What does FIEGE do?
FIEGE is a fifth-generation family-owned company. As a contract logistics provider, we optimize processes for our customers across all areas of their value chain and develop comprehensive customer solutions. In total, we have approximately 150,000 employees working for us across 15 countries and more than 150 locations.
Why did you switch to a new telephony solution?
Our phone system dated back to the year 2000—so it was very old—and was no longer being maintained. As a result, we had to resolve all issues in-house, which led to high costs. It was therefore high time for us to switch to a new system.
Which solution did you choose, and why that one in particular?
In collaboration with our installation partner Bouygues, we issued a request for proposals and evaluated various solutions and their associated terms and conditions. Bouygues had already been assisting us with the maintenance of our old phone system and therefore understands our requirements very well. In the end, the 3CX solution with peoplefone emerged as the winner.
How did the transition go?
The project began at the start of the year with the evaluation of the hardware. We started implementation in March. First, we migrated the eight-person customs department in Basel. This gave us the opportunity to gain initial experience. We then continued the rollout at a larger location, in Oftringen. The remaining locations were also connected to the new system in phases. We completed the project in June.
What were the challenges?
We faced many unknowns because very little had been documented in the past. It was therefore a huge challenge for us to correctly assign all the numbers and connections so that we wouldn’t have the wrong ones disconnected. We had to have everything measured. peoplefone supported us in this process.
How was the collaboration with the peoplefone partner Bouygues?
The collaboration was great; everything went smoothly—even better than expected. This is still true today. We can always turn to Bouygues whenever we need support. The technician assigned to us is always available and, in direct consultation with peoplefone, consistently finds suitable solutions in no time at all.
How satisfied are you with the new solution?
I’m almost completely satisfied. The solution was enthusiastically received by our employees and offers numerous possibilities. There are still a few teething problems here and there. However, these are largely related to the physical locations. For example, the connection in the warehouse or the basement isn’t yet optimal in some areas. But that actually has nothing to do with the 3CX solution. We’re working with Bouygues to find solutions for these issues.
What’s the biggest difference compared to the previous solution?
Definitely the flexibility the solution offers. Our employees can use the solution to make calls both on the landline and on their cell phones. Plus, 3CX is very easy to manage. Thanks to the software, we can relocate our systems as needed without having to reconfigure anything. New users can also be added in the blink of an eye. The solution’s ease of management thus saves us not only time but also costs.
From an interview with Mr. Andrea Gardini, CTO, FIEGE Logistics
; installed by Bouygues E&S InTec Schweiz AG, Kloten