Datacom extends UC portfolio through 8x8 partnership

Datacom's unified communications (UC) portfolio is expanding to include cloud communications platform 8x8, the company announced today.

Datacom will offer 8x8's platform alongside other UC vendors, particularly as the market towards Unified Communications as-a-Service (UCaaS) solutions.

The partnership with 8x8 builds on Datacom's existing relationships with both Ingram Micro and Poly.

According to Datacom general manager of networks, Sam Ereckson, Datacom offers a best of breed solution from multiple vendors. This is so customers received tailored solutions based on their individual needs and scenarios.

"In addition to a comprehensive UC, video, collaboration and contact centre portfolio, 8x8 solutions include a secure global network that provides clients with calling services, removing the need for a local voice telecommunications service provider," says Ereckson.

8x8's vice president of Asia Pacific and China, Brendan Maree, says, "Our unique product solution and company capabilities have enabled us to form this strategic partnership with Datacom and we now look forward to jointly enhancing customer experience throughout the region.

Ingram Micro business manager Danny Meadows says Ingram Micro is the New Zealand distributor for both 8x8 and Poly.

"We are looking forward to expanding our partnership with Datacom. Both Dayle Barnes from Poly and Deane Jessep from 8x8 are very enthusiastic about the partnership seeing Datacom and Ingram Micro as an excellent scale route to market," says Meadows.

To drive the partnership's success, Datacom has appointed James Bennett as its first UC sales specialist. Bennett has spent the last seven years selling UC services. He brings expertise that will complement  Datacom's UC and Collaboration professional services capability.

Recently Datacom consultant David Hull was recognised by security firm Palo Alto Networks as one of only 37 CYBERFORCE guardians around the world.

Guardians must complete the Palo Alto Networks Cyberforce technical recognition programme.

He will now help Datacom to gain access to training, key event access, and certification exam vouchers.

"Datacom is a strategic partner and David Hull is an important extension of our team at Palo Alto Networks in New Zealand. Being recognised as the 36th CYBERFORCE Guardian and the first in the Asia-Pacific and Japan region is impressive. David has certainly earned his place in this elite group of highly trained, self-sufficient engineers who are instrumental in protecting our digital way of life by preventing successful cyber attacks," commented Palo Alto Networks New Zealand country manager Misti Landtroop at the time of the announcement.

To achieve Guardian status, a professional must earn XP points through a combination of performance, certifications and technical credentials and customer feedback.