Welcome to the Comms Group News Area...
Comms Group Social Media
Find us on Social Networks Comms Group are now on Twitter, Facebook, Linked In and many more. Connect with us today and hear the latest news, activities and updates.
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/commsgroupuk
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/commsgroup
Linked In: http://www.linkedin.com/company/comms-group-uk-limited
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/commsgroup
Mobile 4G Launch
Comms Group is proud to be selected as part of ELITE group of companies able to support the roll out the UK’s first 4G mobile network with EE.
Having met the required criteria due to Comms Group’s business to business expertise in providing mobile solutions for voice and data they are now strategically placed to offer the fastest data network in the UK.
For more information please go to our dedicated page www.commsgroup.com/Mobile-4G.asp
Nokia Windows Mobile 8
Nokia has been first to release a phone using the new Microsoft Windows Mobile 8 platform. The Lumia 920 and Lumia 820 are the first devices to hit the high street.
Nokia hope to jump the market ahead of the highly anticipated release of Apples offering, the iPhone 5
If you want to know more please call on 0844 848 8144
Avaya IP Office 8.1 Features
To ensure business users have the capabilities required for an evolving work environment, Avaya IP Office 8.1 introduces the following:-
Avaya Flare® Communicator, the advanced mobility app previously only available to large enterprises, is now available to Avaya IP Office SME users on Apple iPad tablets or Windows-based laptops. It enables mobile access to collaboration capabilities such as business-class calling, presence, company directory search, and management of two simultaneous calls while mobile. Avaya Flare®
Communicator for iPad tablets lets users 'drag and drop' available contacts into a spotlight, and launch instant messages, voice calls or emails by simply tapping the screen. The Avaya Flare® Communicator for Windows brings these capabilities to laptops.
New Centralized Management and licensing capabilities eliminate the complexity of overseeing communications for multi-site environments by enabling effective management of several sites from one location. Adjustments to individual sites can be made using a simple administration tool, saving on costs, labor and time.
Enhanced Security Options for Avaya IP Office adds protection against toll fraud, denial of service attacks, and other threats through use of a new SME version of Avaya Session Border Controller—a solution delivering a protective SIP-based firewall. It makes security easy and affordable for SMEs to implement, with advanced capabilities for mobile workers such as the ability to encrypt media and signaling connections without using a VPN for UC. Availability anticipated later calendar 3Q '12.
Avaya IP Office Support Service, the first support service from Avaya for SMEs, provides fast resolution, technical support from experts, and secure remote access. New SSL-VPN capabilities embedded in Avaya IP Office 8.1 help ensure secure delivery of upgrades, patches and Web-based services. Fully supported customers are entitled to upgrades via Avaya partners.
Avaya IP Office 8.1
Avaya has recently announced the new version of its unified communications (UC) solution for small and mid-sized enterprises (SME), Avaya IP Office 8.1, which adds innovative capabilities to tap the full potential of next-generation collaboration. This includes new mobility, management and security features—as well as custom-built services—to help SMEs efficiently and securely take advantage of BYOD ("Bring Your Own Device") environments and advanced mobility.
If you require further information on how this latest release can help your business then please call sales now on 0844 848 8144
Your in Safe Hands
Highly trained and experienced staff
Working with fast-moving technology and specialist equipment means investing in training and expertise. Comms Group staff are accredited and trained by world class technology providers including Avaya and Panasonic. Directors Matt Tarry and Paul Simmons, co-founders of the independent business, have 18 years’ experience in the telecoms industry. They are proud of the low turnover among their 22 staff, who each have an average of three years’ experience in the sector.
Matt says, “We have an exceptionally loyal customer base because we offer consistently good solutions no matter what the request, problem or challenge is. Competitive prices and exceptional service have been key to our growth and expansion. Long-standing customers continue to trust us to look after them in more areas of technology than ever before and we’re proud that recommendations and our good reputation bring us a steady stream of new enquiries. We recently moved to larger offices so we have room to grow further, as demand for our services increases.”
If you’d like to know how your business could use phone systems and technology more effectively and cheaply, talk to Comms Group. Call Liam on 0844 848 8144 for a no-obligation discussion of how we could help you with any or all aspects of your telephony and IT networks.
Quality of Service
High quality service at every touchpoint
Unlike many regional technology service companies, Comms Group does not use subcontractors. It directly employs its business professionals, technology specialists and engineers, so everyone is committed to the same high standards of customer service. It’s a fundamental element of the company’s approach, ensuring consistent and high standards of service across the entire operation.
If you wish to join our growing number of customers and experience the service you deserve then give Comms Group a call on 0844 848 8144
Cost Savings Galore
Saving money on bills
Comms Group has agreements with the major telephone system manufacturers, mobile phone and business landline providers so it can provide the best communication package for your individual business needs. They offer free billing analysis, to identify where and how much you could save your business by switching to a new low cost call charges provider.
