How Entec Systems supports 3 North with resilient infrastructure, seamless collaboration, and long-term IT strategy.
Client Overview
3 North is an architecture firm specializing in both residential and commercial projects, including high-profile work such as a downtown amphitheater in Richmond, Virginia.
As a design-driven organization, 3 North relies heavily on large files, 3D renderings, and collaborative workflows that demand reliable, high-performance IT infrastructure, particularly for local file access and synchronization.
The Challenge
When Peter Dove joined 3 North as CFO, he brought prior experience working with Entec at a previous organization. At the time, 3 North was using another IT partner, but several challenges quickly surfaced:
- Technology needs were not aligned with the realities of architectural design work and large file sizes
- Infrastructure required modernization to support local storage and performance-intensive applications
- Collaboration and remote access solutions were limited, creating risk during unexpected disruptions
- The firm needed a more proactive, strategic IT partner, not someone who just stepped in when things went wrong
Recognizing these gaps, Entec was selected in 2018 for Complete Care managed IT services and support of their 35+ team members.
The Entec Approach
From the outset, Entec partnered closely with 3 North to modernize infrastructure while preserving the performance and reliability required for architectural workflows.
- Infrastructure Modernization & Migration
Shortly after onboarding, Entec led a Microsoft 365 migration, followed by a server and hardware refresh. Given the size and complexity of 3D design files, Entec implemented a local server and storage solution that allowed teams to work efficiently on-site while maintaining proper synchronization and data integrity. - Problem-Solving During COVID
When the COVID-19 pandemic forced a rapid shift to remote work, traditional VPN solutions proved ineffective due to extremely large file sizes. Entec evaluated cloud and virtualization options and ultimately designed a solution that equipped staff with high-performance desktop machines in the office. Employees were able to remotely access those desktops, preserving local server performance while enabling uninterrupted work from home. The solution was implemented quickly and proved highly successful—keeping teams productive during a critical and uncertain period. - Resilient Backup & Data Protection
Entec implemented a robust Datto backup solution, providing:- Frequent backups during business hours
- Rapid recovery from accidental file changes or deletions
- Offsite replication to protect against local outages or disasters
In the event of a major disruption, systems could be restored or re-created at another location, ensuring business continuity and peace of mind.
- Office Moves & Ongoing Support
Over the years, Entec has supported 3 North through multiple office moves—coordinating internet services, server relocations, cabling contractors, and wireless access point placement. This ensured every desk was properly wired and every space fully functional from day one.
The Results
Through a long-standing partnership with Entec, 3 North has built an IT environment that supports both day-to-day design work and long-term business planning.
- Maintained high-performance local file access for large architectural and 3D design files
- Enabled seamless remote work without sacrificing speed or collaboration
- Protected critical data with frequent, reliable backups and offsite replication
- Successfully navigated office moves with minimal disruption
- Established a proactive, trusted IT partnership focused on what’s next—not just what’s broken
Client Perspective
Peter Dove, CFO | 3 North
“When I joined 3 North, I had already experienced Entec Systems as a client—and when we began evaluating new IT partners, it was clear they were the right fit. The difference has always been the people and the relationship. Our lead engineer understands both the technical and business sides of IT, responds quickly, and supports our team with patience and respect.
Operationally, Entec brought the structure and stability we were missing. Their framework, infrastructure, and proactive communication have created a reliable, secure environment we didn’t have before. The decision to switch was easy, and the trust we’ve built gives me confidence that Entec will always do right by us—not just as a provider, but as a true partner.”
Jay Hugo, Managing Principal
“I’ve worked with many IT providers over the years, and Entec stands head and shoulders above the rest. They’re fully integrated into our team—we don’t think of them as outsourced support, but as part of 3 North. Their engineers are highly skilled, efficient problem-solvers, not people learning on the job.
They earned my trust quickly by understanding our risk tolerance, anticipating our needs, and keeping day-to-day operations running smoothly so leadership can stay focused on strategic investments. From stress-testing disaster scenarios to executing a seamless office move and advising on infrastructure during construction, Entec consistently proves their value. It’s a huge relief not to have to worry about IT anymore.”
A True Partnership
This account stands out for its strong, collaborative relationship. Entec maintains close, ongoing communication with 3 North’s leadership—matching the right engineers to the client, prioritizing personal relationships, and regularly asking, “What else can we help you with?”
Annual planning sessions help align IT investments with future goals, ensuring technology continues to support the firm’s evolving needs.
Looking Ahead
With Entec’s Complete Care managed IT services, 3 North has transformed IT into a reliable foundation for creative, high-impact work. Together, the teams continue to plan ahead, adapt to new challenges, and ensure technology never gets in the way of great design.
Interested in a proactive IT partnership built around your business?
Contact Entec Systems to learn how Complete Care can support performance, resilience, and growth.