AST Networks has successfully installed a Philips` DECT solution on behalf of AST Distribution Technology Solutions (DTS) for its client Remedial Hardware Maintenance (RHM).
A total of 50 DECT handsets and three Ergoline digital phones with the SOPHO iS 3030 PBX form the basis of the technology. The SOPHO Series is a modular iSPBX system designed for any type and size of business. The system software accommodates a set of standard features that met RHM`s requirements and provides a uniform platform for additional applications and open interface to third-party equipment.
Justin Jacobs, new business development of customer contact centres AST Networks, says it is gratifying that the AST Group has chosen technology from within the group in the face of stiff competition from major players in the field.
"DECT was an obvious solution given the dynamic business environment of Remedial Hardware Maintenance. The company is the `breakfix` division of the AST Group responsible for the maintenance of computers and IT technology for blue-chip clients. For this reason the company operates extensive warehouses stocked with thousands of parts and needs to be highly mobile to meet clients` needs."
Johan Vorster, Technology Architect AST Distributed Technology Services, said the DECT solution resulted in substantial savings of cellphone costs, mainly through the least cost routing solution (LCR) provided by AST Networks` technology partner, Orion.
"Not only are there savings from DECT and LCR, but the entire environment at RHM is unique in that it is totally wireless with 802.11 wireless access points throughout the building. AST-DTS installed the INTEL Wireless solution for flexibility and a total mobile strategy was implemented. This means that one can move around with a laptop, DECT telephone or even barcode scanners, and all these technologies will be online at any given time wherever one may be in the building," said Vorster.
As a result of the advanced environment, an equally state-of-the-art voice data solution was required. "Despite having looked at technology from other competitor organisations, we chose the Philips` system on merit as it best met our needs with the Stella Nova billing system, the least cost routing (LCR) through Orion cellular routes and, of course, an after-sales service that has set the industry standard. To add to this, their pricing was extremely competitive," said Vorster.
"An important element was the compatibility of the Philips equipment with the wireless network where all the equipment is WiFi certified. We`re using 128-bit encryption rendering it completely safe from outside attack," explained Vorster.
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In just three years the AST Group has established itself as one of the leading information and communication technology companies on the JSE Securities Exchange. Its consistent creation of value for shareholders, clients and employees has resulted in a steady increase in monthly revenue to the R100 million plus mark.
AST is now the fourth largest South African IT company by market capitalisation, and is one of the top three in terms of physical infrastructure (mainframes, servers, desktops and networks under management) and geographical footprint with over 62 physical locations. Counting almost 90% of the top 100 JSE-listed companies among its clients, the AST Group services mostly large corporate and government clients, but is increasingly offering services to rapidly evolving small and medium enterprises.
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