The FourNet team recently organised a special visit that brought Hardik Ajmera, Vice President of Product Management at Extreme Networks, all the way from Boston, USA, to meet with our long-standing customer, Leeds Beckett University at their Headingley Campus in the UK.
This visit was a fantastic opportunity for Extreme Networks to demonstrate their product strategy to Leeds Beckett University who already use their networking technology, particularly focusing on their Wireless portfolio. The discussion delved into the important role that Extreme Network’s technology plays in enhancing connectivity, learning, and driving student engagement, where the network essentially becomes the lifeblood of the university.
Delivering great day-to-day experiences
As with any customer visit, there was a lot to cover, especially one with a diverse estate like Leeds Beckett University. On this occasion, the primary focus was on how Leeds Beckett University can continually enhance the day-to-day experience for it’s students. Looking at how a seamless and robust wireless network is integral to achieving this goal.
Managing the growing demand on Wireless Networks
We also looked at ways of coping with the growing demand on Wireless Networks, as we are seeing that each person now typically possesses three wireless devices. The visit addressed the importance of networks to accommodate this surge in demand, emphasising the role of Wireless Access Points in supporting various applications.
Cloud campus management
Additionally, we were keen to share some ideas on how leveraging location-based services could enable better campus management. From monitoring student movements to ensuring lecture room occupancy data for estate management, Cloud-driven networking could be a key driver in achieving these goals.
Planning for the future
The next phase for Leeds Beckett University is to realise the benefits that machine learning and artificial intelligence can bring through cloud management. As the student experience is paramount, having the "extra pair of hands" that artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) bring will increase IT efficiency by providing meaningful data-driven insights to help with wireless anomaly detection and offer troubleshooting tips to reduce the meantime to resolution before issues are reported by the users. Additionally, the management tools will allow the university IT staff to automate time-consuming and menial tasks allowing them to focus on more strategic activities.
Why we work closely with our customers
This collaborative visit demonstrates the strong partnership between FourNet, our partners and our customers. By working closely with partners like Extreme Networks and understanding the unique pain points of customers like Leeds Beckett University, FourNet ensures that the solutions provided go beyond being mere products - they are integral components in creating an optimised, future-ready educational environment.
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and education, FourNet remains committed to fostering partnerships that prioritise the success and satisfaction of their customers. The visit to Leeds Beckett University is a great example of how this commitment translates into tangible benefits for educational institutions.
Bill Cooper
Senior Marketing Executive
