The comprehensive RFI is far-reaching and services-rich, requesting information embracing many of the new advanced unified communications services coming to market, including; mobile VoIP via WLAN services, one number converged IP telephony, one mailbox, 3G roaming, mobile extension, PDA synchronisation, call centre virtualisation, presence, videoconferencing and SMS applications to name just a few.
CIO Tim Occleshaw says that technology offers the opportunity to remove barriers to services and improves responsiveness to clients and stakeholders. "Our infrastructure will provide a platform for newer methods of collaboration within and outside MSD. It will provide virtual means of collaboration to augment our physical processes and work environments, such as instant messaging, videoconferencing and enhanced document sharing. The aim is to provide a variety of tools that assist people in collaborative activities."
The RFI embraces widely talked about concept of pushing advanced telephony and communications services from core users (often centralised contact centre agents) out to the edge (all users).
"Our roadmap is to modernise our existing network services, directory services and endpoint devices like desktop PCs and mobile phones. The roadmap will deliver greater mobility (e.g. wireless connectivity) and flexibility for users which better matches the way our staff work," says Occleshaw.
MSD is regarded as a "big ticket" item and the telecommunications industry will watch with interest as it embarks on the significant network modernisation, ascerting the organisation's position as a technology leader in New Zealand.
In the RFI the MSD says it supports the government shared network (GSN), and specifies a number of the GSN's products for inclusion in the new network.
We are also working closely with the e-Government Unit as part of our Telecommunications Service Review and will assess and implement these services where appropriate," says Occleshaw.
The RFI says it seeks to "significantly reduce overall telecommunications costs". The current core platform consists of a Cisco IP telephony solution running on SUN servers across Cisco routers and switches.
One of the world leaders in IP telephony, CIO Tim Occleshaw says the MSD is not afraid of early adoption of new technology. "We have been early adopters of technology where it supports our outcomes approach."
Occleshaw says the MSD will look at both procurement approaches in the market at present. "As part of our procurement process we are happy to evaluate ‘one-stop-shop' or multi-sourcing services arrangements. Decisions on the range or mix of service approaches will be based on what best supports MSD."
He says he is impressed with the caliber of responses received thus far, but says he does not expect to be in a position to make a decision until mid-2007
Autor(en)/Author(s): Matt Freeman
Quelle/Source: m-net, 10.04.2007
