OPTUS SIGNS IP DEAL WITH JONES LANG LASALLE

Optus has signed a multi-million dollar whole of business deal with Jones Lang LaSalle, the global real estate advisor and investment management company, to provide data network communications over two years.

Optus will provide a fully managed IP VPN (Virtual Private Network) service, OPI Direct Plus, connecting Jones Lang LaSalle offices in 24 markets, across 12 countries in the Asia Pacific.

The deal also includes NetAccess to enable Jones Lang LaSalle's 4,600 staff to connect to the internet via the Optus IP network.

Optus' intelligent IP network includes innovative labelling technology, Multiple Protocol Layer Switching (MPLS), to prioritise network traffic.

Gregg May, Asia Pacific Infrastructure Manager of Jones Lang LaSalle, said the network allows it to prioritise time sensitive or business critical data over non-urgent data.

"We can now tag data, applications, or traffic between specific sites ensuring intensive email and intranet activity does not impact the performance of our in-house property management application. This makes it easy to use and enhances the service we provide our clients," Mr May said.

For Jones Lang LaSalle, the implementation of an Optus IP VPN is also the foundation for future business services.

"The range of Optus services also allows us to look into technologies such as WiFi and shared revenue opportunities for our property owners," Mr May said

With a common IP network connecting all staff in all markets, the Optus IP VPN also provides the means to expand the network for voice.

"Consolidating voice and data over the same IP network is something we are considering," Mr May said.

Today's announcement follows the decision by Jones Lang LaSalle to move its entire telecommunication services to Optus. The combined communications business is worth approximately $3 million to Optus per annum.

John Simon, Director Optus Business, said the Jones Lang LaSalle win reflects Optus' regional strength.

"As part of the SingTel network, Optus has an unmatched network footprint in Asia. For global operations such as Jones Lang LaSalle, this reduces the cost and complexity in deploying and managing applications in multiple markets."

For more information:
Luisa Ford
Optus Corporate Affairs
Tel: (02) 9342 5045
Mob: 0411 024 104