Comms Group in the News
Headline: Are your phone and IT systems doing everything your business needs?
Keeping in touch effectively with customers, suppliers and colleagues is vital for every successful business. An unreliable or ineffective phone or IT system directly affects your sales and profitability. Does your current set up do everything you need it to? Do you have reliable, responsive support and maintenance arrangements? Are you confident that you’ve got the best deal with your phone provider and that you’re not missing out on technology that could help you run your business more efficiently and cost effectively?
When it comes to your phone systems and technology, there’s only one number you need to know. Comms Group in Northampton offers a complete communication service to meet the specific needs of your business. The team’s expertise covers every aspect of fixed line, mobile, switchboard, IVR, IT network, cabling, data and digital communications.
A one-stop shop for business communication.
Communicating on every level
At Comms Group, it doesn’t matter which method of communication you choose, they have all the bases covered since recent expansion added graphic and web design arms to the already-successful national telecommunications service.
Northampton, Northamptonshire, February 15, 2011 - Director Matt Tarry commented: “We are the new boys on the block with regards to communications companies in the South Midlands region, however we treat this as a massive positive as we have accumulated a wealth of experience in the industry and addressed all of the issues that long-established companies fail to see. Our philosophy is to provide fresh, innovative, customer-focused solutions for all corporate communications with an emphasis on value for money whilst creating that wow factor. We make it easy to be the provider of choice for all of your communications”
Established by directors Matt Tarry and Paul Simmons in 2008, who together have, 15 years’ experience within the telecoms industry, and employing staff with an average of 4 years experience within the sector, Comms Group provides a knowledgeable and experienced service. Initially Comms Group solely provided telephone system solutions, landline networks and business mobile phone contracts that ensured significant savings for their clients compared to using BT’s equivalent services.
Comms Group has agreements with the major telephone system manufacturers, mobile phone and business landline providers allowing it to provide the best communication packages, complete with low-cost call charges, free billing analysis and UK support staff. Avoro provide networking products on-line with next day delivery, keeping businesses networks running smoothly.
In autumn last year, graphic designer David Keay and website & SEO specialist Wayde Rathbone joined the team to bring years of expertise in graphics, websites and marketing to the company in the form of Comms Group Creative.
This is the graphic and website-design arm of the business, which consists of a team of highly experienced in-house graphic designers and web developers who specialise in on and off-line graphic design. They can assist with all types of graphic design from a one-off print job through to a fully tailored package of company identity branding, stationery, signage, website and marketing materials.
“
Communication takes many forms and what Comms Group now offers is the opportunity for clients to bring all their communications together, from their phone systems to their email marketing, so with one central point of expertise to help them communicate effectively,” said David Keay.
“
A website that looks great isn’t necessarily good on functionality, and vice versa. At Comms Group we have experts in both, working together to create something that catches the eye, but that also delivers the required results.”
Comms Group Creative's focus is on excellence; building websites that will achieve the desired results – targeted at businesses of all sizes, from start-ups to national organisations.
Wayde Rathbone added: “For a small business, or a start-up, it’s difficult to know where to begin to find all the services you need. At Comms Group, we can combine all those services, looking after telephones, website, marketing, branding and stationery under one roof. It’s a complete package for businesses of all sizes.”
Director Matt Tarry summarised: “Clients get to know and trust us. We offer real consistency which has been key to our growth and expansion. Comms Group is now a team of 17 experts ready to guide clients through all aspects of communication.”
Comms Group Acquire Avoro
Comms Group are pleased to announce the recent acquisition of the Avoro data and networking company. This strengthens the Comms Group product portfolio allowing for networking/data supplies to be distributed to end users and installers on a next day basis. The comprehensive website highlighting all of the products available can be found at www.shop4networking.co.uk
Apple iPhone 4 Jailbreak
The latest news to hit the internet, the new iPhone 4 Jailbreak is it real or fake? The rumours are rife that the new software will unlock the enormous potential of the latest Apple offering. But is it real or fake. We’ve spotted numerous other claims from folk who say they’ve got a working iPhone 4 jailbreak but until we see something from the iPhone Dev Team, we won’t be convinced. For further information on our mobile services please call 0844 848 81 44 or go to our mobile pages
Missing demo of Apple I-Phone 4G
Apple supremo Steve Jobs personally intervened in trying to get back a missing prototype of the iPhone 4G after it was sold to tech site Gizmodoby emailing editor Brian Lam, according to newly released police documents.
In an unusual step, the San Mateo County judge in the case has responded to media pressure by allowing documents including search warrants to be made public. More info can be found on the yahoo news site.
