PLDT picks EMC data infrastructure
Giant telecom firm Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) has selected EMC Corp. solutions to scale up its data storage capacity, as well as strengthen its information protection and disaster recovery capabilities to support data provisioning and customer billing services.
Currently, EMC is deploying the EMC CLARiiON CX4, a mid-range networked storage system that features a next-generation architecture specifically optimized for virtual server environments and designed to incorporate the latest technologies in drives, connectivity, processing power, thin provisioning and security.
Wilma Cruz, CIO of PLDT and Smart Communications Group., said that a unified storage and disaster recovery infrastructure has become necessary. She said they called on EMC to help PLDT consolidate its storage infrastructure, provision less, and extend the shelf life of the company’s technology investments.
"Information traffic continues to grow regardless of the prevailing economic conditions," said Cruz. "With three principle business groups engaged in fixed line, wireless, and information and communications technologies, we have a huge responsibility in providing uninterrupted and efficient services to subscribers in all our customer interface aspects.
"Furthermore, it is important to cut cost levels and maximize our hefty investments in fibre optic, fixed line, cellular and satellite networks across the country," she added
Virtual provisioning technology enables PLDT to provision less. Rather than buying additional storage capacity upfront, the company can reduce or defer initial capacity requirements and save on acquisition and energy costs by running systems at higher utilization rates. Additional capacity can be added as required without disrupting applications.
PLDT is also better able to leverage its investment through data-in-place upgrades that allow swapping of storage processors and systems upgrades without having to replace any of the hard drives, disk array enclosures and system software.
In addition, the UltraFlex technology permits adding on next-generation network technology like the 8-gigabit/second fiber channel or the 10-gigabit/second iSCSI without having to purchase an entire new system or moving to a new network technology.
Ronnie Latinazo, country manager of EMC Philippines said, "PLDT is one of the most forward-thinking Philippine companies to set the benchmark for a sound corporate strategy in information infrastructure. We’re happy that we’re on this journey together, and we stand committed to help PLDT achieve its business priorities with EMC’s comprehensive, end-to-end midrange products and solutions." - Myla Iglesias