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Source: iStock.com/Vladimir_Timofeev
Telecommunications: Why auto-provisioning of devices is the future
9. April 2018 Published by Raphael DoerrAuto-provisioning is a familiar aspect for every reseller in the telecommunications segment. By uploading the necessary configuration and account data to a phone, users are able to make the best use of their device and benefit from its features. Auto-provisioning is the next step. At Gigaset pro, all of our devices provide auto-provisioning to easily connect to the servers of most telephone platforms and download both provider and user-specific parameters. All device parameters can thus be modified automatically, without requiring a technician on site. Auto-provisioning offers various benefits for both end users and resellers, making it an aspect telecommunications companies cannot ignore – either now or in the future.
Quick and efficient set-up
One of the biggest advantages of auto-provisioning is that resellers are able to deliver a device directly from the warehouse to the end user. It only has to be sent to the customers, who can connect the device to the company network themselves. The configuration and most recent settings are automatically added to the device. And as soon as new firmware is available, the device will automatically be updated. Thanks to this ‘plug and play’ method, minimal user interaction is needed, giving the user more convenience. On the other hand, the reseller no longer has to visit customers every time a new device needs to be installed. And even when visiting the end customer on site, auto-provisioning minimizes the time needed to install a device.
User-friendliness
It’s not only the set-up that requires minimal user interaction. The same is also true for keeping the device up-to-date with the latest settings. Many telecommunications platforms also have a web interface, where users can manage their telephony environment. When changes are needed, for example, in the business contact directory, all modifications are automatically uploaded to all devices. And because new configurations are also automatically added, users can always be sure they have the right settings. What if an end user manages to make incorrect changes to their telephony environment using the interface? In this case, all settings are loaded automatically by resetting the device combined with auto-provisioning. The end user can now use their device without having to wait for a service technician.
Personal support
At Gigaset pro, we firmly believe that the capabilities of auto-provisioning and telephony platforms help provide end users with the best possible support. Nevertheless, personal support plays a critical role for every telecommunications manufacturer. That’s why we work with partners to make sure our devices are suitable for as many IP platforms as possible. In Europe, there are over a hundred different IP and Unified Communications (UC) platforms, and their settings change daily. Gigaset pro supports both the major and smaller platforms. But we also need to help resellers who offer a platform that we don’t yet support. Together, we are addressing the question: How can we create the ideal communication solution that comprises both the specific platform and our devices? On-site support is often the quickest way to implement auto-provisioning.
In our opinion, this is the only way to best serve the market. Nowadays, companies require a single communication solution, rather than separate devices, to support their employees in their daily work. Resellers and telecommunications manufacturers therefore need to join forces to offer customers the best service from both sides. Only then will they have a comprehensive communication solution – including all modern telephony functions and high-quality devices – to make their business future proof.
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