IT and e-Commerce
The South West Development Commission works with key groups to make technology more accessible to business and the community in the South West.
VoIP
VoIP (Voice over internet protocol) is technology which allows telephone calls to be made over broadband internet services instead of the traditional fixed line telephone system. This technology has the potential to save businesses significant amounts on their telephone bill.
The Commission, together with the City of Bunbury and Connect South West, wants to help customers better understand the technology. It is proposed that an information day will be held in Bunbury covering the benefits and constraints of VoIP. This will be followed by a series of free workshops throughout the South West. The information day is proposed for 25 October 2006. For more information contact Ashley Clements on 9792 2000.
Infrastructure Study
The South West Development Commission will soon be assessing the region's existing telecommunications to identify deficiencies and opportunities. The SWDC is keen to ensure the South West has the telecommunications infrastructure in place to take advantage of current and future developments in online technology.
The growth in VoIP and other convergence technologies such as video on demand has further focused the need for universal access to broadband. Broadband will be the main focus of the study, but deficiencies in mobile coverage will also be considered, particularly given the proposed roll out of 3G mobile services. Work will start on the study later this year.