Johannesburg 18 August 2010 - Neotel, South Africa’s first converged communications network operator ..

Johannesburg 18 August 2010 - Neotel, South Africa’s first converged communications network operator has brought to market the industry’s most affordable and flexible communications management system.

Known as NeoIntellect, the system is web-based and hosted on Neotel’s state of the art data centre at the company’s Midrand campus, It is pre-integrated with multiple telephony service providers to enable organisations to reduce and more effectively manage their communications spend by tracking communications usage across the board.

Fine-grained reporting tools provide organisations with detailed analysis of their communication resources, itemised billing for fixed lines and mobile phones, reporting on individual and organisational utilisation of communication resources, and asset management per user.

NeoIntellect absorbs information from the organisations’ communication systems and then provides reports and recommendations based on the organisations’ strategic requirements. It is able to absorb information about fixed line services, mobile services, data services, value add services and physical assets.

“We designed NeoIntellect to be the most affordable and the most flexible and scalable communications management system on the market – because we believe that one of our fundamental responsibilities is to support South African businesses in being competitive,” says Wandile Zote, Neotel Executive Head for Corporate Communication.

“Communications management is core to the operations of most enterprise level organisations because communication capability is what empowers the exchange of information and, in terms of availability of communications access, determines to a very large extent the efficiency and productivity of an organisation.

“It’s crucial, therefore, that organisations have the means to track communications usage in their organisations, from user to infrastructure and across all communication types and devices. Even more importantly, they need to know what to do with that information in order to rectify unwanted situations and squeeze ever more value out of their communications systems and strategies.

“But the cost of a system that not only tracks usage but makes recommendations regarding remediation should not be greater than any savings the system enables. And the system should be so flexible and scalable that any organisation can use it, regardless of which infrastructure and services it is already using and whatever additions and changes it will need to make in future. That’s what we’ve designed NeoIntellect to deliver,” he adds.

NeoIntellect is flexible both in terms of pricing models, underlying infrastructure, and implementation as well as the ways in which organisations can put it to use.

The offering has been tailored to the differing needs of organisations, enabling a range of capabilities from management of pure fixed line installations all the way through to mobile, 3G, and Internet usage and complex issues such as infrastructure management.

Organisations are also able to implement the tiered offerings in three different ways: manually, on the basis of integration with other systems, such as accounting, that is approved case by case by management, and on the basis of integration that is fully automated.

Information is pushed to non-management users in the form of emailed reports. Managerial users are also supplied with standard, scheduled reports but are able, in addition, to log in and mine the underlying data for supplementary information. NeoIntellect automatically produces Exco-level reports on usage and remediation recommendations.

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About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts: 

Neotel, South Africa’s first converged telecommunications operator, is giving consumers the power to ..

Neotel, South Africa’s first converged telecommunications operator, is giving consumers the power to choose with the launch of a pre-paid service that allows you to pay for services according to your monthly budget.  The converged service offers voice, SMS and basic Internet connectivity, all-in-one.

“For many South Africans, the ability to choose pre-paid as a payment method is not just a lifestyle option - it’s an economic necessity,” says Wandile Zote Executive Head of Corporate Communication at Neotel.

Neotel’s new prepaid service will be delivered over Neotel’s fixed wireless service, NeoConnect Lite Pre-paid. Comparable to Neotel’s post-paid services; connectivity will be instant with no waiting for installation.

Top up vouchers will be available for purchase through the same sales points, as well as regional Sasol forecourts in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Pietermaritzburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. Vouchers are currently available only in R100 values, and will be deducted against voice, SMS and basic Internet usage.

The prevailing tariff rates are as follows:

To apply for a pre-paid service visit a Neotel store, call 0800 333 636 or visit a channel partner.  For RICA purposes a green bar-coded ID and proof of residence will be required.

ENDS

For more information contact:

Chuma Siswana                               Nonhlanhla  Kumalo                                                     

+27 11 585 0265                            + 27 11 585 1504

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’ global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Neotel, South Africa’s first converged communications network operator is hosting the Eastern Africa ..

Neotel, South Africa’s first converged communications network operator is hosting the Eastern African Submarine Cable System (EASSy) Management Committee in Johannesburg. This meeting represents an important milestone for EASSy, which was recently completed, and will be brought into commercial service during August 2010.

EASSy is a 1.3 Tbps (terabits per second) submarine optical fibre cable system that will link Mtunzini in Northern kwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, to East Africa, and onwards to the Middle East, landing in South Africa, Mozambique, Madagascar, Comores, Tanzania, Kenya, Somalia, Djibouti and Sudan.

It is a joint project of more than twenty telecoms operators from across the continent and beyond, including Neotel, Telkom, Vodacom, MTN, Botswana Telecoms Corporation, Zamtel Zambia, Mauritius Telecom, Comoros Telecom, Telecom Malagasy, TTCL Tanzania, Sudatel Sudan, Dalkom Somalia, France Telecom, British Telecom, and WIOCC, itself a consortium including U-COM Burundi, Onatel Burundi, Djibouti Telecom, Telkom Kenya Orange, Lesotho Telecoms Authority, Libya PTITC, TDM Mozambique, Gilat Satcom Nigeria, Government of Seychelles, Zanzibar Telecom, and TelOne Zimbabwe, with various international debt funding institutions. 

