Today, Elastx is a highly sought-after alternative for companies that deliver business-critical services with sensitive data. But how did it all start?
A decade ago, the founders, Henrik Grankvist and Joakim Öhman, saw a gap in the market for reliable cloud services, as the options available were limited to a few large international companies. They saw an opportunity to meet the growing demand for secure IT services in their home country, and thus Elastx was born.
A Swedish cloud is created
The year was 2012. It became increasingly clear to the Swedish public that digitization was not just a trend, but a necessary evolution. Traditional methods such as stamp cards, physical filing systems, internal mail and service desks were being replaced with more efficient digital systems. This shift also meant that both archives and government services would now be accessible through the internet.
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Okay, maybe that was a bit of an exaggeration. While the concept of digitization had already begun to gain momentum ten years ago, many people were still uncertain about the practicality and security of cloud storage. People were unsure about how cloud storage worked in practice, whether it was safe enough and the risks of entrusting international companies with sensitive information. Due to a lack of Swedish alternatives on the market, Henrik Grankvist and Joakim Öhman saw an opportunity to create a superior, locally rooted, and sustainable service that met the needs of their home country. Their vision was to provide a service under Swedish legislation, with exceptional customer support and flexibility, without being tied to lengthy, complicated agreements. Although they had not known each other for long, their shared goal of creating something that positively impacted society, combined with Henrik's business acumen and Joakim's technical expertise, made them a perfect match to bring their vision to life.
Sustainable all the way
Starting a company in the relatively new field of cloud services and Open Source was a bold move, but Henrik Grankvist and Joakim Öhman were determined to make it work. Despite the challenges in convincing investors and mortgaging their own homes to finance the startup, they were confident in their concept, which emphasized not just profit, but also a socially responsible and sustainable approach. This included using renewable energy in data centers, serving socially beneficial customers, and fostering a sustainable work culture. With a focus on top-notch support and service, they launched Elastx in February 2013, and their efforts paid off as they secured two large prestigious companies as their first customers, who remain with them to this day, a full decade later.
Elastic deliveries
The key to Elastx's success is its ability to adapt and provide services that meet the evolving needs of its customers. To achieve this, they strive to be flexible and elastic. As for the "X" in the name, it is a nod to the Open Source community, which often favors unique naming conventions. Elastx represents the combination of being elastic in delivering IT services and being based on Open Source technology.
A cloud provider to count on
As Elastx has grown over the years, it has remained true to its core values. Today, the company employs close to 30 individuals, organized into specialized teams. The founders have adhered to the principle of hiring individuals who are more skilled and competent than themselves, resulting in a highly skilled and knowledgeable workforce. Additionally, the company culture is marked by a sense of camaraderie and a light-hearted approach. Despite the diversity of personalities among the team, they are united by a shared passion for technology and infrastructure.
- What are you most proud of so far? Joakim replied immediately, "The remarkable resilience everyone showed in tough times, the selfless spirit of service since day one, and the robustness of our cloud platform." Henrik concurred, "I'm proud of the trust-based company we've built, where everyone is motivated to create something great. I always say that a company is only as strong as its employees and what they collectively achieve."
Continuously improving and developing its platforms and services, Elastx strives to continue to be one of Sweden's leading cloud service providers.
Let us tell you more!More relevant than ever
The pandemic accelerated the shift towards digitization in various industries, particularly in fintech and e-health. For these types of services, stability and security are of paramount importance, as well as the handling and storage of sensitive data in compliance with current legislation. As more companies rely on business-critical online services, many find it challenging to navigate the complex and rapidly evolving field of IT, with its abundance of jargon and acronyms, new laws and regulations, and increasing concerns about cyber attacks. Outsourcing IT functions as a ready-made service can be a cost-effective and efficient solution, allowing companies to focus on their core business. Elastx offers a range of comprehensive solutions that cater to both large and small businesses.
The Swedish cloud
As Elastx has established its position in the market, the necessity of cloud services based in Sweden is no longer in question. Although the market is still dominated by international companies, Elastx provides a secure, ethical, and sustainable alternative for customers who prioritize keeping their operations and data storage within Sweden's borders. With a commitment to integrity, cutting-edge solutions, and exceptional support, Elastx is the clear choice for businesses looking for a reliable and responsible cloud service provider.