Background

When the Board of Directors at Seven Lakes formed the Information Technology Committee, the members of the committee ranged from having ample technology experience to no experience at all, which provided a sample of the community overall. The Committee’s chairperson reviewed the research of technology consulting companies – such as Converged Services – since all members agreed that an expert was needed to oversee negotiations in order to provide the best products and services to the current and future residents of Seven Lakes:

• White Glove, concierge-style customer service

• Upgraded fiber to each home

• Market-leading technology and pricing

Challenges

Although the decision was unanimous to choose Converged Services as Seven Lakes’ technology partner, the community had a single video-only bulk agreement with a hybrid-fiber coaxial (HFC) infrastructure. Since only the video service was bulked, residents were paying retail pricing for products and services such as HD programming, DVR functionality, and Internet and modem equipment. Based on high Internet usage of current residents, the Committee understood the importance of adding these additional services to the new bulk agreement, as well as updating the infrastructure to bring fiber to each home. The current provider maintained that a consultant was not necessary to achieve these goals. The Committee knew that to ensure the best services at the best value from a provider with a strong customer service reputation, Converged Services was their only choice.

Converged Services
Solution

The Committee was pleased that Converged Services’ proven process was much smoother than initially thought. The responsive and reliable team at Converged Services ensured all questions were answered. The fact that Converged Services offers certified project management through the negotiations and build-out of the new services was an added bonus for Seven Lakes.

Overall, the Board, Committee and residents of Seven Lakes remain extremely happy and excited about the market-leading price negotiated for new bulk services, as well as the products and programming included in the new bulk agreement. By adding HD programming, Whole-Home DVR service, and Internet with equipment for each home, residents are saving thousands of dollars each year. The association also received an incentive signing bonus, as well as fiber to each home to ensure this Community of Excellence is future-proof.