The members of the EASSy consortium have been working tirelessly for several years to bring this important project to fruition. The bringing into service of this new cable system represents a significant step for the countries and people of Southern and East Africa, bringing additional (and in some cases, the first) high bandwidth Internet connectivity to the countries of the region.

Various committees of the consortium have been working on every aspect of the cable system to meet the target date. Neotel recently hosted the EASSy Assignment Routing & Restoration Sub-committee, which finalised, amongst others, the restoration plan of EASSy cable in the event of unforeseen breakages, to ensure high availability of services. Other issues finalised included capacity activation and de-activation, the readiness of the backhaul routes, and physical testing of compatibility of cables in different countries, demonstrating the readiness of the EASSy cable to go live.

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For more information contact:

Chuma Siswana                                                Nonhlanhla  Kumalo                                                     

+27 11 585 0265                                             + 27 11 585 1504

About Neotel

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators ,service providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’ global Tier 3 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Following significant market demand for Neotel’s hosting services, Neotel has increased its portfoli ..

Following significant market demand for Neotel’s hosting services, Neotel has increased its portfolio of Data Centre facilities with the launch of a second Tier 3 Data Centre in Cape Town. Neotel’s first state-of-art Data Centre was launched in June 2009 at the Neotel premises in Midrand, Johannesburg.

The new data centre builds on Neotel’s strength in providing outsourced hosting services, managed services and hosted applications that have already generated interest from several large enterprises.

Neotel data centres are an example of a fresh new approach in the South African market. They are modular in design, with high energy efficient technologies allowing the highest data centre cooling density. Improved cooling techniques will further limit excess power utilisation. By hosting at these centres, customers will not only reduce their risk of hikes in operational costs due to potential price increases for energy but more importantly reduce their carbon footprints.

“We have already reached 100% utilisation of the first phase of our Data Centre in Midrand while the second expansion phase is already 50% subscribed. With the opening of a second Data Centre in Cape Town, businesses in Cape Town now have the opportunity to make use of our facilities while unlocking the opportunity for businesses to host both their production and business continuity sites”, says Wandile Zote Executive Head of Communication at Neotel.

“Our clients recognise Neotel’s professionalism and data centre expertise which focuses strongly on proactive management and maintenance to ensure unmatched uptime and reliability. The Data Centre is home to a number of managed hosting and virtual hosting services, including Managed Storage and Backup, Virtual Firewall and Server Virtualisation services. Through these services we manage the hosting of a client’s business platforms and application servers whilst leveraging off Neotel’s significant economies of scale. Our data centres provide flexibility of choosing from hosting floorspace to racks to platforms. We meet clients half way, extending competitive pricing to ensure the service offered is market related and gives fair value – particularly in today’s tough times,” he adds.

Neotel is committed to introducing more services to the market to add even further value to our customers. This augments the plans for organisations that look at optimizing their efficiencies and reducing the costs of keeping up with technology modernization.

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For more information contact:

Chuma Siswana                                                Nonhlanhla  Kumalo                                                     

+27 11 585 0265                                             + 27 11 585 1504

Notes to Editors

About the Neotel Data Centres and Hosting

The Neotel internet data centre (IDC) is a carrier neutral facility.

• Neotel facilitates any interconnection and 3rd party operators enter the site through shared conduits via diverse building entries.
• Provided the operator has representation in the “Meet me Room” facility, a customer can contract directly with the 3rd party operator for last mile circuits.

All Neotel data centres have an enviable record of 100% network and power uptime.

• The incoming electrical supply to the site is available through multiple feeds from separate substations on separate council electricity grids.
• Standby power generation can operate for 140hrs without refuelling.

The data centres are manned 24/7 throughout the year.

• Support staff is available 24/7
• Client representative can use the facility of work area at data centres on demand
• Secured by 24/7 physical security, video surveillance, restricted perimeter access and internal biometric access.

Facility Size:                                                           Total size 4500sqm

                                                                                Phase1: 1000sqm: hosting space (1000sqm)

                                                                                Phase2: 3000sqm: hosting space (additional 1000sqm)   

Building Management Systems                Constant monitoring of Power, Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS), Cooling - Chiller plant, Generators, Security, Fire and CCTV (access doors, cooling rooms)

Monitoring of alarms:                                       24x7 x365 by Tech team               

Access Control:                                                 Internal: 3 tiers

1)   Perimeter,

2)   Finger biometrics and

3)   Card reader. Customers identified via ID and monitored 24/7 through CCTV, External secure fencing, full yard CCTV recording and patrol guards

About Neotel

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators ,service providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’ global Tier 3 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Neotel, South Africa’s first converged telecommunications network operator has appointed Blue Label ..

Neotel, South Africa’s first converged telecommunications network operator has appointed Blue Label Telecoms as its E-Voucher vendor partner.  Blue Label Telecoms is the market leader in the distribution of prepaid products and services to unbanked and under-banked consumers in emerging and developing economies across the globe.

