INDUSTRY NEWS COMMENT: FCS UPDATE Michael Eagle
FCS members providing numbering services have expressed concern over Ofcom proposals to introduce a scheme to compensate customers for delays or abuse of number portability when there are continuing problems with the porting process itself. The new obligation is being implemented by means of a revision to General Condition 18 and came into effect on 25th May. Ofcom expected CPs to have a compliant
scheme in place by this date despite the fact that its final statement on a number of changes to the General Conditions was not due for publication until 23rd May. FCS is seeking clarification from Ofcom on several aspects of the proposal which remain unclear: Who is liable when a port fails, especially when problems arise from issues between parties within the distribution chain?; what is an acceptable level of compensation?; will CPs be able to recover compensation from wholesale partners?, how will the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) schemes manage disputes arising from these claims?; and how should the schemes be publicised by CPs? In order to progress this, we will be writing to Ofcom with more questions on the above issues and liaising with the ADR schemes on their interpretation. We will also consider any competition issues. In the meantime, we have taken the view that the existing statement on compensation contained in the model FCS code of practice covers the obligation without any need for amendment (CPs can obviously include a specific reference to porting on a voluntary basis) and that any complaints or disputes about porting failures can (and should) be referred to ADR via the existing complaints process (ie, after eight weeks). CPs who have queries on this subject or on the existing regulatory requirements for codes of practice can contact me on
meagle@fcs.org.uk.
Michael Eagle, FCS General Manager
SwyxWare’s aiming high
NEW packaging, a simplified licensing procedure and new features such as rich presence and HD voice quality come as standard with SwyxWare 2011, launched last month.
Swyx is forecasting an easier sell for channel partners with higher margins based on the design of tailor made solutions. With revised licensing and additional features Swyx plans to woo many more partners this year. Marco Crueger, Sales Director, said: “By simplifying the licensing model resellers are no longer restricted by the num- ber of licences they have to buy or different feature sets. “With the new product, a set of features including rich pres- ence and intelligent call man-
agement come as standard with several optional extras such as SwyxMobile and SwyxFax. This approach makes it more cost-effective for resellers to build a feature rich solution. “This year, we are investing more in marketing both to the channel and end users and are aiming to recruit a further 50 partners in 2011.”
He noted that the focus of
SwyxWare 2011 is to improve lines of communication so col- leagues can maximise their availability in the office, on the move or at a remote location, making for better customer ser- vice and greater productivity.
Got a news story? email:
sgilroy@bpl-business.com
Easy acquires Kent IT
EASY Group has acquired Kent IT, a firm that supports more than 500 businesses and organi- sations of all sizes throughout the south east.
Simon Mewett, MD of the Easy Group, said: “We have a massive expansion plan to grow the business and the acquisition of Kent IT is a fantastic boost to our portfolio of solutions.
“We are now a complete connectivity solutions provider for IT, mobiles, networks and telephones. The team at Kent IT will all be integrated into the family of the Easy Group. “We have rebranded our business and website to reflect our complete business offering, to businesses, the education and public sector organisations.”
SHORT CALLS
The 3CX phone system version 10 launched last month includes a new user friendly web-based app, 3CX MyPhone, which makes it easier for users to take advantage of advanced UC and VoIP features.
New developments to the ebillz billing system include seamless polling of data from the Strategic Imperatives WLR3 portal; dynamic creation of line rentals and CNF service charges on line order completion as well as line orders in advance; and Sage payment integration.
Colt has deepened its finance sector focus by signing a binding agreement to acquire a majority shareholding in MarketPrizm, a provider of low latency market data and trading infrastructure services.
Toshiba BCD has extended its Advantage Programme until 30th September. Daniel Fuller-Smith, Sales Manager, said: “By extending the programme we are demonstrating our continued support for resellers and recognising their commitment to Toshiba and its product range.”
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10 COMMS DEALER JUNE 2011
www.comms-dealer.com
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