The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce was in need of new offices due to the expiration of their current lease. In July 2003, the Chamber was scheduled to move to another downtown St. Paul location in close proximity to the State Capitol. In preparation for the move, their staff evaluated their current equipment and determined that they needed to replace an outdated telephone system. In addition, equipment and furnishings were needed for a new conference room being built in the facility to host the Chamber's numerous policy committee meetings.

As part of their search for a new telephone system, the Chamber outlined their system specifications and budget. Marco, a Minnesota Chamber member, was sent the proposal for bid. Jason Becker, Marco Account Representative, worked with Mary Bethke, Chamber Office Manager, to provide a voice communications solution proposal to fit their needs and budget. The Chamber chose a digital Inter-Tel Axxess System with 35 business telephones and 3 Polycom conference phones from Marco. Mary said, “One of the reasons we went with Marco was our past experience with them. Marco's solution came in at a price to meet our budget requirements.”

Marco installed the Chamber's Inter-Tel voice system at their new office in June 2003. Marco's IT Project Coordinator, Mara Anderson, coordinated the installation, and LeAnn Orth, Marco Project Coordinator, organized and conducted the system training for their staff. “Mara is wonderful to work with!” said Mary. “And LeAnn did a great job training our staff.”

When Mary needs updates to their new voice system, she relies on Marco for a quick response to her requests. Mary commented, “When we need changes made to our phone system, I call Marco and they get it done within 24 hours.”

In addition to the voice system, Marco was also able to assist the Chamber with furnishings for their conference room and a LCD projection unit to meet their presentation needs. A Marco Office Furniture representative worked with Mary on the color scheme for the furniture to compliment the room. Marco recommended light weight conference room tables and chairs they can easily move around and put away when they're not in use. They also provided the Chamber with a CAD drawing and furniture specifications to fit as many people as possible in the room.

Working with one vendor for multiple office solutions was a plus for Mary. “For us, Marco was a 'one stop shop.' It was nice to go through one vendor for many products.” The Chamber is pleased with their new voice system and office furnishings and the service Marco provides them. “I would absolutely recommend Marco,” commented Mary. “Their staff is very competent. I've enjoyed working with every one of them.”

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce is the State's largest business advocacy organization. As the voice of business, the Chamber represents more than 3,000 businesses of all types and sizes across Minnesota. The Chamber enhances the global competitiveness of Minnesota companies by crafting and passing pro-business legislation. They recently relocated their office to the 400 Building in downtown St. Paul.