Warsaw, Kraków, July 15, 2004 - Cisco Systems, the worldwide leader in networking for the internet, and NextiraOne, a worldwide supplier of integrated networking solutions and services today announced the completion of an integrated Cisco Internet Protocol (IP) Communications system at the Sheraton Krakow Hotel.
One of the most sophisticated networks of its kind in the hotel business, it enables both improved customer service and improved efficiencies in hotel management. It includes Internet, data and voice access for all guests and staff at the hotel and includes more than 600 IP telephone handsets and wireless connectivity.
NextiraOne based the solution on Cisco CallManager call processing servers and software and the Nevotek V/IP Suite Server which provides with specific functionality necessary for hotel applications.
All the 232 hotel rooms are equipped with Cisco 7970 IP telephones with large color LCD monitors and touch screens. As well as accessing the Internet, this allows guests to:
- Send e-mails
- Use voice mail
- Read text messages sent by hotel reception
- Check hotel account, including telephone calls and mini-bar charges
- Book meeting rooms
- Access hotel information services such as exchange rates, city guide, hotel facilities, or weather forecast.
Through the Nevotek V/IP Suite application NextiraOne has integrated the IP telephony system with the hotel's Property Management System. This allows staff to use the network for time keeping, guest orders, define room service status, or reporting mini bar stock levels.
"Today's business travellers expect more than just a comfortable hotel room - they want to be able to work efficiently through advanced communications that link them to the outside world," said Warwick Gunning, General Manager, Sheraton Krakow Hotel. "The Cisco system implemented by NextiraOne enables us to deliver improved customer service as well as increasing efficiencies by linking directly to our internal management systems, directly impacting our profitability. I am also pleased to announce that this application was awarded during the International Telecommunications Day celebrations as a pioneering solution by the Ministry of infrastructure."
"By installing this system, the Sheraton Krakow is reaping the benefits of a multiservice, IP-based network, "said Igor Sikorski, market development manager for Eastern Europe at Cisco Systems. "The single network easily integrates voice with the hotel's infrastructure, increasing staff productivity and lowering service costs. The use of IP telephony integrated with the hotel's management systems at the Sheraton Krakow Hotel is an excellent example of this trend."
"The Sheraton Krakow network is one of the most advanced in Europe," said Marek Kobielski, vice president, NextiraOne, Central Europe. "NextiraOne is uniquely positioned to implement successful convergence solutions. Our deployment of one of the most sophisticated networks of its kind in the hospitality sector demonstrates an unbeatable depth of skills and experience in the integration of the data, voice and application technologies that are critical to convergence. We are delighted to have completed this project working with Cisco and Nevotek."
About Cisco IP Communications
Cisco IP Communications is a comprehensive system of enterprise-class solutions including IP telephony, unified communications, rich media IP audio and videoconferencing, IP video broadcasting and customer contact solutions that take advantage of customers' existing Cisco IP infrastructure to deliver new converged applications. More information about Cisco IP Communications is available at: http://newsroom.cisco.com/dlls/innovators/VoIP/index.html
About Cisco Systems
Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCO), the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, this year celebrates 20 years of commitment to technology innovation, industry leadership and corporate social responsibility. Information on Cisco can be found at http://www.cisco.com.
About NextiraOne
Headquartered in Paris and Houston, NextiraOne is a leading global provider of integrated enterprise network solutions and services that enable effective, reliable business communications. We cover everything from planning and design to the implementation, support and management of voice, data and converged communications networks. We provide best-in-class technologies from leading partners including Alcatel, Cisco Systems, Genesys and Nortel Networks. And we offer consultation and solutions development ranging from contact centre applications to network infrastructure outsourcing. Discover more at www.nextiraone.com. NextiraOne is owned by Platinum Equity (www.platinumequity.com), a global acquisition firm specializing in the strategic operation of mission-critical services and solutions businesses according to a unique M&A&OSM model of value creation.
About Nevotek
Nevotek was founded in 2001 as a new-age company dedicated to providing dynamic value-added business communications solutions.
A critical aspect of Nevotek's product line is the commitment to use the advanced technology of the highly programmable Internet Protocol Telephony (IPT) platform provided by Cisco Systems. Another important aspect of Nevotek applications is Nevotek's dedication to the international standards which govern the emerging Voice over IP (VoIP) industry.
About Starwood Hotels & Resorts
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 740 properties in more than 80 countries and 110,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. With internationally renowned brands, Starwood is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts including: St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Sheraton, Westin, Four Points by Sheraton, W brands, as well as Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwood.com/pressclub
