AST prepares for communication technology convergence

The JSE-listed AST Group has launched a new network solution and services business unit and a network strategy framework to consolidate various network offerings currently available in the AST Group. The new business unit, AST Networks, will focus on the rapidly growing market for seamless and converged data networking.

"AST has established itself as a leader in outsourced technology solutions," Pieter Bouwer, Executive Director of the AST Group. "We have developed capabilities and a track record in providing LAN, WAN and Value Added Network Services to a diverse client base across South Africa, as well as telephony solution design, implementation and support services." "It was a natural progression for us to consolidate these capabilities, together with world-class network architecture and design skills and the imminent commissioning of AST`s national command centre, we can now offer our clients a comprehensive range of Network Solutions and Services," adds Bouwer.

Under the leadership of Dr. Brian Armstrong, AST Networks will continue to build business and technology alliances, which allow AST to comprehensively address diverse network needs. Dr. Brian Armstrong was previously Director of the CSIR`s Information and Communication Technology division.

"The Group`s underpinning core competence of outsourcing and distributed technology support, and our in depth understanding of certain vertical market sectors and client needs, enable us to add value to our clients through network solutions & services," explains Dr Brian Armstrong, MD of AST Networks. "These services provide our clients with a competitive advantage, while reducing their total cost of ownership."

From conceptualisation, through design, implementation, to operational services and support, AST Networks provide Network optimisation, rationalisation and pro-active scaling of capacity. AST offers end-to-end policy-based network and service level management, under a single service level agreement if desired.

"This offers single-point accountability to the client, who stays in command, with full visibility of technical and service level status of network and related systems and the ability to drill down to the level of detail required. Risk is visible, managed and reduced," adds Armstrong.

"Our independence from any particular product vendor enables us to deploy the right technology for the job, and leverage client`s existing asset bases," concludes Armstrong. "AST`s extensive presence throughout South Africa enables us to provide technical support, where it is needed, when it is needed, and how it is needed. Our mix of skills and partnerships enables us to accelerate implementation of converged solutions and applications, but in an evolutionary way which minimises risk and builds on rather than replaces existing technology assets."