BT to provide telepresence services to SWIFT

Three-year managed services contract brings SWIFT operational efficiency and supports environmentally friendly business practice

BT announced today the signature of a three-year managed services contract with SWIFT, the financial messaging provider for more than 8,600 institutions. Under the terms of the agreement, BT will provide its Unified Communications Video solution which connects strategic offices spread across Europe, the US and Asia. The solution, which includes five Cisco TelePresence™ units, brings SWIFT an immersive meeting experience, reduces travel costs and supports their environmentally responsible business practice. The units will be connected via SWIFT’s own mission-critical backbone, which enables its users to exchange automated, standardised financial information securely and reliably 24/7.

“We were attracted to BT’s complete service offering”, said Francis Vanbever, CFO SWIFT. “Based on our existing relationship with BT, we are confident that we have chosen the right conferencing partner. Cisco TelePresence technology helps our teams across the globe to interact and collaborate as if they were in the same room. It brings us numerous advantages in the areas of efficiency, cost-control and carbon emission reduction.”

Bas Burger, CEO BT Benelux, said: “By choosing BT as their global telepresence service provider, SWIFT receives a complete managed services wrap complemented by BT Conferencing, delivering reliable, robust and innovative conferencing services and devices.”

General Manager Cisco Belux Pol Vanbiervliet, added: “Non-verbal cues from body language to eye contact help build confidence and trust. However, they can be lost when using traditional video conferencing systems. With ultra-high definition displays and advanced audio, Cisco TelePresence preserves the attributes of an ‘in-person’ meeting.”

The contract entails the implementation of five systems, supporting equipment and software. Furthermore, BT will provide managed services, such as the OneCare Plus Service and Concierge services, which include 24/7 helpdesk support and on-site maintenance, pro-active system monitoring and remote diagnostics.