South African business users can now quickly and easily deploy `New World` converged communications solutions following a landmark OEM agreement between network giant Cisco, and telecommunications convergence pioneer Interactive Intelligence.
According to Paolo Masselli, sales and marketing director at Dimension Data Interactive Intelligence, local businesses will be able to gradually implement a full suite of IP and software-based communications solutions such as unified messaging and voice data collaboration over their Cisco networks as required. Dimension Data represents both Cisco and Interactive Intelligence in SA.
In terms of the agreement, Cisco`s Integrated Communications System (ICS) 7750 IP telephony solution which combines data, voice, and video networking capabilities in one platform will be marketed with Interactive Intelligence software, which offers solutions for contact centres, e-businesses, enterprises and service providers.
"All a business has to do is install an ICS 7750 system, select the appropriate Interactive Intelligence software and they will have everything they need for an integrated communications solution," says Masselli.
"The flexibility of this ICS package helps ensure IT managers can gradually expand their use of New World services as the need arises - when their customers and users are ready."
This converged solution could include a router, voice over IP-based telephone system, unified messaging and a wide variety of advanced interaction management applications.
"We`re excited about Interactive Intelligence`s applications being sold with Cisco`s ICS 7750 platform. It is seen as an important addition to Cisco`s growing industry-leadership for IP Telephony solutions," he says.
The ICS 7750 is a complete integrated communications system that enables enterprise branch office (EBO) and mid-market companies to rapidly deploy New World applications such as personal productivity, unified messaging, data/voice collaboration and single site contact centre solutions.
The Interactive Intelligence product line is based on a unified, open platform known as the Interaction Center Platform. Dimension Data has marketed this is a revolutionary alternative to traditional computer telephony integration solutions for two years. It consolidates communication devices, thus reducing start-up and maintenance costs, simplifying administration and increasing ease of customisation.
"It`s an ideal technology match. Cisco`s leadership in IP Telephony, access solutions and IP internetworking systems, coupled with Interactive Intelligence`s innovative software applications, will provide a comprehensive solution, long awaited by SA businesses eager to benefit from the full strategic potential of the Internet," says Masselli.
In addition to the OEM agreement, Cisco has taken an equity stake of approximately $15-million in Interactive Intelligence.
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Dimension Data Holdings
Dimension Data Holdings plc is a leading global network services and i-Commerce solutions provider, focused on enabling enterprises, telecommunications service providers and new economy companies to communicate and transact effectively in an e-enabled environment.
Listed on the London Stock Exchange, Dimension Data is ranked in FTSE 100 and operates in over 30 countries on six continents. The Group has achieved a two-year compound annual growth rate in US dollars of 57% in revenue and 36% in basic earnings per share over the past two years. For more information, please go to www.didata.com.