In its endeavour to provide its clients with a world-class service, AST Distributed Technology Services (DTS), a business unit of the AST Group, has launched DTS Remedial Hardware Maintenance and Logistics (RHM). Through RHM, DTS has positioned the AST Group strategically to participate in the South African hardware break-fix market, which is estimated to be worth R3 billion per annum.
DTS RHM is the support arm and the backbone of the extensive Field Services Operation within AST DTS. The DTS RHM division will provide maintenance on out-of-warranty PCs and peripheral devices, including the supply of spare parts to its clients. RHM is an initiative enabling AST DTS to provide end-to-end solutions for the Distributed Systems Lifecycle.
"The AST Group is involved in a number of long-term contracts with clients such as Absa, Iscor, DoJ, Kumba Resources, CSC and Capitec Bank, in which a break-fix capability forms part of the requirements," explains Willie Stegmann, MD of AST DTS. "Through RHM, DTS is able to fulfil this requirement.
"DTS RHM has designed a Hub and Spoke process, which includes centralised purchasing with de-centralised delivery," adds Stegmann. "It was not only crucial to identify, test and purchase the correct systems to take care of the entire business, from monitoring and management of stock to the financial aspects, but, as people are key components of the success of the operation, selecting the right people for the job was vital."
DTS RHM has established technical workbench operations to do component level repairs throughout the major centres. This was identified as a critical part of the operation, to ensure quick and effective repairs to meet service level agreements. DTS RHM partners include Computer Hardware Specialists, which has more than 15 years experience, and the surface-mount technology and competence to support the RHM workbench operation in this regard.
With its logistical partner, DHL, DTS RHM is able to deliver the required parts to any destination throughout SA, seven days a week, 24 hours a day. This service minimises downtime for clients and decreases the total cost of ownership (TCO). Where contracted, loan units are offered to clients, to ensure minimum disruption to their business.
The RHM infrastructure is currently responsible for the support of AST DTS`s current installed base of more than 210 000 devices, which was previously supported by various subcontractors.
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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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