Since 2000, NexLabs Pte Ltd has grown from strength to strength from an information management solutions provider to a leading Singapore IT solutions company. NexLabs now works with technology powerhouse Cisco to provide IP telephony solutions and its clients range from educational institutions like Republic Polytechnic to legal firms like Allen and Gledhill.
The partnership started when NexLabs was approached by Cisco to explore the possibility of incorporating their solutions as part of Cisco's IP telephony offerings. Cisco wanted their IP-enabled phones to do more than just voice traffic. Using Nexlab's solutions, the phones can now be used to make public announcements, send text messages, make IDD calls and even convey real-time information such as the weather, news and traffic announcements. This partnership opened up a new world of possibilities and increased revenue opportunities for NextLab.
One of the factors that attracted NextLab to IDA's Infocomm Local Industry Upgrading Program (iLIUP) was the competitive edge it would gain over its competitors.
"Partnership with Cisco offered us a good opportunity for technology transfer," said Goh Kheng Wee, Director at NexLabs. "Cisco is traditionally strong in networking and IP telephony so our move into this arena was well supported by them."
The close working relationship also extends overseas. NexLabs has worked closely with Cisco partners to deliver IP telephony solutions for large MNC clients like Proton in Malaysia. "Without our partnership with Cisco, it would be impossible for us to talk to these companies and showcase our technology solutions," Goh said.
This is especially important to NexLabs as the Singapore market is relatively small and it recognises that if it wishes to expand the company, it needs to look overseas. "By working with MNCs who have the experience and contacts in overseas markets, we only need to concentrate on what we do best and provide them with the solutions needed," Goh explained.
Getting this far is a testament to Nexlabs' willingness to adapt and change. "When we were starting out, there was always a problem of managing the growth. Now as we move overseas, it's a new way of doing business and we need to recognise the change and adapt ourselves."
Goh feels that it is important for any new company to find its niche. "When you are young, you need to find something that differentiates yourself from the rest of the pack. It is also important to find the right partners and people who will help you achieve what you set out to accomplish."
"We were lucky...... we found Cisco!"