Publications
Partners
Johannesburg - Pan-African telecoms service provider Internet Solutions announced on Friday that it has launched Ignite, a suite of technology solutions specifically for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).
“With the right digital tools, we believe that SMEs can be just as efficient, connected and productive as corporates with large ICT budgets, if not more so,” said Tony Koutakis, executive head of Ignite.
By combining and streamlining three existing Internet Solutions’ divisions – MWEB Business, Ignite and IS Direct – SME clients can select from a range of internet connectivity, communication, cloud, payroll, accounting and recruitment services.
“As an SME’s business requirements change, they can add or cancel services immediately without worrying about time to connect or notice periods, from the office or from the road, with no ICT expertise required,” said Koutakis.
“SMEs often have lean, low-cost operations where less bureaucracy means decisions are made quickly. We built Ignite to mirror the agility and quick-to-market ethos of our clients, simplifying the use of ICT services.”
According to the Banking Association of South Africa, research suggests that SMEs make up 91% of formalised businesses locally, providing employment to about 60% of the labour force. The total economic output of these businesses accounts for roughly 34% of SA’s gross domestic product (GDP).
“If SMEs are to live up to the critical role envisioned for them, they need support in all aspects of their business,” said Koutakis. “SMEs are becoming more tech-savvy, but the rapid pace of change in the area of technology is a threat to some businesses.”
