Quarterly Newsletter July - September 2008

In this Issue

Introducing AastraLink Pro

Spotlight on the Floral Industry

Success Story: Zeidler's Flowers, Gardens & Gifts

Alternate Access Celebrates Milestones

Holiday Closings

Introducing AastraLink Pro

As Alternate Access turns 15, its technologically-savvy staff continues to identify innovative and cutting-edge product offerings that will meet each customer’s needs. The addition of the AastraLink Pro – Model 160 to its product offerings is no exception. This phone system allows Alternate Access to provide small and start-up businesses with an entry-level and economical introduction to Voice over Internet Protocol technology. Businesses with as few as three employees can take advantage of this affordable and smart system. The first reseller of AastraLink Pro in North Carolina, Alternate Access is excited to introduce this product to the small-business community. Learn more about AastraLink Pro 160.

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Spotlight on the Floral Industry

Competition within the florist industry is on the rise, so today’s florist must constantly look for ways to gain a competitive edge – especially where customer service is concerned. The telephone continues to be the primary order-taking source for florists. If your phone system is not working to improve call volume, staff efficiency, and your customers’ experience, you need to consider a Voice over Internet Protocol [VoIP] phone system from Alternate Access. Our florist solutions combine VoIP technology with call center capabilities and florist specific industry knowledge and applications to increase order taking capacity, save operations costs and maintain customer loyalty.

For example, Alternate Access can integrate VoIP phone systems with a florist’s point of sale accounting software. When the call center agent takes the call, the customer’s name and order history are displayed on the desktop computer screen – enabling agents to provide a customized, more efficient customer experience.

“Integrating TeleVantage with our accounting system has had a significant impact on how well we treat our customers,” said Bill Sheffield, president of The Sheffield’s Ashland Addison Florist. “We create a huge impression when a customer calls about a previously placed order and all the information is readily available on the agent’s screen. Customers appreciate this high level of service and they place repeat orders because of it!”

Donn K. Flipse, director of operations at Field of Flowers is impressed with the positive impact their phone system had on call volume. He commented, “Our call volume is up over 20% for the same period a year ago. We can take more calls with fewer associates, and maintain higher levels of service to our customers."

Our VoIP solutions have also helped florists reduce operations costs in myriad ways, such as seamlessly linking branch stores. Tipton & Hurst Florist recognized such savings. Howard Hurst, Tipton & Hurst CEO, recalls, “Branch stores can log into the call center, giving the appearance of one central call center…it immediately saved us [personnel costs of] $20,000 to $30,000 per year.”
 

Learn more about VoIP and other communication solutions for the floral industry and how they can help increase efficiency and productivity, enhance customer service and reduce operational costs.

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Success Story: Zeidler's Flowers, Gardens & Gifts

Learn how a VoIP communications solution from Alternate Access helped Zeidler’s Flowers, Gardens & Gifts improve customer service and sales by centralizing call center operations.

Read their story here.

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Alternate Access Celebrates Milestones

Congratulations to Alternate Access for recently being ranked as one of the Top 100 Small Businesses in North Carolina by Business Leader magazine. The ranking comes on the heels the company's 15th anniversary celebration on June 9. 

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Holiday Closings

Friday July 4, 2008

Monday September 1, 2008

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