The non-exclusive alliance, which is part of Absa’s long term IT vision, formalises a long standing business relationship between the two organisations.
The deal will ensure closer cooperation and knowledge-sharing in the areas of information technology design, development, application, support and integration.
The first project undertaken in terms of the alliance will involve the upgrading of Absa’s call centre technology and digital delivery channels telephone, internet and cellphone banking.
These and other such initiatives are expected to increase the Group’s e-business capacities, enhance customer services, improve operating efficiencies and drive down operating costs.
Says Bert Griesel, Absa Group Executive Director: Dimension Data has global experience in the networking and interactive commerce fields. The company has been involved in a number of major Absa projects in the past, and is therefore well positioned to address the specific integration and connectivity requirements of the Group.
Says Jeremy Ord, Dimension Data’s Chairman and CEO: In the new relationship, Dimension Data will be able to gain a deeper level of understanding of Absa’s business requirements in the e-business and information technology arena and be in a position to provide professional services and the relevant technology to address these requirements.
By elevating the relationship to the level of a strategic alliance, the two companies have committed to the sharing of strategic information and the initiation of projects designed to leverage technology.
Absa’s IT model, devised in collaboration with AT Kearney allows for technology alliances with key players in the market where appropriate. We want to remain flexible and focus on our core competencies, says Griesel.
