Microsoft introduces on-demand

Microsoft has introduced a new on-demand application, Automated Service Agents (ASA), for customer service organisations, reports TMCnet.

Described by Microsoft as the next generation of Web-based self-help, ASA helps companies enhance their customer service capabilities without having to hire more staff.

ASA is essentially an automated instant messaging client that customers interact with to get answers about specific questions.

Kiwibank will test self-service kiosks in NZ Post shops in an effort to cut queues, states Stuff.

The kiosks will let people pay bills such as Contact Energy and Telecom bills, and renew vehicle registrations using eftpos. Customers can also use them to top up prepaid mobile phones.

NZ Post payment services manager Terese Tunnicliffe says the kiosks will be a first for New Zealand.

NCR is looking to apply its "self-service" technology from automated teller machines (ATMs) in banks to other industries like healthcare and tourism, says Inquirer.

NCR officials announced plans to bring some of the company's self-service solutions, including automated kiosks, to markets in Southeast Asia.

"We are at an inflection point," said Brian Bailey, NCR VP for financial industry marketing, hyping on self-service technology during a briefing here releasing the company's new ATMs.