“Neotel will soon be launching prepaid services to the market and we required a partner that had a wide operational footprint and with Blue Label Telecoms we have gained that reach into their extensive distribution network, including large chain stores, independent retailers and petroleum forecourts.  They are a leading company in voucher services and have a proven, viable solution which meets our needs. In South Africa, Blue Label Telecoms has over 130 000 points of presence” says Mr. Ajay Pandey MD & CEO at Neotel.

“More so, as our customer base increases we want to ensure that they have easy access to our products and services on a national basis and with this new partnership we are convinced that there will be a strong uptake from the customers using our services,” he concludes.

Blue Label joint CEO Brett Levy said, “More than 80 percent of the South African population purchase airtime on a prepaid basis.  Blue Label Telecoms has over ten years experience in this growing space and have built long-term partnerships with our distribution network to ensure that prepaid products and services are conveniently available for our client’s customers.  We are excited to be working with Neotel to extend their reach into the market”.

To date, Neotel has strategic partnerships in place with Altech Autopage Cellular, Postnet South Africa, Samsung and Nashua. Neotel has retail stores operating in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town.

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

About Blue Label Telecoms Limited:

Blue Label Telecoms is a leading distributor of prepaid products and services to the unbanked and underbanked population of emerging and developing countries worldwide.  Its principal prepaid products offerings currently include airtime, electricity and bus ticketing.  Other solutions include location-based services, cell phone content and mobile applications.

The group’s strategy is to extend its global footprint of touch points, both organically and acquisitively, and to fulfill the significant demand for the delivery of multiple prepaid products and services through a single distribution base via various delivery mechanisms.

For more information, visit www.bluelabeltelecoms.co.za

Media Contacts: 

Chuma Siswana                                                           Ashleigh Fenwick

Neotel                                                                             Blue Label Telecoms

+27 11 585 0265                                                            +27 11 523 3030

+27 71 853 4405                                                            +27 83 309 7935

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za                                     ashleighf@blts.co.za

Neotel has launched NeoBroadband Wimax, an affordable and uncapped internet access solution delivere ..

Neotel has launched NeoBroadband Wimax, an affordable and uncapped internet access solution delivered over Neotel’s established Wimax ‘wireless’ infrastructure. The company has an extensive network of Wimax base stations, deployed in the four main metro areas in South Africa, providing the coverage and reliability you need.

The service gives your business cost effective, convenient and fast internet connection. As the company provides the network and the service, you are assured of a hassle free solution and peace of mind with Neotel as your single point of contact for Broadband requirements.

NeoBrand Wimax is a flexible solution that can be upgraded or downgraded depending on your changing business requirements, as it allows businesses to purchase bandwidth in 1Mbps, 2Mbps, 5Mbps and 8Mbps speeds. 

The company’s rapid 5 day turnaround time for installation means you can be up and running quickly as there are no fixed lines.  Should you need to relocate premises, your connection goes with you and within a short time (this is coverage dependent) deployment is completed at your new offices.

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For more information please contact

Chuma Siswana

Media Relations Specialist: Corporate Communication

Neotel (Pty) Ltd

Direct:    +27 (0)11 585 0265

Mobile:   +27 (0)71 853 4405

Email:      chuma.siswana@neotel.co.za

Website:  www.neotel.co.za

And

Nonhlanhla Kumalo

Senior: Corporate Communication

Neotel (Pty) Ltd

Direct:    +27 (0)11 585 1574

Mobile:   +27 (0)71 875 9370

Email:      nonhlanhla.kumalo@neotel.co.za

Website:  www.neotel.co.za

Notes to Editors

Product Specifications

NeoBroadband Wimax delivers internet access over Neotel’s Wimax infrastructure.  The network is configured to allow businesses to purchase asymmetrical bandwidth in 1Mbps, 2Mbps, 5Mbps and 8Mbps speeds.

The internet bandwidth is burstable for all internet traffic, both local and international, up to purchased wireless line speed, depending on base station congestion. 

The NeoBroadband Wimax service offering

The following NeoBroadband Wimax services are available:

Features and Benefits

Availability

NeoBroadband Wimax is available and Neotel network dependable in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town and Durban. 

DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this product and services release is for promotional purposes only and does not constitute an offer.  While Neotel makes every effort to ensure that subscriptions, prices, and descriptions are correct at time of print, Neotel cannot be held liable for any cost, loss and/or damage that may arise as a result of misprints, incorrect information and/or any changes.  July 2010.

Neotel has appointed Brunswick South Africa, as its Public Relations agency effective 01 June 2010. ..

Neotel has appointed Brunswick South Africa, as its Public Relations agency effective 01 June 2010.

Brunswick joins Neotel at a crucial point in its business growth when a strong foundation has been laid in terms of building a solid corporate reputation amongst the company’s key stakeholders. “We are now at a stage in our short history where we need to align our commitment to achieving business growth with the objective of meeting our stakeholders’ expectations and we are confident that Brunswick will assist us to communicate clearly and effectively with our key stakeholders, says Wandile Zote, Executive Head of Corporate Communication at Neotel.  

