Challenges

1. To provide staff with remote access to software and data stored on corporate servers from any location, device, and network connection
2. To connect branch offices to a central network
3. To give remote sales staff access to the most up-to-date data available, such as inventory levels and pricing
4. To facilitate telecommuting opportunities for staff
5. To provide remote access that is efficient, reliable, and secure
6. To manage access with scalable, centralized, and easy to use tools
7. To deploy thin clients
8. To integrate with Sage MAS 90 and 200

Solution

What is Citrix MetaFrame XP™?

What are its benefits?

Enhanced Productivity
Secure, easy-to-use remote access means that branches, telecommuters, and staff on the road can gain access to the data, software, and other tools available on the corporate network on demand.

Secured Access
Only authorized users with proper permissions will gain entry. All data exchanged via Citrix uses encryption modules certified with U.S. Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140 requirements, and is transported through Transport Layer Security (TLS). Like a key and lock, only authorized users will have the key to use the network.

Seamless Computing Experience
Software and data accessed using Citrix fit smoothly onto local and remote desktops. Staff connecting via Citrix can pass files from their device to the corporate server and vice-versa, and can also print to their local printer. In addition, users can easily create shortcuts to specific applications. For example, remote staff can create a shortcut to their work Outlook account on their home computer, allowing one-click access to work email from home. And the Citrix architecture ensures that connections are quick and free from delays.

Scalable Remote Access
Citrix MetaFrame XP™ is available in different versions to fit companies with different sizes and developmental stages. In addition, Citrix's flexible architecture and management tools makes it easy to modify as the organization grows.

Thin Client Capabilities
Citrix MetaFrame XP™ is the industry standard for providing thin client access. Thin clients essentially function as a display screen for applications that run on a server. Thin clients can either be run within a local network or remotely. Because the software and processing all runs on the server, thin clients do not require the sophisticated hardware that is typically required to run the newer breeds of software such as Sage MAS90 and 200, Microsoft Windows XP, and Microsoft Office 2000.

Integrated with MAS90 and 200
Citrix MetaFrame XP™ is a supported platform for Sage MAS 90 and 200. Deployment of Citrix MetaFrame XP™ as part of the Sage MAS 90 and 200 distributed network can significantly reduce processing congestion while enhancing the performance of MAS 90 and 200 for offsite warehouses, users working from home, remote sales offices, users working on the road (from hotels, etc.), satellite offices, and for remote use in general

The FPA Remote Office Connectivity Solution

FPA has developed a three-part implementation process for the FPA Remote Office Connectivity Solution. This process is managed by FPA consultants with special expertise in implementation management and Citrix.

First, we develop an implementation plan based on the specific needs and requirements of a particular organization with a schedule that imposes no down time. We identify the software licensing needs posed by local and remote access, and make sure that existing permissions for software and data are appropriate for remote access considerations. We also help the organization to find an appropriate server and a specific version of the Citrix MetaFrame XP™ software package based on how that organization will use Citrix.

Second, we install and configure Citrix MetaFrame XP™ based on the specifications identified during the planning stage. After installing Citrix, we conduct extensive local and remote testing to ensure that Citrix functions as specified. FPA creates extensive documentation on Citrix settings that can help to quickly resolve any unexpected issues that may arise or to duplicate settings in the event of disaster recovery.

Finally, we train the company's staff on how to use and manage Citrix. To this end we provide useful documentation, such as how to install Citrix on remote devices and with how to connect using Citrix. We also provide one-on-one or group training sessions that further explain basic and advanced functionality.

FPA provides ongoing maintenance services for Citrix, working with the company to refine, expand, or otherwise modify how Citrix is configured as the organization grows.

Technical Requirements:

Additional Resources

• Citrix White Paper: Planning Your MetaFrame XP Deployment
• Sage Software White Paper: Sage MAS 90 and 200 Microsoft Terminal Services and Citrix MetaFrame

What Now? Contact FPA

For more information, please contact FPA at 818-501-3390 or email us at info@fpainc.com.