One of the most significant acquisitions for information technology giant, Dimension Data, over the past two years has been DNS, the networking specialist organisation.
Currently positioned as one of the top three network solution providers in South Africa, DNS is expected to contribute substantially to Dimension Data in fiscal 1998/9.
DNS contributes approximately 9% of the group`s local turnover, says Jeremy Ord, Group chairman of Dimension Data Holdings.
Since its establishment in 1989 (DNS celebrates its tenth anniversary this year) the company has achieved a 50% compound growth each year.
Over the past ten years DNS has expanded their client base representing many of South Africa`s blue chip leaders in the financial, commercial and industrial sectors.
"Dimension Data recognised the potential of DNS in 1993 when it acquired a 25% stake in the company," says Ord. "We increased our holding to 100% in 1998 in recognition of DNS`s success in optimising marketplace opportunities and forming productive long-term business partnerships."
This transaction, which further entrenched DNS` position in the South African IT arena, was instrumental in the formation of the DNS Staff Shares Trust - with JSE listed shares - and enabled the organisation to attract and retain the highest level of skills available.
DNS was started in 1989 by Allan Cawood and Charles Osburn.
Cawood currently fills the position of Group MD at Dimension Data subsidiary DiData Networking (DDN). He plays a pivotal role in co-ordinating the strategic positioning of DNS and DDN within the Group.
Osburn, chief technology officer at DNS, evaluates horizon technologies and business development initiatives that are key to the future direction of the company.
DNS is currently headed by MD Denis Hodgson who is strengthening the organisation`s foundation for future growth.
"The cornerstone of our corporate strategy is a commitment to strong, productive, business partnerships with clients, suppliers and associates in a changing market environment," he says.
"The role of technology in business today has changed. From being used to speed up the business process, it is now the enabler of competitive advantage.
"From DNS`s perspective, the emphasis is no longer on products but on the provision of value-added services, such as consulting, design, e-business enablement and end-to-end network management."
Hodgson says DNS is currently moving towards its goal of being among the largest diversified electronic communications organisations in South Africa.
"We have demonstrated the ability to seize the initiative in the business and commercial sectors in which we operate," he adds. "Our on-going success depends on our ability to optimise marketplace trends for e-business solutions while sharpening our focus on the future requirements of our customer base."
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