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

About Brunswick:

Brunswick is a leading international corporate communications advisor that helps businesses and other organizations address critical communications challenges. Started in London in 1987, the business has grown organically into a private partnership in more than 16 cities around the world. Since opening an office in Johannesburg in 1995, Brunswick South Africa has established a market-leading position in the country.

Contact person:

Chuma Siswana                                                                               

Neotel

+27 11 585 0265                                                                                

+27 71 853 4405                                                                

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za  

Neotel, South Africa’s first converged telecommunications network operator has opened the additional ..

Neotel, South Africa’s first converged telecommunications network operator has opened the additional retail stores at Menlyn Retail Park, Pretoria and at Crescent Shopping Centre in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal bringing the total number to four. Last year, Noetel opened its first store at the Cedar Square in Fourways, followed by another at the N1 City Mall in Cape Town.

“For many consumers and small businesses, the concept of converged communications can be confusing,” says Wandile Zote, Neotel’s executive head of Corporate Communication. “So, being able to interact hands on with our various offerings enables them to see, at a practical level, just what the latest, IP-based technologies can do for them and, therefore, what cost and effectiveness advantages they gain by choosing Neotel.”

Neotel’s initial reason for providing retail outlets was to add one more option for customers to interact with the company as well as to bring the brand closer to the customer. 

“We already have an online store, a customer call centre, and a range of channel partners, but we felt that customers needed a Neotel-branded face to face option as well. Also our customer base is increasing in these regions hence it becomes necessary that as the business grows- we become visible and accessible for direct interaction such as paying a Neotel account or in need of a technical advice and support,” he adds.

Neotel stores provide the full spectrum of customer support services – from bill payments, device repairs, and upgrades as well as new purchases and number portability.

For a store’s physical address in your area, please login to www.neotel.co.za.

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About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts: 

Chuma Siswana                                                                   

Neotel                                                                                   

+27 71 853 4405                                                                

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za                                           

With flights to and from Europe grounded during the Volcano eruption in Iceland, the financial impac ..

With flights to and from Europe grounded during the Volcano eruption in Iceland, the financial impact on the airline industry has been estimated to be several billions. Today, SAA announced the loss of at least R84 million.  The inconvenience and loss of time is incalculable.  As discussed through some media outlets, there are various options businesses can conduct their business meetings throughout the world without having to fly to the destination. One of these options is Telepresence.

Telepresence creates the perception that the different parties are sitting in the same room, having a face-to-face meeting, without having to travel to the meeting.

 Neotel is the first company in Africa to offer a Telepresence public facility room in partnership with TATA communications of India.  Neotel has access to TATA communications Telepresence public rooms in Chicago, Sydney, England, Singapore, and Boston. In the near future more public rooms will be available in Brussels, Frankfurt, Munich, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur,  New York, Toronto, San Francisco, Dallas, Washington DC and Neotel customers would have access to all these rooms,.

According to Wandile Zote, executive head of communication at Neotel, Telepresence is one of the best solutions for companies to effectively conduct their imperative business activities such as meeting while saving travel costs. “These rooms provide a cost-effective and innovative way to conduct business by offering advanced audio, high-definition video interactive elements to deliver a virtual meeting experience that feels real,” he says. “By working closely with Tata Communications, Neotel provides its customers with true global connectivity. Our customers can come to our public room at Neovate Park, Midrand and have their meetings with business partners or relatives across the globe,” says Zote.

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About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts:

Chuma Siswana                               Jonathan Mahapa

Neotel                                             Fleishman-Hillard

+27 71 853 4405                             +27 82 507 4042

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za     jonathan.mahapa@fleishman.co.za

Neotel welcomes the publication of the draft call termination regulations that propose further inter ..

Neotel welcomes the publication of the draft call termination regulations that propose further interconnection rate reductions. Neotel has always been of the view that the regulation of interconnection and its associated pricing is best dealt with by the telecommunication industry's independent regulator, and would like to commend ICASA for taking action in this regard. Neotel also welcomes the acknowledgement by the Regulator of the company’s status as a new entrant, to be contrasted with long established operators. Neotel will, however, submit its detailed comments and views on the proposals in the regulations during the public enquiry process.

“We certainly support the principle of cost-based termination, as well as the blending of peak and off-peak termination rates into a single rate, which will result in greater flexibility in retail pricing for operators. However, we will seek clarity on the pricing of competitive long distance carriage of fixed line calls, which has not been dealt with in the regulations, but which is an important aspect of fixed line interconnection, ” says Dr Angus Hay – Executive Head of Technology at Neotel.

“As all the competitive issues within the Telecommunications industry begin to be addressed and regulated properly, we believe that a fair competitive landscape will begin to form and consumers will truly benefit in the end. Neotel’s focus is on making communications more affordable to South Africans – bringing high quality products and services to the market, providing real value at the best rate,” he ends.

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts: 

Chuma Siswana                                                                     Anique Human

Neotel                                                                                Fleishman-Hillard

+27 71 853 4405                                                              011 548 2000

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za                                        anique.human@fleishman.co.za

Neotel, South Africa’s first provider of consumer, business, and wholesale converged (voice, data, a ..