Comms Group are providing the very latest mobile phone and I-Phone 3G packages call 0844 848 81 44 to find out more.
Ofcom Announce Broadband Initiative For The Elderly
A recent announcement on the Ofcom website informs of a nationwide initiative to get the elder generation to start using the internet.
Comms Group provide some of the fastest and most reliable broadband services in the UK.
Many of us will know an older friend or relative who has yet to make the most of the opportunities offered by the internet.
A nationwide initiative next week aims to encourage thousands of older people to try out computers for the first time and learn about life online.
Silver Surfers’ Day, which is organised by Digital Unite and supported by the Digital Participation Consortium, is taking place this year on Friday, 21 May.
Avaya IP Office Release 6
Comms Group are pleased to announce the arrival of Avaya's IP Office Release 6 which is the first Avaya SMB product release since announcing the Avaya Nortel integrated SMB roadmap.The Avaya announcement on the fate of the Nortel SMB product line suggests a migration of the Nortel SMB portfolio to the Avaya IP Office portfolio, and some of the product enhancements suggest Avaya understands where they were weak vis a vis Nortel’s strengths.
Some of the significant enhancements of Release 6 include:
- Support for the 9600 series of IP sets. This phone was formerly only available on the Avaya Communication Manager product. They are now supported on IP Office.
- Video conference capability on the SoftPhone client
- Support for the new 1400 series digital sets. The 1400 series have the same look and feel as the 1600 series IP sets. Unfortunately the phone still has the paper inserts
– New line card for IP Office which includes: a combo 6 Digital phones, 2 analog phones, 4 analog trunks, 10 VCM channels, and power fail
– New Partner ETR card which includes: 6 partner phones, 4 analog trunks, power fail on IP Office V2
– Some significant enhancements to the resiliency functionality on the product especially as it relates to the voice mail resiliency
– Small Community Network now supports up to 1000 users
For further information please call 0844 848 8144
Comms Group Wins Bid
Comms Group are pleased to announce the winning of a £29,000 tender for installation and configuration of a new Avaya IP Office 500 telephone system and an integrated HP Network Solution. Paul Simmons, Technical Director comments, this just goes to show the ability we have to win business of this size. We have worked closely with the client to ensure the most cost effective solution, whilst delivering leading edge technology which will ensure that the client can work more efficiently in the future proving a fantastic return on investment.
Oak Call Reporting
Comms Group are pleased to announce the new range of call reporting and call recording packages available from the industry leading profider, OAK. The products are actively used by some leading brands, the likes of BBC, British Airways and Mercedes.
The most popular products are the CALL LOGGING and CALL RECORDING allowing for seamless integration into your own databse products which can be acheived through bespoke programming.
For detailed information please visit our downloads section or contact the sales office on 0844 848 81 44
Comms Group launch 48Mbps Bonded ADSL2 plus Service
Offering up to 48Mbps down/5Mbps up, A Comms Group partner has announced the first service in the UK to offer network-level bonded ADSL2plus business broadband.
Using the most advanced and mature LLU ADSL2 plus network in the UK, The Comms Group service delivers the full potential of ADSL2 plus connectivity over 2 bonded lines. That means, subject to line conditions, maximum speeds of 48Mbps downstream and 5Mbps upstream are achievable for the first time over 2 standard BT lines.
Alongside the dramatic increase in available bandwidth, this bonded ADSL2 plus service has no restrictive contention or usage allowances – making it a realistic alternative to expensive leased lines or Ethernet services.
The service is available to pre-order now, with connections due to start going live in November 2009, and has a price point lower than that of a typical 2Mbps SDSL service. It also takes advantage of the recently launched NetSTATS bandwidth statistics and email alerting service to provide detailed usage information normally only found on leased lines.
Comms Group state that this bonded ADSL2 plus service fits between DSL services and more expensive leased lines, giving resellers and customers a like a new opportunities to win business and drive down costs
Comms Group gives customers new options for remote access, telephony, hosting and video applications with enormous potential for reducing costs while deploying additional network services. Comms Group and their partners are a key part in the drive to provide high performance, high availability business Internet services whilst reducing complexity
Customers wishing to pre-order should contact their account manager confirm availability. Further details are available on 0844 848 81 44
Comms Group lists in FreeIndex
Having launched the new website, Comms Group have now completed the valuable regsitration process for the Free Index internet listings. With the need to get as much exposure as possible on the internet Comms Group has taken the opportunity to list on the Free Index search facility. You can see more information at http://www.freeindex.co.uk/profile(comms-group-uk-ltd)_211315.htm
Changes to 0845 NGN Numbers
Important changes surround the usage and availability of the Kingston Non Geograhic 0845 number range. If you contniue to use the 0845 number range then you may lose valued revenue or require a tariff change to continue to receive incoming calls. However the number range will still be availble and there will be no need to change marketing collateral and changes if any will be minimal.
