Broadband software platform and managed services company Automation Exchange (AEX) has expanded its marketing and sales automation offerings for Internet Service Providers ( ISPs ) and Fiber Network Operators with the acquisition of local tech business TelcoTech.
Telcotech provides a smart marketing and sales automation tool that enables customer sign-ups and payments for ISP’s, maximising sales retention as well as lead generation, significantly lowering the cost of customer acquisition.
TelcoTech, CEO Greg McLaughlin, said: “AEX pioneered the first broadband OSS/BSS software built by network operators for network operators, enabling easy management and monitoring of both Open and Closed Access networks. TelcoTech’s marketing and sales automation software extends our offering to a wider international market.
“Christopher Peters, CEO of TelcoTech, is the visionary behind TelcoTech, and initially introduced the Fibre Compare platform – a fibre aggregator akin to a Hippo for customers looking for fibre network operators in their area.
“The Fibre Compare platform is a comprehensive catalogue, empowering users to search, compare, and purchase products and services from FNO and ISPs in their neighbourhood,” Peters said.
As the demand for fibre surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fibre Compare platform evolved into a vital lead generator for both FNOs and ISPs.
Recognising the challenges faced by ISPs running on thin profit margins in a highly competitive industry, TelcoTech adapted the platform to make it relevant and accessible to ISPs.
“The result is a smart marketing and sales automation tool that enables customer sign-ups and payments, maximising sales retention as well as lead generation. Notably, the cost of customer acquisition is lowered significantly to around 40%,” Peters said.
The new TelcoTech system is intricately linked to a GIS service, providing customers with visibility into the FNOs operating in their area. This integration has led to a dramatic reduction in sales cycles, alleviating the decision-making burden on customers and streamlining the sales process and the accuracy with which data can be mapped.
“The TelcoTech platform not only improves the efficiency of fibre networks in South Africa but also positions AEX to explore international markets that are rapidly expanding their fibre infrastructure, including the US, UK and Africa,” said Brian Jervis, AEX South Africa’s Country Head.
Key to the TelcoTech system’s appeal is its ‘vendor agnostic’ nature. Described as plug-and-play, the platform is designed for easy implementation by every ISP, using their technological ability. It enhances users’ decision-making abilities about the product specs on offer, payment processes and service availability in their area.
AEX’s acquisition, helped by Myriad Capital, has played a crucial role in the development and launch of the system. This strategic move reinforces AEX’s commitment to advancing digital infrastructure solutions that empower ISPs and FNOs in an evolving landscape.
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