Technology can only be an effective tool to advance businesses if people and processes are well-aligned in maximising its usage. In an industry where innovation rapidly evolves, Southern Cross Computer Systems has stayed ahead of the trends through flexibility, agility and an openness to new ideas. By pushing the boundaries of technology, the Victoria-based company has remained on top after 32 successful years.

Southern Cross supplies and integrates technologies from leading vendors, manages information technology (IT) infrastructure, provides consulting in security, governance, risk and compliance, and develops software as a service (SaaS) solutions. It is committed to deploying diverse technologies through its four core businesses while maintaining close relationships with its customers.

"We're good at engaging our clients in improving their processes," says Mark Kalmus, executive director. "We understand the issues in integrating businesses that span a large country like Australia. So we try to get close and find out as much as we can from the customer in order for the client to achieve better results, upgrade their practices and make sure they maximise the use of the technology."

The company's expertise in cloud security is one of its key assets. However, its role as internal auditor in compliance standards and strategic IT health enables it to further broaden its relevance to and engagement with customers.