When a nonprofit outgrows its IT setup, switching to a managed IT provider can feel overwhelming. Concerns about data migration, training, and maintaining daily operations without disruption can cause hesitation. The Connecticut Project, a social change organization dedicated to uniting communities, ideas, and resources to improve systems and generate real-world outcomes for lower-income or asset-limited individuals, faced these exact challenges.

With a growing team and an evolving hybrid work model, they needed an IT provider that could simplify their transition from Google tools to Microsoft 365 while maintaining a high level of support. They found their answer in CorCystems, a trusted MSP managed services provider for many nonprofits. 

This case study breaks down how our team at CorCystems tackled The Connecticut Project’s IT challenges, ensured a seamless transition, and helped them operate with greater efficiency and security.

 

 

The Connecticut Project’s IT Challenges

As a nonprofit, The Connecticut Project had a straightforward goal: to keep technology simple, effective, and aligned with its mission. But as their operations expanded, so did their IT needs. What once worked for a smaller, fully remote team no longer supported their evolving structure. Their existing tools and IT setup started creating inefficiencies that slowed them down.

1. Outdated Collaboration Tools

The team relied heavily on Google tools for file sharing, communication, and project management. While these worked initially, they became limiting as the organization grew. File organization became more difficult, and team members struggled to keep track of documents. 

As collaboration with external partners increased, the need for a more structured and scalable system became clear. Microsoft 365 offered more robust document management, communication, and security features, but the transition felt like a significant shift. They needed reassurance that staff would adapt quickly without disrupting workflows.

 

2. A Need for Hands-On Support

The Connecticut Project had worked with an IT partner who provided a highly personal approach, responding quickly to requests and ensuring staff felt supported. A switch to a new MSP managed services provider raised concerns about whether they would receive the same level of engagement. 

Would a larger IT provider understand their nonprofit’s unique needs? Would they still receive timely responses to technical issues? These questions made choosing the right IT provider even more critical.

 

3. Hybrid Work & Local IT Support

The shift from a fully remote model to a hybrid structure introduced new logistical challenges. Team members now split time between working remotely and collaborating in person. They needed an IT provider that could offer local, on-site support when necessary, ensuring that in-office operations ran smoothly. Remote-only IT services wouldn’t cut it anymore.

Beyond just fixing technical problems, they wanted a long-term IT partner—one that could provide proactive guidance, anticipate their needs, and help them make strategic technology decisions that would support their mission-driven work.

 

“One of our biggest concerns was the transition from Google to Microsoft and making sure the team felt prepared to use those tools.” — Adriana Joseph, Chief Administrative Officer

 

With these challenges in mind, The Connecticut Project needed an MSP managed services provider that not only understood nonprofit operations but could also provide hands-on support, streamline their transition, and ensure their technology worked for them—not against them.

 

 

CorCystems’ Approach: A Thoughtful IT Strategy

The Connecticut Project needed an IT partner who could take the stress out of the transition, minimize downtime, and ensure their team felt confident using new tools. CorCystems developed a hands-on approach that prioritized planning, training, and long-term support to make the migration as smooth as possible.

 

1. A Clear IT Roadmap

Rather than making abrupt changes, CorCystems created a structured migration plan that allowed The Connecticut Project to transition at a comfortable pace. This included:

• A full IT assessment – Identifying inefficiencies, security risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• A step-by-step transition plan – Breaking the migration into manageable phases with clear milestones.
• Regular check-ins – Keeping the team informed, addressing concerns, and adjusting as needed.

 

“We had our initial meeting, went over the scope of work, and said, ‘Great, this works for us.’ Then we proceeded to lay out the timeline and the key elements for implementation.” — Adriana Joseph

 

2. A Smooth Migration to Microsoft 365

Moving an entire nonprofit to a new platform can be overwhelming, but CorCystems ensured every step was handled methodically.

• Seamless coordination – They worked directly with The Connecticut Project’s previous IT provider to manage Microsoft licensing and transfer services without disruption.
• Tailored staff training – Team members had varying levels of experience with Microsoft 365, so training was customized to meet different needs.
• Ongoing refinements – They didn’t just migrate files and leave; they helped optimize SharePoint to improve document management as the team grew.

 

“We have worked on and will continue to refine the SharePoint structure, making sure we create a file management system that works for the organization.” — Adriana Joseph

 

3. Reliable, Ongoing Support

Beyond the initial setup, CorCystems provided ongoing support to ensure The Connecticut Project’s IT environment stayed secure and efficient.

• On-site event support – A technician was available during key meetings, ensuring smooth operations without technical hiccups.
• Phishing & security training – Staff received hands-on guidance to recognize and prevent cyber threats.
• Scalable IT solutions – A per-user pricing model kept costs manageable while allowing room for growth.

 

“We initially saw the impact of working with CorCystems in our environment. We felt confident in our security and had a reliable partner to go to for questions—whether small help desk issues or larger infrastructure needs.” — Amy Plocinik, Operations Coordinator

 

With CorCystems’ strategic approach, The Connecticut Project didn’t just switch IT providers—they gained a long-term MSP managed services partner who understood their nonprofit’s needs and supported their mission at every step.

 

 

The Results: A More Efficient & Secure Nonprofit

With CorCystems as their MSP managed services partner, The Connecticut Project now operates with greater efficiency, security, and confidence in their IT systems. Their team no longer worries about IT disruptions and can focus entirely on advancing their nonprofit mission.

• Stable day-to-day operations – IT issues that previously slowed them down have been resolved, allowing their team to work without interruptions.
• Stronger cybersecurity – Phishing awareness training has helped staff recognize and avoid potential threats, reducing the risk of security breaches.
• Better collaboration – Microsoft 365 has streamlined communication, making it easier for team members to share information and work together, whether in the office or remotely.
• Seamless event support – On-site IT assistance ensures meetings and key events run smoothly, eliminating last-minute technical hurdles.
• Improved file management – SharePoint has provided a structured and secure way to store and access documents, making it easier to find what they need without wasting time.
• Reliable IT support – Whether it’s a quick help desk request or a larger infrastructure need, The Connecticut Project has a trusted IT provider they can turn to for solutions.
• Cost-effective IT solutions – A scalable pricing model ensures their IT services remain within budget while adapting to their evolving needs.

 

“We’ve been able to engage with external partners through our SharePoint site and securely share files and information, which has helped us meet our budget goals.” — Adriana Joseph

 

By partnering with an experienced IT provider, The Connecticut Project has gained more than just reliable IT support—they now have a long-term strategy that keeps their nonprofit running efficiently and securely.

 

 

Why Nonprofits Trust CorCystems as Their IT Provider

For nonprofits, choosing an MSP managed services provider isn’t just about fixing tech issues—it’s about finding a long-term partner who understands their mission. CorCystems offers:

• Cost-Effective IT Management – Transparent pricing that fits nonprofit budgets.
• Personalized, Hands-On Support – A team that takes the time to understand and support your needs.
• Scalable Solutions – IT services that grow with your organization.
• Proactive Security & Training – Keeping your team safe from cyber threats.

 

“I would recommend CorCystems to a nonprofit looking for a managed IT firm. They are personable, engaging, and highly knowledgeable. With their great communication, the process is seamless.” — Amy Plocinik

 

Ready to Improve Your Nonprofit’s IT?

If you’re looking for an IT provider that understands nonprofit challenges and can help your organization transition smoothly, CorCystems is ready to help. 

Contact us today to learn how MSP managed services can simplify your IT and allow you to focus on what matters most—your mission.