Lukewarm state of triple play in SA
Given the worldwide interest in triple play, it is interesting that growth of this technology breakthrough is lagging in South Africa.
Paul Luff, country manager SMC Networks (image: SMC Networks)
It should come as no surprise that triple play has emerged so strongly on the global stage. Network environments, both private and within commerce, have been adapted to leverage off this ability to manage and apply multimedia.
It has significance in the home network and for businesses wishing to incorporate this into their services/ offerings.
In the wake of an increase in significance of cloud computing, virtualisation and unified communications, triple play has become more relevant to the maturity of networks.
Applications, systems and solutions are being developed with triple play in mind – it represents a new dynamic and has a number of advantages, including cost efficiency, stability and improved VoIP.
The local market is aware of these advantages, but the staggered realisation of these benefits for end users has left a cloud of scepticism hovering over triple play. This has a domino effect – with every technology innovation, there are additional questions.
Realistically, South Africa is an emerging market that is still finding its feet in terms of triple play application in the home and in the business. In Europe this technology represents a primary means of VoIP/ data/ Internet access at home.
However, the most serious challenge to the growth of triple play locally is the need to have all parties work together.
A multitude of skills are required to make this technology work and meet unique requirements in the South African market.
We also have several parties to do the installation to make the triple play function effective and successful. It calls for the combined efforts of content providers, the cooperation of a service provider and businesses that understand VoIP, along with a company that does full installation.
Triple play is influencing gated communities, including easy installation, finance and maintenance.
The implication of this delayed take-up of triple play technology in South Africa is the elimination of unscrupulous service providers and the survival of genuine, credible businesses.
Successful adoption and integration of triple play technology is a matter of having the right skills sets on board. This means looking out for the right service provider and acquiring an edge in the market.
Paul Luff, country manager SMC Networks
