- Represents technological breakthrough for IP Centrex -

Reading, UK, 4th February 2008 – British managed voice and data communications provider, 8el introduces an Operator Console for CallPort, its managed ‘business grade’ VoIP service launched last autumn. Since IP is not bound by geography, the console removes the need to have an operator on every site, as well as providing advanced call handling features.

Technology breakthrough

Says commercial director John Rees, “Technologically speaking, this is a real breakthrough and we believe puts CallPort ahead of any other IP Centrex voice service on the market today. The benefit of IP Centrex is that it is a very flexible managed approach, with the ability to divert calls via alternative routes, unlike IP PBXs, where the service is ‘point to point’ and therefore, not resilient to failure.

“However, one common criticism that can be made against IP Centrex is that the lack of central operator administration makes users feel that they do not have full control. With the introduction of our Operator Console, they now have the kind of call management features found in advanced PBX solutions.”

User benefits

The operator console gives users a wide range of call handling management facilities, activated via an intuitive Windows-based user interface, complete with familiar ‘drag and drop’ tools. IP technology means that telecom services are no longer fixed on a geographic location, so there is no need to have an operator on every site.

Advantages include the ability to centralise call management, as well as holiday and sickness cover, even using a remotely located operator. For example, in the case of a local disaster, the operator could even maintain full switchboard functionality working from a laptop at home. The operator console also provides all the functionality of a powerful voice conferencing bridge.

About CallPort

CallPort is a managed ‘business grade’ VoIP service for businesses ranging from SMEs to corporate (typically 50-1500 users). Based on Next Generation Networking (NGN) IP Centrex technology, the service gives users the flexibility and sophisticated functions possible through new IP technology, but with the reliability and quality of traditional phone services. 8el manages the service remotely, but users maintain control over service configuration. Free local and national calls, plus integration with mobile phones, are added benefits. CallPort can also run alongside existing PBXs, so there is no need to make the leap to complete VoIP overnight.

About 8el

8el (pronounced “A-Tel”) is the trading name of Aggregated Telecom Limited. 8el is a British communications provider specialising in bespoke solutions for businesses, including IP telephony, data and ISP services. Founded in 1999, the privately-financed company reached rapid profitability and today, supports more than 40,000 UK customers with its comprehensive portfolio of voice and data communications services. One of the company’s key strengths is its focus on customer service: in an independent survey, over 90% of customers said they would recommend 8el. Previously featured on the Times Tech 100 as one of the UK’s fastest growing telecoms companies, 8el is headquartered in Reading, Berkshire, UK.

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PR contacts: Or:

Natalie Squires Maxine Ambrose, Jane Lee

8el Ambrose Communications

0118 338 3024 01491 412944

Natalie.squires@8el.com 8el@ambrosecomms.co.uk