Neotel, South Africa’s first provider of consumer, business, and wholesale converged (voice, data, and Internet) telecommunications services, has endorsed the announcement by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) of the postponement by a month of geographic number portability (GNP) for consumers.
Geographic number portability deals with fixed line numbers, such as 021 and 011, that indicate a subscriber’s geographic location.
GNP allows subscribers to change their fixed line operator without changing their fixed line numbers. Phase one of GNP, which was focused on businesses using blocks of 1 000 or 10 000 numbers and was initiated on 18th May 2009, is now complete.
Scheduled by ICASA to start on 18th April 2010, phase two - aimed at consumers - will now start on 26th April 2010, following a request by Neotel and Telkom for time to allow them time to iron out minor technical problems not anticipated at the time of the original scheduling of the phased roll-out of GNP.
“We were early advocates of GNP because it is one of the most important aspects of deregulation of the South African telecommunications landscape,” says Angus Hay, Executive Head of Technology at Neotel. “It gives subscribers true freedom of choice as to their fixed line service provider. They can keep their fixed line number which, for most people, is an integral part of either their home or business lives, while being able to shop around for better rates and services from carriers. GNP gives control of the telecommunications market to consumers.
“In doing that, it forces service providers to be competitive not simply on price but on the type and range of services they provide. Only the most agile and customer-focused of service providers will survive. Clearly, we’re confident not just of surviving but of prospering in such a competitive market - and, for that reason, we’re looking forward to helping to ensure, in this next month, that there will be no glitches once GNP for consumers is launched.”
Ends
About Neotel:
Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts:
Chuma Siswana                                           Anique Human
Neotel                                                             Fleishman-Hillard
+27 71 853 4405                                         011 548 2000
Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za                 anique.human@fleishman.co.za

Neotel has expanded its retail footprint by opening its second store at the N1 City Mall in Cape Tow ..

Neotel has expanded its retail footprint by opening its second store at the N1 City Mall in Cape Town this week.
The store follows the successful open plan design of the original shop in Cedar Square, north of Johannesburg, and showcases all of Neotel’s services, via live equipment and interactive stations in the store.
“For many consumers and small businesses, the concept of converged communications can be confusing,” says Neotel Executive Head of Corporate Communication, Wandile Zote. “So, being able to touch and feel our various offerings, enables the customer, at an extremely practical level, to view just what the latest technologies can do and what cost and service advantages they gain by choosing Neotel.”
Neotel’s reason for building a retail footprint is to allow customers, at every level, to engage with our brand and our services.  
“Customers are already using our website, customer call centre, and a range of channel partners to order and purchase their Neotel products, but we felt that they needed a Neotel stand alone store option as well,” Zote says. “And while our Johannesburg store has certainly proved that a retail outlet does drive brand awareness, we also understand that customers will use the store for more than just sales.
“In addition, customers are looking for technical advice and support. It’s clear that even in a highly connected age, many still feel more comfortable meeting Neotel staff who are giving them advice or selling them a product,” He concludes.
Neotel will open two more stores in Pretoria and Durban by the end of March, which will provide the full spectrum of customer support, from bill payments, repairs, and upgrades to new purchases for all of Neotel’s offerings.
Ends
About Neotel:
Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’ global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.
Contacts:
Chuma Siswana
Neotel
+27 71 853 4405
Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za

Neotel has reduce its peak tariff rate to R1, 20 per minute and its off peak rate will remain at 96 ..

Neotel has reduce its peak tariff rate to R1, 20 per minute and its off peak rate will remain at 96 cents per minute, effective this morning Monday 01 march 2010,  . Please note that these rates exclude Cell C while pending finalisation of agreement and exclude VAT.
The company says in the current economic climate, where basic everyday costs continue to increase any price reduction would bring relief to consumers. “We’ve always said any reduction in interconnection rates must benefit the consumer and we’re happy that even our competitors are beginning to echo this message”, says Wandile Zote, Executive Head of Corporate Communication.
“From the onset we committed ourselves to change the way South Africans communicate and our main differentiator has always been pricing and technology.  Moreover, all our voice rates are billed per second and there are no hidden costs” he said.
Neotel prides itself in always being aware of the local and global markets in which it operates.  This has determined their pricing strategy and partnerships with key industry players.  Their most recent price reductions are based on overall industry changes, such as access to SEACOM, SAT3/SAFE, WACS, EASSY and regulator policies.
Since inception Neotel is and has always been committed to reducing the cost of communicating for all South Africans and has always had the lowest tariffs in the industry.Neotel remains the clear market leader in carrier voice pricing across all call types, local, national, mobile, international and to all networks. The new rates also mean that for the first time ever, for most calls to mobile phones, it will be cheaper to call from a Neotel phone than from a mobile phone.
Neotel remains on track to support Geographic Number Portability for any user wanting to port from April 2010.
About Neotel:
Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.
Contacts:
Chuma Siswana  
Neotel
+27 71 853 4405
Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za

Tata Communications launched two new public Telepresence rooms in Chicago, USA and Sydney, Australia ..

