AST Networks, a business unit of the AST Group, has received a substantial order from Lichtenburg-based agricultural company, NWK Limited, for the upgrading of the company`s existing PABX to the state of the art Philips` SOPHO @vance utilising the Call@Net call control software.
NWK has been a Philips user since 1981 and according to IT manager, Johan Smith, his company needed to upgrade to the latest digital technology. "Our existing package was no longer adequate and, importantly, because of AST`s evergreen policy, we were able to upgrade without replacing the basic hardware, thereby making substantial savings while, at the same time, acquiring the latest available technology."
The SOPHO Call@Net provides a uniform platform for the support of additional applications. Combined with other SOPHO @vance 6000 components, SOPHO Call@Net paves the way for new applications which combine the merits of the Internet Protocol (IP) with a broad range of traditional voice features. The software is designed for any type and size of business and it has been developed in a modern programming language and incorporates a standard embedded operating system.
Applications which are supported by SOPHO Call@Net are designed according to specific user needs and include private and multi-vendor working, Computer Telephony Integration (CTI), announcement services, voice processing, Automatic Call Distribution (ACD), contact centres, DECT cordless communication, system and network management, call logging, reachability and IP telephony. When installed, these applications are fully integrated with the SOPHO Call@Net software.
The system provides NWK with a solution for outdoor extensions to three branch offices of the company in Lichtenburg. Furthermore the newly installed SuperVisor 60E operator consoles allows them access to their centrally stored database.
According to Smith, the new digital system enables a total ISDN solution providing better quality and a greater overall cost efficiency. "We have enjoyed a particularly successful relationship with AST and have received excellent service from them," said Smith.
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The AST Group is one of SA`s largest information and communication technology services companies independent of any vendor. It is the fourth largest company overall, by market capitalisation, listed in the technology sector of the JSE Securities Exchange.
The AST Group, operating from more than 60 sites, services large corporate and government clients throughout SA and has expanded to other Southern African states, Australia and the UK. Employing more than 3 500 ICT professionals, exploiting best-of-breed technology and applying international best practices, the AST Group provides services across the entire plan-build-run-leverage value creating cycle.
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