The network Operations center (NOC) for ECS is in their facility. Hourly client data is backed up to their NOC, and all data is backed up nightly to a third-party data center in London. Physical security at the Indianapolis NOC is a locked front door after hours. A receptionist is at the front door during business hours. Most engagements are structured fixed monthly fee. Specialized Accounting is evaluating its post-acquisition options on whether or not to absorb the IT firm and utilize all its resources internally or allow it to operate as a standalone. There are multiple pros and cons to each approach. In both cases ECS will provide the IT infrastructure services to SAI. C Questions After considering the above facts of the case, your team need to determine: 1. Would you recommend integrating ECS into Specialized Accounting or would you recommend it operate as a separate entity? Why or why not? a. Would you allow ECS to continue to serve its current clients? b. Would potential new service offerings impact management's decision to integrate or not? c. Make specific recommendations on how to proceed. 2. What criteria did you use to make your decision? 3. What risks must Specialized Accounting consider? a. How would you mitigate/manage/reduce those risks? ECS? The network Operations center (NOC) for ECS is in their facility. Hourly client data is backed up to their NOC, and all data is backed up nightly to a third-party data center in London. Physical security at the Indianapolis NOC is a locked front door after hours. A receptionist is at the front door during business hours. Most engagements are structured fixed monthly fee. Specialized Accounting is evaluating its post-acquisition options on whether or not to absorb the IT firm and utilize all its resources internally or allow it to operate as a standalone. There are multiple pros and cons to each approach. In both cases ECS will provide the IT infrastructure services to SAI. C Questions After considering the above facts of the case, your team need to determine: 1. Would you recommend integrating ECS into Specialized Accounting or would you recommend it operate as a separate entity? Why or why not? a. Would you allow ECS to continue to serve its current clients? b. Would potential new service offerings impact management's decision to integrate or not? c. Make specific recommendations on how to proceed. 2. What criteria did you use to make your decision? 3. What risks must Specialized Accounting consider? a. How would you mitigate/manage/reduce those risks? ECS