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Arizona Awards Accenture Contract for Statewide Telecommunications InfrastructurePHOENIX --(Business Wire)-- April 4, 2005 -- The Arizona Department of Administration has awarded Accenture (NYSE:ACN) a contract to assist the state in the transformation of its telecommunications capabilities to next-generation converged network technologies, including voice over Internet protocol (VoIP). The contract, which also calls for Accenture to provide management services for the telecommunications systems for all executive branch agencies of the Arizona State government on an outsourced basis, is valued at $98 million over five years. Under the broad program, Accenture will work closely with the State of Arizona to redefine its statewide telecommunications enterprise in order to improve standard telecommunications security, services and service level agreements at all of the state's executive branch locations. The program is notable for its focus on improved enterprise business results and the use of metrics and ongoing measurement to assess program results and achievements. "We are very pleased to be working with Accenture on this initiative based on its extensive expertise in integration and transition of telecommunications," said Andre Briere, Director of the Telecommunications Program Office of the Arizona Department of Administration. "The realization of this telecommunications project will result in improved services and efficiencies in operations of State government in Arizona." "Arizona's decision to transform its telecommunications enterprise is a bold step that is intended to enable the state to improve service quality and implement new technology solutions while saving taxpayers money," said David Ross, managing partner of Accenture's State & Local Government client group. "The management and technology improvements the state desires can be implemented for about the same cost as what the state currently spends for its legacy telecommunications services. This represents significant value to Arizona state government and taxpayers." The program, designed to help the state automate and optimize most telecommunications-related management processes, includes the development and support of: a new program governance structure; a new auditable Web-based billing system; annual program operating and performance measurement plans; and other capabilities to support the migration toward a statewide next-generation converged telecommunications network. It is estimated that approximately 22,000 old and obsolete telephones will be replaced over the five-year contract term. Subcontractors on the project include Phoenix-based Calence and NextiraOne. The telecommunications providers who will supply regulated and non-regulated carrier services will be selected at a later date. About Accenture Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company. Committed to delivering innovation, Accenture collaborates with its clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. With deep industry and business process expertise, broad global resources and a proven track record, Accenture can mobilize the right people, skills and technologies to help clients improve their performance. With more than 100,000 people in 48 countries, the company generated net revenues of US$13.67 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2004. Its home page is www.accenture.com. |
