Choice Technologies, an IT systems and integration company, has successfully implemented a 3Com NBX system at the Department of Minerals and Energy`s Pretoria head office.
The new telephony system, based on the industry-standard Internet Protocol (IP), delivers robust call-processing over the department`s local and wide area networks (LAN and WAN) to more than 650 employees.
As part of this project, the department implemented high-end 3Com routers which offer security and control features that ensure effective and efficient network operation.
"All our communication now runs from a single terminal, which makes it more manageable and ensures that repair and maintenance costs are kept to a minimum," says Mandu Nompunga, the chief information officer (CIO) at the Department of Minerals and Energy.
"The system`s intelligent processor can differentiate between fixed-line and cellphone calls. It can automatically redirect the call to use the most cost-effective routing path. This contributes significantly to lowering the total cost of ownership. With this upgrade we aim to standardise all systems and manage our communication infrastructure across national offices from one point."
The 3Com NBX IP telephony system allows the department to control costs associated with legacy systems, and make changes and additions to the system from a central point without relying on a third-party. Built-in `auto attendants`, voicemail and sophisticated call controls create further cost savings while improving service and staff productivity.
The system also provides hunt/call groups, call detail reporting and enhanced conference call facilities. It enables seamless multi-site intra-company dialling. Users can move to new desks without having to change cabling or extension numbers. And they can configure their phones via a Web interface to ensure voice messages are sent directly to either an inbox or another telephone number.
"The telephony system delivers superior performance and lower total cost of ownership. Now Minerals and Energy is saving further costs by not having to pay for two separate networks for data and voice," adds Mark Morey, sales executive at Choice Technologies.
Nompunga explains that citizens, research groups and other government departments will now benefit from improved communication services from the Department of Minerals and Energy. "With widespread adoption of IP telephony throughout the government, we are looking forward to the time when a call answered in Springbok can be transferred to Pretoria without any additional costs involved," he adds.
Share
Choice Technologies is a leading new generation IT systems and integration company, that provides infrastructure connectivity, application integration, managed services as well as maintenance support. Through its partnership approach with employees, suppliers and subcontractors, Choice Technologies aims to provide a complete product offering as well as services to its customer base in the public and private sector. As a majority black-owned equity company, Choice Technologies is dedicated to employee empowerment and liberating potential through skills upliftment. As a demonstration of its commitment to job creation and economic growth, Choice Technologies is accredited as a "Proudly South African" company.
Editorial contacts