Optus Debuts marketplace of cloud apps for SMBs in Australia

Optus SMB is continuing to ramp up small to medium business services by introducing a marketplace of cloud software applications and a specialist 24-hour IT support line to help customers make the most out of their apps.

Optus Smart Shop is designed to make running a small business easier by providing technical support and apps that reduce time consuming tasks such as creating invoices, managing expenses or providing access to business documents from a mobile device or tablet.

Matthew Ball, Head of Optus SMB said, “We know that often small business operators invest considerable sums into IT infrastructure and IT support services.

“Optus Smart Shop is designed from the ground up to gather a comprehensive suite of business software applications to more cost effectively meet the needs of Australian small business.”

According to Ball, technology can be challenging for SMBs that are not tech savvy, so providing tailored technology support and solutions is increasingly important.

“To help SMB operators, we have created a support service for the new Optus Smart Shop marketplace so customers can select and set-up apps and programs to improve business efficiency in order to spend their time doing other things.”

Customers only pay for the apps and support levels they select and can include more comprehensive support services as their business grows.

“Whether business operators are on-the-go or doing a late night accounting catch-up, Optus Smart Shop helps small businesses operate applications like IT professionals to get the most out of their programs.”

“Customers tailor their support services to the needs of their business, whether they need initial migration and set-up of services, comprehensive webinar training for their staff or ongoing support.”

Optus SMB recently announced the completion of 126 new small business specialist stores, a dedicated Adelaide-based SMB call centre team, and 24/7 Live Chat for small and medium business customers. In addition Optus SMB has recently received a coveted Canstar Blue customer satisfaction award for the third year in a row for SMB mobile services, winning the Small Business Mobile Phone Provider of the Year.

Optus SMB has partnered with cloud services marketplace provider BCSG to provide Optus Smart Shop and specialist Cloud IT support provider Cloud Flow to assist users with technical support, application feature support regardless of user IT knowledge such as help with Excel formulae, PowerPoint presentations or just to get most from their applications.

The Optus Smart Shop provides a range of cloud based apps and services for small business owners including:
•Microsoft Office 365. Access to all the Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook securely online. Includes Skype for Business.
•Microsoft SharePoint. Access content on-the-go. It’s like having your company’s intranet in your pocket.
•Access to protection tools that identify suspect files, emails, websites and social media for malware, intrusion and virus dangers.
•Sage One. Keep track of money going in and out of your business and monitor at a glance how your business is performing financially.
•Xpenditure. Say goodbye to manual data entry and capture receipts by simply taking a picture with your phone.
•MozyPro. Ensures you never lose critical business files again by backing them up to the MozyPro secure servers.
•PlanHQ. Access all the help you need creating each section of your business plan, with detailed guides and sample plans to map your vision for your business.
•Act! Cloud. Merge all your contacts in one place, drawing information from multiple sources so you know who is who.
•Cloud Flow. Optus’ key SMB ICT service partner and the provider of Small Business App Support and Setup & Configuration services.