BACKGROUND
A leading company specializing in field joint coating applications for the oil and gas industry required a comprehensive IT infrastructure solution to execute a smooth carve- out from its parent company while meeting the stringent TSA (Transition Service Agreement) deadlines.
This process included end-user migration, new networks across global sites, with system and application migrations.
Since the NewCo had extremely limited IT leadership, RKON proactively provided comprehensive project oversight to this engagement to ensure its success. RKON leveraged our team of experts, collaborating with program managers, project managers, and subject matter experts.
THE CHALLENGE
This company faced significant hurdles during its carve-out process, starting with the condition of its end-user devices. Over 200 laptops required re- imaging, but many were outdated and needed replacing before the company’s next sale. Replacing these devices presented a financial and logistical challenge, as the company had not budgeted for new equipment. To address this, RKON developed a solution that balanced replacing the oldest devices while extending the life of others through re-imaging.
The company’s global operations added another layer of complexity. With sites spanning the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Chile, many infrastructure upgrades had to be executed remotely. RKON’s compliance readiness experts possessed in-depth knowledge of the unique regulatory challenges and requirements in regions like Saudi Arabia and Chile.
Additionally, the clients rotating workforce on oil rigs and barges posed difficulties in ensuring all devices were available for re- imaging, especially when some workers were disconnected from the internet for weeks at a time.
Beyond device and network challenges, the client also faced the unexpected need to replace its entire IT infrastructure. During the due diligence phase—conducted by a third party—it was discovered that all networks, servers, and related infrastructure were out of support. This led to additional, unplanned costs and required RKON to act quickly to address these critical gaps.
Finally, the client faced a tight 90- day timeline to meet Transition Service Agreement (TSA) deadlines with additional and unexpected scope changes. RKON had to deliver flexible solutions and execute swiftly to avoid financial penalties for TSA non-compliance.
THE SOLUTION
Managing multiple work streams simultaneously, RKON established:
New IT Foundation:
- Established a new Active Directory (AD) domain and Office 365 tenant.
- Migrated applications (e.g., AutoCAD) and file server data for U.S. and Saudi operations.
Global Network Implementation:
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Pre-configured equipment in the U.S. for domestic sites while leveraging remote hands and local staff members for international deployments.
End-User Device Transition:
- Re-imaged over 200 laptops and enrolled them in Microsoft Intune/Autopilot.
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Coordinated with local staff to streamline the process of replacing and returning systems.
Project Oversight:
- Provided program and project management expertise to ensure that deadlines were met.
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Acted as the de facto IT leadership for the organization.
Strategic Partnerships:
- Leveraged key partnerships with technology providers like Quest, Dell, and Microsoft to streamline the implementation.
AVOIDED TSA FINES
OPERATIONALIZED IT INFRASTRUCTURE FOR SCALABILITY
REDUCED COSTS BY PROVIDING STRATEGIC GUIDANCE
THE OUTCOMES
RKON successfully delivered a full carve-out solution on time and proactively addressed skills gaps, enabling the client to operate independently.
Compliance and Timeliness:
- Avoided financial penalties by completing all milestones within the 90-day TSA timeline. Client is compliant and has full understanding of compliance requirements based on region.
Operational Readiness:
- Delivered a robust IT infrastructure that supported current operations and positioned the company for future growth.
Cost Optimization:
- Provided strategic guidance that helped the client make informed IT leadership decisions, resulting in long-term cost savings and better position them for sale in the future.
Seamless Transition:
- Maintained continuity for end- users through web-based email access during the transition from the other side of the world.
The pace and quality of technology is soaring. RKON’s strategic approach modernized their IT environment to position the company for future growth opportunities.
ABOUT RKON
Operating as a security-first IT advisory and cybersecurity firm since 1998, RKON partners with private equity and enterprise organizations to deliver end-to-end solutions—from strategy to execution to managed services. Our expertise lies in anticipating challenges, mitigating risks, and architecting custom IT solutions that enable businesses to innovate with confidence, adapt quickly, and operate seamlessly.
To do this, RKON provides IT solutions in three stages: first building an advisory practice that sends the strategy in the right direction; an execution practice that ensures the vision is turned into reality; and a management practice that keeps the vision on track as IT evolves to best serve the business.
Where others see challenge, we see opportunity.
