Dimension Data`s Network Solutions and Converged Communications have been awarded Nortel Networks Gold Solutions Partner status for data and voice respectively - acknowledgement of Dimension Data`s commitment to and expertise in providing solutions based on Nortel Networks` offerings to its enterprise customers.
According to Shaun Liebenberg, executive director Business Solutions at Dimension Data, earning this status in the voice and data arena represents a significant milestone for the company.
"Gold Partner status fits in very well with Dimension Data`s core speciality in delivering integrated, superior application networked solutions," says Liebenberg. "We believe that, coupled with our local expertise, Nortel`s innovative range of solutions are positioned to make next generation converged networks a reality for our customers," he says.
Dimension Data has to meet stringent criteria from Nortel including accreditation on business, training and infrastructural certification, and service level capability - and move significant volumes of Nortel - even in the prevailing tough economic climate - in order to qualify for Gold Partner Status.
In addition, Dimension Data has to ensure that it has the necessary sales and technical skills in place - not an easy feat considering it takes about two years of training and self-study to reach this stage.
Another criterion is for Dimension Data to have an effective supporting infrastructure, such as a laboratory where engineers are able to work, as well as a demonstration area where engineers are able to simulate Nortel products in the working environment for customers.
"We anticipate a deepening of our relationship as we address the networking and telephony challenges faced by businesses in SA together," says Anton Buys Du Plessis, Nortel Networks Channel manager.
Furthermore, qualifying for Gold Solutions Partner status required Dimension Data to complete additional training on solutions design, pre-sales and sales, and deliver recognised service level capabilities.
Dimension Data`s skills, competencies and resources indicate the Application Network organisation`s holistic ability to support customers, manage integrated network solutions, and satisfy evolving demands - all vital for being awarded the Gold status for solutions," says Tony Wilson, Nortel Networks Enterprise Director.
"Organisations are looking for comprehensive solutions to their business needs; and, with its knowledge and the Nortel solution offering, Dimension Data is ideally positioned to address these requirements," he concludes.
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Dimension Data Holdings plc (LSE: DDT) is a leading global technology company that provides solutions and services which enable businesses to connect devices, information, applications, processes, people and organisations efficiently and reliably.
To achieve this, the group delivers solutions using its proprietary `Application Network` architectural framework and its expertise in networking, application integration and operational services. By optimising and managing the performance of `converging` software and hardware infrastructures, these solutions enable businesses to take advantage of rapidly evolving standards and new developments in IT, such as Web services.
Dimension Data, founded in 1983, had revenues of $2.1 billion in 2002 and operates in 30+ countries with over 9 000 employees.
Nortel Networks
Nortel Networks is an industry leader and innovator focused on transforming how the world communicates and exchanges information. The company is supplying its service provider and enterprise customers with communications technology and infrastructure to enable value-added IP data, voice and multimedia services spanning wireless networks, wireline networks, enterprise networks and optical networks. As a global company, Nortel Networks does business in more than 150 countries. More information about Nortel Networks can be found on the Web at www.nortelnetworks.com.
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