Client: A national automotive and tire services retail and commercial chain.

Tech Need: Network Upgrade with Infrastructure

Timeframe: 6 Months

Number of Sites: 1,248 Locations across the United States

Estimated Hours to Complete: 20,000 hours

Our Solution: SmartSource’s enterprise-scalable solution facilitated the rapid deployment of a targeted and selected team of field engineers to 1,248 retail automotive sites for after-hours network upgrades. This upgrade deployment enabled additional initiatives aligned with the customer’s forward-thinking technology strategies as outlined in the Customer’s Book of Business. The comprehensive upgrade involved conducting on-site surveys and providing real-time solutions, including up to 36 low-voltage drops terminating to network cabinets. The scope also encompassed patching to Meraki 48-port managed switches and firewalls with cellular failover capabilities via a SIM card. Furthermore, SmartSource ensured the inclusion of terminated future technology service loops, preparing for forthcoming advancements. To ensure effective communication and quality assurance, SmartSource developed a robust communications and reporting plan, collaborating daily with the customer’s support team for real-time updates and targeted quality assurance paths.

Unique Challenges:

Managing requirement change management throughout the project

Accommodating site location variances beyond the standard footprint

Navigating winter weather conditions in the Northeast for scheduling purposes

Overcoming challenges posed by COVID-19

Addressing additional quality assurance mandates introduced during week 18 of the 24-week project

SmartSource Achievements:

Successful completion of all targeted store locations

Incorporation of additional non-targeted sites into the project, previously deemed exempt

Establishment of a fully capable SmartSource enterprise team

Achieving 100% customer satisfaction with adherence to new corporate standards