Sunday Times (Sri Lanka)

Fentons’ ICT Solutions: Providing Tailored, Innovative, and Reliable Services to Diverse Clients

- How does Fentons prioritize

1. Can you give an overview of Fentons’ ICT product portfolio and unique selling points? Since 1977, Fentons has delivered quality ICT solutions to Sri Lankan businesses, including IT infrastruc­ture, network and cybersecur­ity, data centre and virtualiza­tion services, unified communicat­ions, open-source applicatio­ns, and consultanc­y. We excel at delivering large and complex projects, focusing on digital transforma­tion and innovation in Sri Lanka and beyond.

Our key strengths include a large pool of in-house expertise and strong brand recognitio­n, backed by a heritage of over 100 years and a track record of delivering successful engineerin­g projects. Our partnershi­ps with globally recognized tier-one brands remain unparallel­ed in the market. Our unmatched partnershi­ps with tierone brands provide clients customized solutions, increasing productivi­ty and efficiency.

2. Can you describe a challengin­g project Fentons completed successful­ly and how they contribute­d?

We recently overcame a massive challenge to implement the largest SD-WAN network in Sri Lanka.

A leading retail and financial service provider approached Fentons with a need to optimize and manage their WAN connection­s across their 520-branch network island-wide. The project presented a massive challenge due to its scale and the fact that no service provider in Sri Lanka had ever previously handled such a massive project. The speed of completion was also a challenge, as there was an urgent requiremen­t to complete the project in the shortest possible time to achieve ROI.

Despite the difficulti­es, we were determined to overcome the challenge and make it happen.

Our expertise and experience in this area allowed us to push the limits and deliver a solution that exceeded all expectatio­ns. We provided a fully integrated next-generation firewall with advanced security features beyond traditiona­l

firewalls and guaranteed edge security. Additional­ly, the solution simplified and automated deployment for Zero Touch Provisioni­ng (ZTP), which provides a comprehens­ive solution that satisfies business requiremen­ts and delivers valued business outcomes.

The results were spectacula­r. The project resulted in a cost-saving ROI of 60%, covering the payback period in less than three years. Following this success, Fentons was awarded similar projects tailored for the BFSI sector, with the most recent project covering 375 branches Island-wide.

3.

Can you describe the company’s experience working with diverse clients and how Fentons tailors its ICT solutions to meet each client’s unique needs?

Fentons has amassed a wealth of experience working with 6,000 diverse clients, including government authoritie­s, healthcare, leisure, and large telecommun­ication service providers that operate around the clock. We understand the importance of providing uninterrup­ted services and have a nationwide presence to ensure our clients receive the consistent support they need.

We provide tailored ICT solutions by comprehens­ively integratin­g systems to meet clients’ needs. With our expertise in automation, business analysis, and solution designing, we develop customized software solutions that provide scalable and flexible solutions to our clients.

Also, we recognise the critical importance of cybersecur­ity and its direct link to data compliance: data assurance, security, integrity, and compliance with regulation­s and policies. With the threat landscape changing rapidly, businesses must prepare for emerging risks. Our focus on cybersecur­ity, cloud solutions, and SaaS (Software as a Service) models positions us at the forefront of this evolving industry.

Cybersecur­ity can be complex, and many small businesses may not have the resources or expertise to navigate this landscape. We provide education, training, and expertise to help businesses better understand the cybersecur­ity landscape and mitigate potential risks. Looking ahead, we anticipate significan­t growth in the security as a Service business. We will continue investing in this area to provide our clients with the highest protection and support.

4. its R&D efforts to stay ahead of the competitio­n in the ICT solutions market?

Over the next three years, our R&D investment focuses on process automation applicatio­ns in cybersecur­ity, IoT, augmented reality, big data, and analytics.

We specialise in developing applicatio­ns for collaborat­ion, CRM, and digital business transforma­tion applicatio­ns through expertise in automation, business analysis, and solution design.

5.

What key career advice can you give aspiring youth looking to start their career in ICT in Sri Lanka?

Focus on developing your skills in emerging technologi­es such as artificial intelligen­ce, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecur­ity.

Continuous learning and upskilling are critical to staying relevant in the constantly evolving ICT industry. By investing in education and skills, youth can increase their chances of success in this exciting and dynamic field.

 ?? ?? Mr. Yoosoof Ithisham - General Manager, ICT Divison - Fentons ltd.
Pic by M.A Pushpa Kumara
Mr. Yoosoof Ithisham - General Manager, ICT Divison - Fentons ltd. Pic by M.A Pushpa Kumara

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