Global Systems Telecom has qualified for designation as a CSP Network Premier Master Agency.

The CSP Network Master Agency Certification Program was rolled out by PHONE+ last fall to bring clarity to the definition of this unique player in the distribution channel. PHONE+ has sought to formalize this increasingly important dealer category and to recognize those who meet its specifications for the benefit of subagents and suppliers seeking partnerships with such entities.

Founded in 1993 and based in Coconut Creek, Fla., GST maintains 300 agent representatives and more than 30 direct carrier relationships. It provides partners with a turnkey business model, offering back-office, front-office and marketing services. GSTs Global Zone Software offers partners a way to manage customer accounts and interface with GSTs back office. A team of professional product managers support sales and customer-retention efforts for data, Internet, VoIP and managed services.

Our business has transformed significantly since 1993, says GST President Mark Solomon, commenting on the investments the company has made over the years. We started as a company offering low-cost long-distance service to associations and transformed into a fully staffed master agency focusing on converged data, voice and Internet solutions for our agents and customers.

Paul Silicato, vice president of GST, says the company has two new initiatives he expects to generate additional revenue streams for GST and its partners. One is an Internet-based video/audio phone and conferencing system available to consumers or businesses with minimum Internet bandwidth (128K), a Webcam and a headset. We are also looking at packaging and marketing a hosted VoIP solution including, IP phone equipment, implementation and LAN configuration for small businesses, he says.

Susan Kinney-Mantione, general manager for GST, says the company applied to become a Premier Master Agency because of the credibility and recognition it would provide to the agency. There are many companies in the market today indicating they are master agencies when they really dont have the infrastructure and staff to support this, says Kinney-Mantione. Since we have been certified, partners can be confident in what they will receive from GST.

The criteria for the certification and its accompanying metrics are the result of consultation with industry participants both suppliers and agents. Program details and application forms will be available online at www.csp-network.com.