Singapore Pools

It scored a major IT accomplishment last year when it successfully implemented PoolzConnect, a telephone betting system based on an Internet Protocol (IP) based call center and security payment gateway that is linked to local banks.

This initiative's key objectives were to provide a remote access and personalized betting service, by speaking with call operators at the IP-enabled call center via the telephone.

Through the new system, which was rolled out in mid-2005, Singapore Pools was able to create new revenue streams, improve customer service, reduce illegal betting activities, and implement a secure e-payment infrastructure.

Simply by using their telephones, customers can now place bets from the comfort of their home, and also be able to receive their wining prize automatically and securely. When a customer wins a prize after placing his bets via the PoolzConnect IP-based telephone service, the amount is automatically credited into his pre-defined and approved bank account.

Singapore Pools attributed the successful deployment of PoolzConnect to the strong support and involvement of top management, a good project management team, and a clear definition of what was required.

Shi Nansi, manager of IT strategy, quality and security at Singapore Pools, was also quick to recognize the support of its technology partners, and credited much of the company's IT innovation to his CEO, Tan Soon Nan. Shi describes Tan as one with "many creative ideas and many years of experience in banking and investment".