Datasouth

IT grows as firms fight cost

Monday, 25 August 2008 Originally published by the Christchurch Press.

Christchurch technology company Datasouth is in growth mode as more businesses look to technology to help cut costs.

Datasouth general manager Craig Gerken said that, with New Zealand in a downturn, more companies were seeking ways to improve efficiency, and technology could be the answer.

The privately owned company designs networks and software, and provides a consultation service.

Its clients range from some with as few as 10 staff, to government organisations in New Zealand and Australia with more than 3500 computers.

Datasouth was the only company to be listed as a finalist in five categories at the 2008 New Zealand Microsoft Partner Awards. It went on to win one of those categories.

Gerken said not many people understood how technology could be used to improve a business.

Most companies had computers with email and internet capabilities, but those features did not necessarily help grow a business.

Datasouth was hoping to capitalise on the increasing interest in technology.

“We have the capability to continue to grow. There are really good opportunities currently in the marketplace. It's about us getting out there, looking at the opportunities and talking to those clients.”, comments Craig Gerken, Datasouth General Manager.

Datasouth was founded in 1993 by Gavin Bennett, who remains the owner and managing director.

In 2001, it had 15 staff. Now it has 50 with room to employ more after moving to new premises in March this year.