Italian banking group Monte dei Paschi di Siena (BMPS) has signed a three year contract, worth EUR45 million, with Telecom Italia for the design and implementation of an integrated voice and data telecommunications network.
Telecom Italia says the contract calls for the development of a multi protocol label switching (MPLS) transmission network.
The network will feature two data processing centres, in Florence and Siena, which will operate simultaneously to ensure continuity of branch and ATM transactions via XDSL broadband connections.
Network management and technology assistance will be provided by a personalised helpdesk accessed through a Web interface.
Telecom Italia the integrated network will enable the bank to roll out new banking services that are accessed through an integrated platform of channels such as branches, call centres and Internet and mobile banking. Future plans include the implementation of 3G wireless network technology to improve connectivity between branches.