Steaming Ahead with Enhanced Festival Connectivity
WRSA Steam Rally achieved record sales and zero downtime with Integra's bespoke connectivity and network solutions.
Full Steam Ahead: Pioneering Connectivity in Somerset
The West Somerset Railway Association (WSRA) Steam and Vintage Rally is not just an event; it's a yearly pilgrimage for approximately 8,000 steam and vintage transport enthusiasts. Organised in the heart of rural Somerset, this rally is the lifeline of the WSRA charity, supporting the preservation and enjoyment of the historical West Somerset Railway.
The rally brings together a community of exhibitors, volunteers, and attendees for a nostalgic dive into the past, coupled with the enjoyment of modern conveniences like food, souvenirs, and artifacts.
The event's charm, however, faced a modern-day challenge: ensuring stable connectivity in a location bereft of local fibre infrastructure. A previous snag, where card payment terminals failed during peak hours, underscored the urgency of a reliable solution to prevent sales and fundraising shortfalls.
The Connectivity Conundrum: Keeping a Vintage Rally in the Fast Lane
Positioned in a rural setting, the WSRA Rally's connectivity challenges were multifaceted. The primary obstacle was the lack of local fibre infrastructure, a common issue in less urbanised areas. This deficiency became particularly problematic during peak event hours when the need for stable internet connectivity was at its highest. Critical services such as card payments and information booths suffered, directly impacting sales and the overall visitor experience.
Moreover, the requirement to extend reliable internet access across various key locations, including the drinks tent, ticket booths, and exhibitors' areas, added another layer of complexity. The goal was clear but daunting: to ensure fast and reliable internet speeds for over 8,000 attendees scattered across the event space.
Revolutionising Rally Connectivity with Integra
Integra stepped into this challenging scenario with a comprehensive plan tailored to the unique needs of the WSRA Rally. By meticulously reviewing the site plans and understanding the event's specific requirements, Integra crafted a solution that promised not just to meet but exceed expectations. The installation of temporary structures was promptly followed by the deployment of radio links, ensuring that critical areas of the event space were bathed in robust internet connectivity.
Multiple WiFi networks were established, catering to the needs of exhibitors and staff, while a private network dedicated to secure card payments was prioritised. The result was a seamless digital infrastructure that delivered over 300Mbps of speed to the site, ensuring zero downtime throughout the event and enabling record sales, especially noted at the beer tent.
