Vodacom launched its Product Development unit in Cape Town yesterday, representing a further investment of at least R10 million, adding to its total investment in the Western Cape of well over R600 million.
The unit`s focus is on research and development in information technology products which will use the infrastructure backbone of Vodacom`s network.
"The unit is Vodacom`s `think-tank` and we have based it in Cape Town for very specific reasons," said head of Product Development Leon Shirk. "Vodacom has already invested heavily in Cape Town by locating its billing systems, network management centre, SIM-card personalisation centre and customer care division here. Most of Vodacom`s information technology functions are centred here.
"The Western Cape is becoming the silicon valley of South Africa and IT staff are easier to attract and retain here. Another important reason for our Cape Town location is the convenience of intercontinental fibre-optic link-ups located here, crucial for Internet product development," Mr Shirk said.
A number of business opportunities were created with the launch of Vodacom`s Product Development unit:
Vodacom has signed a renewable five-year lease with RMB Properties at the Terraces in Bree Street.
Delta Interiors was awarded the contract to co-ordinate the move and design the furnishings of the unit`s premises at the Terrace, creating a showcase for Vodacom`s technological achievements as well as corporate hospitality facilities.
Psitek is a Cape Town based hardware development company that has been one of the unit`s strategic partners for four years and has been instrumental in developing a number of projects.
Dimension Data was awarded the contract to install video-conferencing facilities, creating a virtual communal workplace for Johannesburg and Cape Town staff.
DNS was responsible for installing cabling at the Terraces.
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