Unison distributes Kathea solid-state devices

In answer to the market`s needs, Unison distributes Kathea Communications products.

While Unison Communications` Pty (Ltd) current end-user client base boasts an impressive range of mid-to-high level companies, the market has been calling for a product that caters to the lower end.

"The cost of ownership, with regards to PCs, operating systems and software, can be prohibitive for the smaller business," says Craig Young, MD of Unison. "Feedback from our resellers indicated a strong demand for voicemail systems in the lower end of the market. Unison is a trusted brand, so it made sense to form an alliance with a reputable and established partner to provide these much-needed products."

As part of a larger array of products, Kathea provides solid-state voicemail systems, auto attendants and music-on-hold products. The company imports ITS products from Israel and was looking to distribute further into the South African market. After Unison Communications had evaluated available products, it became clear that Kathea`s range excelled, being technically sound and easy to install.

"In the solid-state market, there have been ongoing concerns with stability, as well as installation and maintenance issues," says Young. "We didn`t want to take on problems - the purpose is to provide strong effective solutions."

Kathea came out tops in the evaluation process and, consequently, Unison is distributing `Vocal` (Voicemail and Auto Attendant system), `VME Pro` (Voice Mail Solution with a unified messaging option), as well as `Ear`, Kathea`s Automated Attendant system that can answer four incoming calls simultaneously.

"From our perspective," says Greg Anderson, Sales Director at Kathea, "the Unison distribution model of value-added resellers (VAR) holds much appeal. Added to this, Unison also has a focused sales force within this specialised area. This adds substantial add-value knowledge, as well as a distribution chain, giving us the opportunity to grow within a desired market."

Unison is in the process of introducing the Kathea products to its VARs. "The Unison channel model adds a great deal of value," explains Young. "Unison is able to back up its resellers on all levels - from installation to maintenance. We also provide ongoing reseller-specific training to ensure resellers have the technical ability to handle tasks.

"Already the market has responded favourably with the initial introduction of Kathea products," says Young. "Unison is now able to offer a far more comprehensive basket of products, catering to large and small businesses. This follows our strategic objective of increasing distribution and focusing on our channel."