Business publication offers IT makeover prize

“An effective and efficient IT system is crucial to any business's sustained success,” says publisher and editor Ryk van Niekerk. “This coveted prize promises to boost the winning Gauteng-based business to become a technology leader in its field.”

The comprehensive prize includes the following key elements:

• new work stations equipped with computers;
  
• printers;
  
• wireless networking routers;
  
• servers;
  
• business and office software;
  
• comprehensive training for staff members to fully use the software;
  
• broadband Internet access;
  
• a new or redesigned website with eCommerce capabilities;
  
• transactional solutions to make it easier for customers to interact with the business;
  
• a bulk Internet messaging tool;
  
• VoIP services (if relevant); and
  
• eBilling facilities.

“As there is no one-size-fits-all-businesses solution, the makeover will be tailored to suit the needs of that particular business,” says Ryk. “An editorial section highlighting each element of the ideal IT infrastructure will be published in Gauteng Business to illustrate to business owners the main advantages and pitfalls.”

To qualify, business owners need to buy five specific editions of Gauteng Business for June and July 2007, answer the easy multiple choice questions and send in the entry form. Gauteng Business and representatives of the competition's sponsors will compile a shortlist to identify the business that needs the make-over the most.

The five editions in question are 5 and 19 June, and 3, 17 and 31 July.