The Living Planet Centre – situated in Woking – will open its doors to the public on 1 November 2013, and showcases the latest in sustainable design, technology and construction. Cisco is providing the end-to-end IT infrastructure incorporating some of the technology used to power the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. In turn, Dimension Data is offering its expertise and services to implement the Centre’s infrastructure. The technology design will support WWF’s sustainability goals, which include smarter working and more efficient energy management.
David Southern, Head of IT at WWF-UK “The combination of Cisco's borderless network solution, unified communications and video conferencing will allow WWF staff to work in a way we have long envisaged. Our people will be able to connect, collaborate and communicate more effectively from any location and at any time – this flexible and reliable technology will help ensure that WWF will continue to be able to deliver our strategy and objectives, helping to safeguard the natural world. The support from Dimension Data has also been central in getting all of our systems operating effectively from day one, as well as training our staff on how to make the most from the new technologies.
Phil Smith, CEO of Cisco UK & Ireland, said: “Cisco is all about connecting the unconnected. By contributing to WWF’s remarkable Living Planet Centre, we are helping to connect technology with nature. We’re committed to building a brilliant future in the UK through innovation, education and sustainability. It’s been a pleasure to work with both WWF and Dimension Data who share the same passion and determination for sustainable working practices as we do. The Living Planet Centre will not only be a showcase for sustainable architecture and design, but also sustainable technology.”
Calvin Goom, Dimension Data’s UK MD said, “WWF wanted an IT infrastructure solution that not only enabled staff to work more efficiently, but also supported its green credentials. As a primary ICT partner, we worked with Cisco to create and implement a technology infrastructure. We focused on deploying and integrating secure mobile, communication and collaboration solutions that would allow WWF staff to use a range of technologies such as instant messenger, video conferencing and desk based mobile technology. This enables them to work more productively and keep efficiency at the heart of the business.”