The option is available to move from an 0845 range to the increasingly popular 0843/0844 or 03 number ranges. For further information please call our sales line on 0844 848 81 44 who will be happy to assist with your enquiry.
Ofcom Step in on Mobile Regulations
The mobile sector is under continuing regulatory oversight by Ofcom and the Government. Here, Jacqui Brookes, CEO of the FCS, addresses a new set of regulatory questions.
The Digital Britain Report issued in June promised more spectrum for mobile operators to roll out 3G/4G networks, but the sticking point has been how to divvy it up. There is apparent impasse in discussions between operators, and the Adjudicator continues to seek an acceptable outcome. In the mean time, following on from the UK Porting debacle in 2008, Ofcom has spent the last year looking at two areas of activity where there is potential customer detriment - mobile number portability and call routing. The Ofcom team have used evidence from the mobile industry to assess the costs of its new proposals for MNP and routing, which should avoid a further complaint to the Competition Appeals Tribunal by affected operators.
Tracking-Messaging and Reporting just got smarter
Navman Wireless, a global leader in vehicle tracking, has launched the latest version of its award-winning integrated tracking service. This includes messaging and navigation in one device to help fleet businesses slash operating costs - and it's smarter and more durable than ever.
The M-Nav 750 - the state-of-the-art satellite business device for business users - boasts one of the fastest routing engines in the world, resilient housing and a wealth of functions to optimise fleet efficiency.
"This is the only dedicated unit for business users combining tracking, messaging and satellite navigation and has been launched following widespread industry consultation," said Tony Neill, Executive Vice President, Navman Wireless.
Vehicle information and unlimited two-way text messages are sent between the M-Nav 750 and the customer's offices via the internet.
With 'accept and go' functionality, the device routes drivers from the desktop to the customer's doorstep. When they click to accept a message from head office, the device automatically launches the relevant on-screen map and instructions to the next job, with no need to input postcode details.
Significantly, Navman Wireless's innovative new product includes a warranty and insurance cover, including accidental damage, as standard for the life of a customer's contract.
"The M-Nav 750's range of business functions will not only help fleets boost their operational efficiency, it will improve companies' bottom line, their duty of care responsibilities to employees and their drivers' working lives," said Tony.
"This latest incarnation of the company's award-winning M-Nav 650, demonstrates our ongoing commitment to research and development."
Other key features include a range of European language options, over speed reports that warn when a vehicle exceeds the maximum speed limit for the road it is on, and driver ID functionality.
The M-Nav 750, which improves upon the design of its predecessor with the latest in ergonomic styling, also compels drivers to carry out vehicle checks in line with their company's health and safety policy, every day, before they start work.
Navman Wireless is the UK's largest manufacturer of tracking, messaging and navigation equipment.
Avaya Wins Bid
Nortel Networks Corporation has chosen Avaya Inc. as the successful bidder for the Enterprise Solutions division. This announcement comes after weeks of speculation about a supposed rival bid from Siemens Enterprise Solutions.
Although still awaiting court approvals, Avaya have agreed to pay $900 million (around £621 million) for Nortel’s Enterprise Solutions Division as well as a reported $15 million (around £8.1 million) to be used for an employee retention programme. It’s taken quite a while and there’s been so much gossip surrounding this deal that I’ve half been looking out for a shining star over Avaya HQ and three wise men, but it finally seems like Avaya have exactly what they want! About time.
Mobile Connections Scrutinised
At midnight last night (16/09/09) the new OFCOM Mobile Mis-selling Rules came into force. Mobile service providers and re-sellers are now required to abide by new rules about mobile selling after a slew of complaints against providers. If a provider is found to be in violation of the new rules then they could be fined up to 10% of relevant turnover.
Some of the new rules include the following requirements:
- not mis-sell mobile phone services;
- make sure the customer intends and is authorised to enter into a contract;
- make sure consumers get the information they need at the point of sale;
- make sure that the terms and conditions of cash back deals offered by their retailers are not unduly restrictive; and
- carry out certain due diligence checks in respect of their retailers.
These rules deal with the main subjects of the majority of the complaints that OFCOM has received. For more information visit OFCOM on http://www.ofcom.org.uk/media/news/2009/9/nr_20090916
Dealer Launch
Comms Group have launched their dealer channel network, supplying the UK on a next day basis. A business partner with Avaya, Comms Group have invested in a dedicated sales team aimed at targeting the Refurbished and "As New" supply chain. With an aggresive pricing strategy the directors aim to make a significant dent in the buoyant market. To find out more information and to take advantage of the leading pricing and service levels please call the sales office now on 0844 848 81 44
