AST MSI, a division of the AST Group, has successfully implemented Level 1 and 2 support and maintenance for Gold Leaf Tobacco Corporation.
The need for industries to become more efficient and better prepared for unwanted stoppages and control system breakdowns led to Gold Leaf Tobacco to implement Level 1 and 2 support and maintenance, which includes PLC and SCADA. The service proposal implements added benefits in terms of 24-hour hot stand-by call desk, and increased production time, plus scheduled site preventative maintenance visits.
"If a machine breaks down in the tobacco industry, bottom lines and profits are seriously affected, which has a direct influence on their business," explains John Stobbs from Gold Leaf Tobacco Corporation (Pty) Ltd. "With the implementation of PLC and SCADA support and maintenance, our downtime has been reduced."
The service and support proposal also included a 24-hour support and a full spares agreement. "We strive to provide a reliable and effective backup service and training for our industries control systems, thus improving the operating efficiencies of these vast and fast growing organisations," adds Rocha. "The proposals guarantee 24-hour availability of critical spares and speedy turnaround times."
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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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