The new platform was installed in May 2004 to replace BT’s earlier Type 27 System. Capable of supporting up to 64 users, it will initially be used by 33 commodities traders at the company’s Tokyo office. It provides users with the same high functionality as BT’s larger switches, at a much lower cost. The new equipment needs little additional space, making it ideal for smaller trading floors and satellite offices of larger financial institutions. Since its launch in 2003, BT has sold 122 ITS p31 switches to customers across 29 countries. Of these, 27 are located in the Asia Pacific Region.
Minoru Ikeda, general manager, Commodity Trading & Risk Management Division, Mitsui & Co., Ltd., said: "The technology we choose must be proven; it needs to keep up with the often fast-paced commodities markets; and it has to evolve easily with our needs. BT has provided us with the opportunity to double the size of our trading floor, without the need to upgrade our voice trading technology further. We have been a BT customer since 1990, and are consistently impressed by BT’s approach and level of service. This latest installation was completed in just one week, with no disruption for users."
The technology runs on BT’s latest ITS Release 15 software, delivering full remote configuration, administration, monitoring and diagnostics. BT’s IP ready pV405Hi turrets, designed specifically for the busy trading floor; and ITS pVs4i and pVs8i speakers, providing four or eight audio channels, are also being used.
Mick Williams, general manager, Japan & Korea, Financial Services, BT Consulting and Systems Integration said: "Cost-effective communication increases productivity and improves customer service. Mitsui can now grow its business without spending extra money or dedicating a large amount of space for equipment - critical in a city like Tokyo where office space is at a premium."
