The South African Clothing & Textile Workers Union (SACTWU) has contracted Ultra Computer Technologies, a division of IT group Softline, to install an information network linking the union`s branches nationally. The deal described by Softline CEO Ivan Epstein as "significant for Ultra Technologies" comprises the installation of a complex wide area network incorporating the latest voice over data technology. Softline System Technologies, the Softline Group`s R&D arm, is developing application software customised for the SACTWU installation, while Ultra Technologies will design and install the network. "The system will include a Compaq Proliant 3000 File Server running RAID 5 Architecture and using Microsoft Back Office," says Adrian Boshoff. "We are developing applications using SQL Server as the database engine". The installation will be in three phases scheduled for completion by the end of June 1998. The first phase will be the Durban based head office, the second the regional offices in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town and finally, we shall link all the branch offices - a total of some twenty sites" says Ultra Technologies director Adrian Boshoff. Established over ten years ago with branches in the major centres and one of only five Microsoft OEM distributors in the country, and a Microsoft Solution Provider, Ultra Technologies has the high level of technical skills and expertise essential to undertake the SACTWU project. Mohammed Ahmed, SACTWU`s financial director, sees the network having major benefits for the union and its members. "A trade union relies heavily on employers to collect most of its funding and tracking this process is often fraught with difficulties. The networking system will largely overcome this. "Through our association with Unibank via HCI`s 30% holding, we can ensure that member`s savings are deposited, are secure and where relevant, that interest is earned" says Mohammed Ahmed. Another key spin off is likely to be felt in the area of members` borrowings particularly housing loans. Unfortunately, the public sector`s housing strategies are inadequate and our members often find it difficult to participate in private sector funding given the banks` and building societies` harsh security requirements. This often puts them at the mercy of loan sharks" says Ahmed. "Members` provident funds will eventually be monitored by the networking system, ensuring easy access to the relevant information. "Again utilising the Unibank link and deductions from members, SACTWU can establish the necessary security to back-up members` bonds or other lending applications". Mohammed sees the provision of bursaries to members` of their families as yet another important benefit. "Small deductions of as little as eleven cents a week are made from members. "The accumulated funds, doubled by a matching contribution from SACTWU, enables us to fund non-repayable bursaries of up to 50% of the educational costs for over 3000 applications we receive every year. "The network will enable us to develop a database of all bursary recipients and to help us find employment for other students" says Mohammed Ahmed.
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