New Zealand IT managed services company CodeBlue has signed a reseller agreement with Apple as part of a range of moves designed to provide Apple business users with a full managed services solution.

Ken Davis, CodeBlue executive director says the moves are in response to strong market demand for robust enterprise-strength services from companies looking for seamless support for multi-vendor networks which include Apple iPads, MacBooks and desktops integrated into a Microsoft back-end server environment.

“Whether it’s CXOs wanting to integrate iPads, or a design department looking to integrate Apple desktops with a wider Microsoft server and desktop environment, CodeBlue offers a full range of services, as well as providing service desk, onsite support and Virtual CIO services,” says Davis.

He points to CodeBlue customer Whitecliffe College of Arts and Design as an example of CodeBlue’s Apple service and support capability, as part of a multi-vendor multi-device network.

Auckland-based Whitecliffe is the country’s largest independent art and design school. Its network integrates 100 staff Apple devices into a Microsoft server network, running specialist design applications, as well as full administration systems. Students log on to the system from their device of choice. CodeBlue’s managed service supports the entire network. A CodeBlue staff member is on site, backed by CodeBlue’s service desk, and a formal Virtual CIO service delivering IT strategic planning and review.

Key elements of CodeBlue’s Apple services include Apple reseller accreditation, participation in the Apple Consultants network, specialist Apple-trained and certified staff, and a state-of-the-art Apple knowledge base for rapid service desk problem resolution.