Intelligent CIO Africa Issue 65 | Page 14

NEWS

Cisco technology facilitates effortless hybrid work in South Africa

Almost 95 % of South African employees surveyed in the latest Cisco Global Hybrid Work Study want to work either in a hybrid or fully remote work way .

To assist organisations in facilitating such an enabling environment , Cisco has announced the Webex Room Bar and Cisco Desk Camera 1080p solutions as well as introduced new enhancements to Webex software .
“ Employees are subject to spending long hours in front of their computers and with that , comes various downsides .
Mental health has become a critical issue in South Africa . If we can create technologies that make the experience of hybrid work less stressful , we need to invest fully in this ,” said Conrad Steyn , CTO , Cisco South Africa , said . “ The Cisco Global Hybrid Work Study has highlighted how more than 86 % of South African respondents believe that hybrid and remote work have improved all aspects of their wellbeing . Technology plays a critical role in how teams communicate in this environment . And when it comes to collaboration , the Cisco and Webex solutions work in the exact ways you do , wherever and however you work .”
At home , at the office , or on-the-go , each workspace brings with it a unique set of challenges . In the study , background noise , poor sound , and video quality are some of the most significant video meeting frustrations leading to fatigue .

Smollan acquires Argility Technology Group

The Argility Technology Group ( ATG ) has announced an exciting business development as it becomes part of global enterprise – the Smollan Group – an intelligent commerce solutions business , driving sustainable growth and operational excellence . Smollan has acquired ATG from Capital Eye Investments – a private equity and venture capital company that invests in technology driven businesses with a particular focus on emerging markets .

James Collett , Chief Data Officer , Smollan , said : “ ATG joining the Smollan Group is a significant step forward in our strategy to expand our technology and data offering within retail and supply chain . We are extremely excited about the synergies which exist between the businesses , and as a leading global commerce solution company , we will be looking to grow the ATG footprint internationally . An aligned and strong culture is always foundational to creating a successful partnership , and in ATG and its people , we believe that we have found just that . We look forward to welcoming ATG into the Smollan family .”
Marko Salic , CEO , ATG , said : “ ATG is immensely excited about this new phase in the history of the group . Over the past five years , we have made notable strategic investments in the acquisition of companies that have served to augment our goal of partnering with retail and supply chain organisations to help them digitise and transition into industry 4.0 .”
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