Tata Communications launched two new public Telepresence rooms in Chicago, USA and Sydney, Australia, last week with the Starwood Hotels & Resorts group. To date Tata Communications has twelve public rooms globally, including its first public Telepresence room in Africa, at Neotel headquarters in Midrand.

These rooms provide a cost-effective and innovative way to conduct business by offering advanced audio, high-definition video interactive elements to deliver a virtual meeting experience that feels real. 

 According to Wandile Zote, executive head of corporate communication at Neotel; “in an economic environment that requires companies to look for ways to reduce costs and carbon footprint, Neotel now have an additional solution for businesses to effectively manage travel and meeting expenditures while realising their objectives.

“By working closely with Tata Communications, Neotel is able to tap into their global network and provide its customers with true global connectivity. Our customers can come to our public room at Neovate Park, Midrand and have their meetings with partners across the globe,” he says.

Other Telepresence rooms are currently operational in the US,  ,England, India,  Philippines and Tata Communications is also   planning to establish Telepresence public rooms in Brussels, Frankfurt, Munich, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur,  New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, San Francisco,Dallas  as well as Washington DC and Neotel customers would have access to those rooms”, he concludes.

Ends

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts: 

Chuma Siswana                                                  

Neotel                                                                        

+27 71 853 4405                                                        

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za                                   

Jonathan Mahapa

Fleishman-Hillard

+27 82 507 4042

jonathan.mahapa@fleishman.co.za

Recently, Neotel’s NeoConnect Lite Voice product scooped the Product of the Year award in the teleph ..

Recently, Neotel’s NeoConnect Lite Voice product scooped the Product of the Year award in the telephony category at the Product of the Year Awards ceremony hosted by Product Innovation few weeks ago at the Forum in Bryanston, Johannesburg.

Contenders were invited to submit their products with supporting documentation that details the level of innovation of the product.  Finalists were selected by a jury of experts from the manufacturing, marketing and media industries. Winners were then chosen based on the conducted national customer survey conducted by  a global research company, A.C Nielsen.

According to Wandile Zote, executive head of corporate communications at Neotel, NeoConnect Lite has generated customer satisfaction through affordability and accessibility.  “We are very delighted to have a product of the year in our product line. The NeoConnect Lite Voice product is available in two packages. The first allows the consumer to purchase the phone upfront for R599 including VAT and pay a monthly service fee of R99. The second package does not require upfront payment for the phone, charged at R199 per month and gives users 1000 free Neotel-to-Neotel minutes and 200 free sms messages. The free minutes are applicable for local, regional and national calls, resulting in calling between Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town and Durban,” says Zote.

“NeoConnect Lite Voice is a home phone that offers crystal clear voice, easy connection and no installation required,” he concludes.

For the next 12 months, Neotel will use the Product of the Year logo on its packaging, promotions and advertising. The stand-out red stamp is recognised as a sign of quality by consumers throughout the world.

Product Innovation’s Product of the Year has established itself as a brand that takes pride in championing innovation, whilst rewarding successful manufacturers for their product development through consumer recognition. 

Ends                                                           

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts: 

Chuma Siswana

Neotel

+27 11 585 0265

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za

 Jonathan Mahapa

Fleishman-Hillard

+27 11 548 2000

jonathan.mahapa@fleishman.co.za

On Friday the South African telecommunications industry celebrated the start of the final constructi ..

On Friday the South African telecommunications industry celebrated the start of the final construction phase of the Eastern Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy), with a visit to supplier Alcatel-Lucent’s fully-laden cable-laying ship docked in Durban harbour.

This weekend, the cable ship will commence laying the southern portion of the EASSy cable up the coastline from Mtunzini, where Neotel is already connected to the SAFE cable, and has its SEACOM landing station. The addition of EASSy will significantly boost international bandwidth capacity and redundancy and increase Internet connectivity competition in South Africa.

According to Dr Angus Hay, executive head of technology at Neotel, “The EASSy cable is now in its final rollout phase and will soon increase competition in the local market, and hopefully also accelerate ongoing price reduction for connectivity.”

“Neotel will now have connections to four cables, meaning that consumers are highly unlikely to experience downtime, after the EASSy cable goes live around August this year.As a member of the EASSy consortium, we are investing around 80 million Rand into this project so as to provide a wider range of connectivity options to our customers.”

Hay says the company is committed to continuing to increase reliability and security in the wake of the recent problems on SAT-3, when Neotel’s SEACOM cable connectivity proved a clear advantage over competitors. The addition of the EASSY cable in August means that Neotel will lead the pack in reliability and connectivity through four cables, and with access to Tata Communications’ hundreds of thousands of kilometres of submarine cable routes spanning the globe.

On Friday the telecommunications industry celebrated the landing of the East Africa Submarine Cable ..

On Friday the telecommunications industry celebrated the landing of the East Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy), in a ship at the Durban harbour.

In a week from now the EASSy cable will be laid by the ship along the Durban coastline, significantly boosting local bandwidth capacity and redundancy and boosting Internet connectivity competition in South Africa.

