head of Enterprise IT at Kubota Australia, recognized an opportunity to revamp technology delivery methods.
The decision for change stemmed from two main factors. Firstly, our existing Microsoft contracts were nearing expiration. Secondly, Kubota Japan inked a global agreement to migrate all locations to the Microsoft Azure platform,” Lodder explained.
Stepping into this role, I was tasked with making critical decisions at the opportune moment. Having previously worked extensively with Microsoft Azure, I aimed to leverage its benefits. However, our internal IT team lacked experience with this platform, making our choice of partner pivotal.”
Our IT team oversaw multiple data centers, presenting opportunities for process improvements,” Lodder added.
Lodder emphasized shifting industry dynamics as the primary catalyst, noting that his predecessor had already identified the end of the Managed Services Provider (MSP) contract as the ideal timing for change.
In the past, concerns about data sovereignty led to hesitancy towards cloud giants like Amazon and Microsoft Azure,” Lodder remarked.
With Microsoft Azure now boasting more geographic locations than any other cloud service provider, including data centers in various Australian cities, sovereignty concerns have been comprehensively addressed. Yet, Kubota recognized the value of coupling this global service with local expertise and support.
As a company operating across Australia and New Zealand, we saw the opportunity to partner with RSI Technologies,” Lodder concluded.
The decision for change stemmed from two main factors. Firstly, our existing Microsoft contracts were nearing expiration. Secondly, Kubota Japan inked a global agreement to migrate all locations to the Microsoft Azure platform,” Lodder explained.
Stepping into this role, I was tasked with making critical decisions at the opportune moment. Having previously worked extensively with Microsoft Azure, I aimed to leverage its benefits. However, our internal IT team lacked experience with this platform, making our choice of partner pivotal.”
Our IT team oversaw multiple data centers, presenting opportunities for process improvements,” Lodder added.
Lodder emphasized shifting industry dynamics as the primary catalyst, noting that his predecessor had already identified the end of the Managed Services Provider (MSP) contract as the ideal timing for change.
In the past, concerns about data sovereignty led to hesitancy towards cloud giants like Amazon and Microsoft Azure,” Lodder remarked.
With Microsoft Azure now boasting more geographic locations than any other cloud service provider, including data centers in various Australian cities, sovereignty concerns have been comprehensively addressed. Yet, Kubota recognized the value of coupling this global service with local expertise and support.
As a company operating across Australia and New Zealand, we saw the opportunity to partner with RSI Technologies,” Lodder concluded.
IT Outcome
Kubota opted for a solution proposed by RSI Technologies, which entailed upgrading and streamlining its network by deploying Cisco Meraki SD-WAN. This involved decommissioning multiple data centers and migrating production workloads to Microsoft Azure. Under a Microsoft Azure Managed Services contract with RSI Technologies, Kubota benefits from ongoing monitoring and support from a team of certified experts across various Microsoft Azure specialties. Additionally, support for Kubota’s network devices was integrated into the solution, allowing the in-house team to focus more on business growth initiatives.
RSI Technologies provides structure and a diverse talent pool. We had to weigh the cost-effectiveness of utilizing our internal infrastructure team versus leveraging external expertise. Instead of our team troubleshooting server issues at odd hours, they can now focus on strategic initiatives, knowing that aspect is covered,” Lodder highlighted. “We’ve shifted from physical cable connections to virtual setups, which has streamlined our operations significantly.”
The transition process was smooth, with close collaboration between the RSI Technologies and Kubota teams, supported by Microsoft. Knowledge transfer was a crucial aspect, with the in-house team embracing the opportunity to learn from Microsoft Azure specialists.
While the migration from Infrastructure as a Service to Microsoft Azure primarily involved ‘lift and shift,’ we seized opportunities to adopt new systems where there was clear benefit. RSI Technologies played a vital role in identifying these opportunities,” Lodder explained.
The greatest advantage is having access to expertise and the option for hands-on learning. This project facilitated significant knowledge transfer from RSI Technologies. We have junior team members rising through the ranks and gaining invaluable experience. Whether it’s about licenses or other aspects, having the right person to consult with is invaluable. The team at RSI Technologies dedicated time to discuss options, perform analysis, and provide feedback, contributing to overall skill enhancement in this new environment.”
The transition planning commenced in late 2020, amidst the Kubota team’s busy schedule supporting the business through evolving COVID-19 restrictions. Effective project management was paramount in orchestrating the six-month migration, ensuring seamless progress despite interconnections with Japan.
RSI Technologies provides structure and a diverse talent pool. We had to weigh the cost-effectiveness of utilizing our internal infrastructure team versus leveraging external expertise. Instead of our team troubleshooting server issues at odd hours, they can now focus on strategic initiatives, knowing that aspect is covered,” Lodder highlighted. “We’ve shifted from physical cable connections to virtual setups, which has streamlined our operations significantly.”
The transition process was smooth, with close collaboration between the RSI Technologies and Kubota teams, supported by Microsoft. Knowledge transfer was a crucial aspect, with the in-house team embracing the opportunity to learn from Microsoft Azure specialists.
While the migration from Infrastructure as a Service to Microsoft Azure primarily involved ‘lift and shift,’ we seized opportunities to adopt new systems where there was clear benefit. RSI Technologies played a vital role in identifying these opportunities,” Lodder explained.
The greatest advantage is having access to expertise and the option for hands-on learning. This project facilitated significant knowledge transfer from RSI Technologies. We have junior team members rising through the ranks and gaining invaluable experience. Whether it’s about licenses or other aspects, having the right person to consult with is invaluable. The team at RSI Technologies dedicated time to discuss options, perform analysis, and provide feedback, contributing to overall skill enhancement in this new environment.”
The transition planning commenced in late 2020, amidst the Kubota team’s busy schedule supporting the business through evolving COVID-19 restrictions. Effective project management was paramount in orchestrating the six-month migration, ensuring seamless progress despite interconnections with Japan.
Conclusion
Lodder emphasized the importance of thoroughly evaluating potential IT partners when considering a transition to the public cloud and ongoing managed services. Rather than relying on preconceived notions, he recommends focusing on the required skills and compatibility with the internal team.
The standout aspect was RSI’s project management capabilities and the expertise they bring to the table. They provide teams of engineers and data experts tailored to our needs. Their meticulous project management process ensures seamless integration.”
As technology evolves rapidly, Lodder highlights the role of IT partners in filtering essential information for Kubota. Regular communication facilitates future planning and positions the business to leverage sound technology decisions.
We engage with our Rsi Account Manager frequently, and they bring in relevant specialists as needed, whether it’s infrastructure, Microsoft platforms, or licensing experts.”
I wouldn’t continue working with them if I didn’t value the relationships. They make our lives easier, share in our successes, and enable us to achieve more as a modest-sized business,” Lodder concluded.
The standout aspect was RSI’s project management capabilities and the expertise they bring to the table. They provide teams of engineers and data experts tailored to our needs. Their meticulous project management process ensures seamless integration.”
As technology evolves rapidly, Lodder highlights the role of IT partners in filtering essential information for Kubota. Regular communication facilitates future planning and positions the business to leverage sound technology decisions.
We engage with our Rsi Account Manager frequently, and they bring in relevant specialists as needed, whether it’s infrastructure, Microsoft platforms, or licensing experts.”
I wouldn’t continue working with them if I didn’t value the relationships. They make our lives easier, share in our successes, and enable us to achieve more as a modest-sized business,” Lodder concluded.