GUARANTEED OPERATIVITY IN RECORD TIME AT PALAZZO TORNABUONI

The Networking Project at Palazzo Tornabuoni: guaranteed operability in record time

Palazzo Tornabuoni is a historic building in the heart of Florence, managed by the Fratini Group since 1 November 2024. This agreement for the Service required a complete technological and operational reorganization in very short time to ensure a seamless transition and continuity of services, a process successfully completed by the TT Tecnosistemi team in just 10 days.

THE CHALLENGE: STARTING FROM SCRATCH

The change of management meant that the entire technological infrastructure of the Palace had to be rebuilt from scratch. Fratini Group, represented by CIO Paolo Buti and PM IT Claudia Baldini, both of Fingen S.p.A. and operating on behalf of Palazzo Tornabuoni Srl, has involved us to proceed in the shortest time, while ensuring continuous connectivity to the VIP guests of the Palace. The goal set was ambitious: to build a new network, restore IT services, install new servers and ensure the security, efficiency and reliability of the entire infrastructure. All in a tight timeline, within 10 days, including the installation of new hardware and implementation of innovative solutions.

Work Phases and Organisational Complexity

The project was divided into several phases, each of which involved a significant level of organisational complexity:

1. Planning and Ordering of Material: To ensure availability at the time of transition we had to order, well in advance, all new hardware needed from network equipment to servers, Without being able to physically access the spaces for a direct analysis of the situation.
2. Analysis of the existing network: Through a remote analysis, we were able to identify the existing critical issues and predict the necessary changes to reduce potential problems during the implementation phase.
3. Lab Implementation and Preliminary Configuration: We have completed all the technical configurations in advance, preparing to install the new systems as quickly as possible once access is obtained.
4. Firewall replacement and Security Review: Two new firewalls have been installed to ensure maximum network security, adapting it to the new management requirements.
5. Wiring Overhaul and Rack Reconfiguration: Existing racks have been rearranged and cleaned, and all switches (about 40) have been replaced and re-configured to improve system management and stability.
6. Implementation of the New Wi-Fi System: More than 100 new access points have been installed to improve connection coverage and reliability, using Aruba Networks' solutions.
7. Installing Servers and Virtual Machines: We installed a new server, adding it to the two already present, and created new virtual machines to support the IT services of the Palace.

SERVICES PROVIDED AND INFRASTRUCTURE

The project involved not only the replacement of network infrastructures, but also the configuration of a number of essential services:

• Wi-Fi for guests and residents: We have implemented a separate Wi-Fi network for guests and one for residents, ensuring privacy and high performance.
• Video TV services: Video distribution systems for television entertainment have been implemented in each apartment.
• VOIP services: TT Tecnosistemi has set up a networking environment to host the VOIP platform, chosen to improve the telephony system and improve internal communication.

A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT WITH FUTURE PROSPECTS THANKS TO A DEDICATED AND COORDINATED TEAM

The project involved a highly specialised team at the client’s site and remotely to work in synergy and ensure that each phase of the project was completed on time. The whole operation required a high level of accountability and coordination to maintain focus on objectives and timing. The success of this project paves the way for further improvements in the future. The implemented system has been designed to be easily upgradable and scalable, allowing the customer to carry out any technological upgrades smoothly and without interruption.

Conclusion

The technological transition at Palazzo Tornabuoni was a complex challenge, but also an example of how detailed planning, effective communication and teamwork can ensure success in even the most challenging projects. The experience gained allows us to look with confidence at the next steps, with the aim of continuing to improve the technological infrastructure of the building and meet the needs of the customer in an increasingly innovative and technologically advanced context. Claudia Baldini, PM IT of Fingen S.p.A. confirms: "The project for the reconstruction of the networking architecture has been successfully completed, with the complete restoration of the infrastructures related to Wi-Fi, TV, VoIP telephones and application management. Thanks to the valuable collaboration of TT Tecnosistemi, we have been able to guarantee the continuity and efficiency of all technological services, ensuring a rapid resumption and without interruption of the activities of Palazzo Tornabuoni. The final result fully meets operational requirements, consolidating a solid and high-performance technological base."