According to Angus Hay, executive head of technology at Neotel, “The EASSy cable is now in its final rollout phase and will increase competition in the local market and hopefully also accelerate ongoing price reduction for connectivity.”

“Neotel will now have connections to three cables, meaning consumers are unlikely to experience breakages, especially when the EASSy cable goes live around July this year. We are an upfront investor in EASSy; this means we can provide a wider range of connectivity options to customers after investing around 80 million rand into this project.The cable will go commercially live around August and add much needed competition to the SA market.”

Hay says the company is committed to offering increased reliability and security in the wake of the SAT3 break. The recent rolling out of the SEACOM cable and the addition of the EASSY cable in July, means that Neotel will lead the pack in capacity, reliability and line redundancy by being connected to a total of three global internet bandwidth cables.

Ends

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts: 

Chuma Siswana

Neotel

+27 71 853 4405

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za

Jonathan Mahapa

Fleishman-Hillard

+27 82 507 4042

jonathan.mahapa@fleishman.co.za

Neotel, the South African telecommunications challenger, has confirmed that everything is on track f ..

Neotel, the South African telecommunications challenger, has confirmed that everything is on track for individual number porting to become available in April 2010.

Geographic number portability is defined as the process via which customers can transfer their fixed line number from one operator to the next – maintaining their telephone number but switching operators.

“The porting of numbers in blocks of 10000 or 1000 has been available for some months now,” says Angus Hay, Executive Head - Technology at Neotel. “Unfortunately that excluded many  businesses, as it is only relevant to very large corporations.”

“Some large customers have already ported a number of 10000 and 1000 blocks to Neotel. In addition, we are already testing 100 block porting, and as of April will be able to do 100 block and individual porting for any customer,” he says.. “This is what South Africans have been waiting for, of course – the ability to port their individual fixed line telephone numbers.”

Geographic number portability brings a new dimension of freedom of choice to the consumer as they no longer have to lose their existing fixed line number when changing service providers. “This truly puts the consumer in charge of their own destiny when it comes to service providers,” Hay concludes.

ICASA ruled on the 18^th of December 2009 that ported numbers must be indicated to the consumer by the sound of 3 beeps while a call is being connected, as is currently the industry standard with ported cellular numbers.

Ends

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts: 

Chuma Siswana                                                                     

Neotel                                                                                    

+27 71 853 4405                                                                 

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za                                           

Jonathan Mahapa

Fleishman-Hillard

+27 82 507 4042

Jonathan.Mahapa@fleishman.co.za

Numerous Internet users in South Africa this week experienced international connectivity problems du ..

Numerous Internet users in South Africa this week experienced international connectivity problems due to a failure of the SAT-3 cable that connects Cape Town to Europe.

According to Dr. Angus Hay, Neotel’s Executive Head of Technology, Neotel Internet customers including local Internet Service Providers, businesses, and consumers were unaffected, because of Neotel’s policy of using multiple cables.

“The break of SAT-3 cable had no impact on our Internet customers, since services simply shifted to other cables. We make use of other cables such as SAFE, which runs from Durban to India and the Fast East, and particularly SEACOM, from north of Durban to East Africa, Asia and Europe, ensuring that Neotel customers are always connected to the rest of the world and the entire Internet,” says Dr. Hay.

“Our involvement in all the cable systems means that we can provide customers with fast, cost-effective and reliable international connectivity,” he says. “Neotel is also a member of the consortium building the Eastern African Submarine Cable System (EASSy), which will be operational and add more capacity in July 2010, providing our customers with cost-effective, reliable global Internet access.”

Neotel is the only South African telecoms company that offers connectivity through all the country’s major international submarine cable systems. “More cables will increase the available international bandwidth, as well as the level of reliability of international links,” he concludes.

Ends

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts: 

Chuma Siswana                                                                 

Neotel                                                                                  

+27 71 853 4405                                                                

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za                                        

Jonathan Mahapa

Fleishman-Hillard

+27 82 507 4042

Jonathan.Mahapa@fleishman.co.za

Neotel, the South African telecommunications challenger, has confirmed that everything is on track f ..

Neotel, the South African telecommunications challenger, has confirmed that everything is on track for individual number porting to become available in April 2010.

Geographic number portability is defined as the process via which customers can transfer their fixed line number from one operator to the next – maintaining their telephone number but switching operators.

“The porting of numbers in blocks of 10000 or 1000 has been available for some months now,” says Angus Hay, Executive Head - Technology at Neotel. “Unfortunately that excluded many businesses, as it is only relevant to very large corporations.”

“Some large customers have already ported a number of 10000 and 1000 blocks to Neotel. In addition, we are already testing 100 block porting, and as of April will be able to do 100 block and individual porting for any customer,” he says.. “This is what South Africans have been waiting for, of course – the ability to port their individual fixed line telephone numbers.”

Geographic number portability brings a new dimension of freedom of choice to the consumer as they no longer have to lose their existing fixed line number when changing service providers. “This truly puts the consumer in charge of their own destiny when it comes to service providers,” Hay concludes.

ICASA ruled on the 18^th of December 2009 that ported numbers must be indicated to the consumer by the sound of 3 beeps while a call is being connected, as is currently the industry standard with ported cellular numbers.

