Konica Minolta Chooses AT&T Network to Integrate Businesses

Konica Minolta Chooses AT&T Network to Integrate Businesses $2.7 million contract with AT&T provides enhanced platform for business operations RAMSEY, N.J., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A. Inc. (Konica Minolta) has awarded AT&T a $2.7 million contract to integrate the corporate networks that will serve U.S.-based entities created as a result of the merger of Konica Business Technologies and Minolta Corp. Developer of the powerful "bizhub" brand of products, Konica Minolta is the digital imaging solution division of Tokyo-based parent company Konica Minolta Holdings Inc. AT&T will provide an Internet Protocol Virtual Private Network (IP VPN) that integrates 92 locations across the United States on a secure platform offering traffic prioritization, increased bandwidth and a migration path to Voice over IP (VoIP) services. The solution offers increased capabilities at an estimated annual cost savings of approximately 20 percent. Konica Minolta warehouse employees will input orders and shipping requests using the secure network, while others in the company will use it for Web-based training, technical support tools, product announcements and other functions. In addition to providing the platform for these key business applications, the VPN helps Konica Minolta to ensure business continuity. Under the contract, AT&T also provides local and long-distance voice services formerly provided by MCI and Sprint. "Our network is central to our business, and with AT&T, we have a very solid networking environment," said Cathleen Lilli, director of infrastructure services, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A. Inc. "AT&T's VPN offers unmatched security, flexibility and efficiency. We can measure its success in the reduced number of complaints from internal customers, which have been reduced significantly." About AT&T For more than 125 years, AT&T (NYSE "T") has been known for unparalleled quality and reliability in communications. Backed by the research and development capabilities of AT&T Labs, the company is a global leader in local, long distance, Internet and transaction-based voice and data services. About Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc., offers a broad range of multifunctional digital imaging solutions inspired by its bizhub(TM) brand of powerful solutions that serve as the central resource for document scanning, in-house printing, copying, faxing and electronic archiving and distribution. From high-quality color and monochrome bizhub systems for workgroups and small offices, to advanced high-volume bizhub PRO(TM) production printing systems for large corporations and print-for-pay services, Konica Minolta is leading the industry toward integrated, networked hardware/software solutions that are more simple, reliable, and cost-effective. Complementing its bizhub solutions, Konica Minolta also offers desktop laser printers, microform digital imaging systems, wide-format printers and scanning systems for specialized applications. Headquartered in Ramsey, New Jersey, Konica Minolta delivers expert professional services and experienced, responsive client support, in addition to the world-class service provided through its extensive network of direct sales offices, authorized dealers, resellers and distribution partners in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America and South America. For more information, please visit Konica Minolta at http://www.kmbs.konicaminolta.us/ All terms, product and company names used in this document may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners, and are hereby acknowledged. (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991018/ATT ) Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991018/ATT Source: AT&T CONTACT: Karyn Price of AT&T, +1-609-397-4880, ext. 204, karynprice@att.com Web site: http://www.att.com/ http://www.kmbs.konicaminolta.us/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment