Data Pro Business Online, the networking integrator and ISP (Internet Service Provider) within the JSE-listed Control Instruments stable, has announced that its newly-launched web development division is "now contributing to the company`s overall bottomline".
According to Douglas Reed, MD at Data Pro Business Online, although the company`s main focus remains on the ISP market, the web development division was launched as a "value add to customers". "One of the problems facing companies who want to create an e-commerce enabled web-site is that web design companies are charging heavy fees - anything from R200 000 to R400 000. This is putting it out of the grasp of many SMMEs (small medium and micro enterprises) - a market sector we concentrate on."
He said the web development division had contributed 30% to the company`s bottomline during the last six months.
Despite these often exorbitant prices, companies are still waiting for their web-sites to be "switched on" after more than a year.
Reed said the company`s web development team draws from the best designers and web technicians, but charges a "fraction" of these rates.
"It is not our main focus and we see it as a value add to our clients. It is also proving to be a good strategic weapon for us as we are getting our feet through the front doors of new clients thanks to this cost-effective service offering. While it is only making a small contribution to our bottomline, it is certainly bringing in clients that we may not have landed. Its contribution is expected to become meaningful due to this cross-pollination," said Reed. Recent clients include the likes of Liberty Life Unit Trusts, Investec, MB Technology, Tarsus, www.Thegiftshop.co.za, and www.mitaka.co.za.
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