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.
Contacts:

Chuma Siswana                                     Lizelle Christison
Neotel                                                        Fleishman-Hillard
+27 71 853 4405                                    +27 82 417 0417
Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za            Lizelle.Christison@fleishman.co.za

Neotel, the innovative telecommunications challenger, has confirmed that the uptake of its internati ..

Neotel, the innovative telecommunications challenger, has confirmed that the uptake of its international capacity has far exceeded its forecasts.

“This bodes well for any new international capacity, such as that of EASSy (the Eastern African Submarine System),” says Dr Angus Hay, Executive Head – Technology at Neotel. “The demand for this international capacity has been much higher than anticipated, which proves there is a definite need for all the international cables.”

Neotel has to date provided clients with capacity from SAT-3/SAFE and SEACOM. “We have been adding capacity on SAT-3 rapidly, in addition to ongoing SEACOM sales, says Hay. “With EASSy expected to land in July, we forecast that the additional capacity on that route will be taken up just as quickly,” he adds.

“As a local company providing global access, we are the only South African telecoms company that offers connectivity through all the country’s major international submarine cable systems –SAT-3/SAFE and SEACOM, soon EASSy (East Africa), and later WACS (West Africa),” says Hay. “This heralds a new age of bandwidth competition, access and affordability for Africa to aggressively compete on the world stage. More cables will increase the available international bandwidth, as well as the level of reliability of international links,” he concludes.

About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts: 

Chuma Siswana                                                                     

Neotel                                                                                   

+27 71 853 4405                                                                 

Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za                                          

Lizelle Christison

Fleishman-Hillard

+27824170417

 Lizelle.Christison@fleishman.co.za

Neotel has confirmed that it will be withdrawing its cycling sponsorship of Team Neotel. This follow ..

Neotel has confirmed that it will be withdrawing its cycling sponsorship of Team Neotel. This follows the recent announcement that Cycling South Africa (CSA) has suspended Nolan Hoffman after positive test samples were returned by the SA Institute of Drug Free Sport. Hoffman’s suspension is an interim measure pending the outcome of a hearing.

“We have always competed to win without losing sight of the need for transformation,” says Ajay Pandey, CEO and MD of Neotel. “We are proud of the results that have been achieved.” Neotel’s involvement in cycling started three years ago with the sponsorship of the team as well as the establishment of a cycling academy. “We have over 40 young people in the academy, ranging from under 10 to under 18, all from previously disadvantaged backgrounds,” says Pandey. “Not only are the young people taught the skills they require to participate in cycling, but life-skills as well.”

From inception Team Neotel has been at the forefront of bringing change to the face of the local cycling circuit. “The team has achieved what some said was impossible and have produced results that rival some of the country’s premier cycling teams,” says Pandey.

With transformation, excellence and development as its key principles, the Neotel team and academy have produced a number of successes over the past three years, including some South African champions. “The biggest success story, however, is that we competed successfully, without losing sight of the need for transformation and development,” he says. “These athletes were not only participating for the sake of participating, but can proudly say that they’re among the best.”

Hoffman tested positive on the 18th of October 2009 and was informed of the positive findings on the 22nd of December 2009. A hearing will be scheduled in the next couple of weeks.

Hoffman is one of the top sprinters in the country. He has been a part of the academy for the past 6 years and has attracted a large following.
A repentful and tearful Hoffman explained that he had been struggling with a knee injury and could not perform optimally. Pressure, he says, created by self expectation and from the community around him drove him to the decision. In a letter addressed to the CSA Hoffman states he would have thought twice had he realised the damage his actions would cause. “I have disgraced the people and sponsors that supported me my whole career. I really hope this doesn’t cause any damage to them and the sport. I have disappointed everyone and I will face everything that is coming to me, I am truly sorry,” he writes.

Says Eugene Ruiters, team founder: “Although we empathise with his motivation, it is disappointing to have a role model such as himself resort to such action. Nolan has been the biggest success of our development plan. He has been in our system since 2004 and has developed into one of South Africa's top cyclists.” Ruiters adds that the team have always maintained a zero tolerance policy toward doping. “There are no excuses.”
“Because we have extremely high ethical standards as an organisation, which is evident in the way in which we deal with both internal and external stakeholder, we do not condone doping whatsoever,” says Pandey. “We have therefore assessed the risk and taken the decision to withdraw from the sport,” he concludes.
About Neotel:

Neotel is South Africa’s first converged communications network operator. It provides a range of value-added voice and data services for businesses, wholesale network operators and providers and consumers using its pure-IP Next Generation Network, powered by Neotel’s high-performance fibre optic backbone.  Neotel connects the major centres in South Africa to each other and to the world, directly linking the country into Tata Communications’s global Tier 1 network. Neotel offers fresh thinking, a creative approach and flexible solutions for communications in South Africa.

Contacts:
Chuma Siswana                                      Lizelle Christison
Neotel                                                        Fleishman-Hillard
+27 71 853 4405                                     +27 82 417 0417
Chuma.Siswana@neotel.co.za            Lizelle.Christison@fleishman.co.za