BellSouth announced that it is providing a complete voice and data communications solution to support the operations of VIPGift, a Chattanooga-based service company that provides simplified employee incentive programs for companies around the world.

VIPGift's incentive program is unique because customers' employees are issued a redemption card or electronic number that can be instantly redeemed for millions of gifts, including catalog products, movie tickets, phone cards, charitable donations and pre-paid Visa and MasterCard gift cards. The redemption process is IP-based, but can be executed online or through an automated process over the phone.

Scalability was a primary consideration when choosing a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) solution from BellSouth, due to consistent triple digit company growth and the majority of VIPGift's sales and service call center workforce utilizing the telecommunications system.

"IP technology is the foundation of our redemption process and BellSouth VoIP is now delivering the voicemail automation, call center support, scalability and the back-up capabilities that we require for our headquarters communications," said Hamid Andalib, founder and CEO of VIPGift. "With this system in place, we are better equipped to handle the triple digit annual volume increases experienced over the last six years as employers seek to reward positive performance."

VIPGift has four remote offices and uses VoIP calls between these locations to more efficiently utilize the data network in place. A new dedicated data circuit also links the Chattanooga and Atlanta locations as part of the total solution.

In addition to VoIP, VIPGift uses BellSouth business services to provide 100 percent of their telecommunication needs including local and long distance voice, dedicated Internet access, point-to-point, frame relay and DSL data services, on-demand conferencing services and Cingular Wireless solutions. VIPGift also uses BellSouth Long Distance calling cards as a redemption option for its gift card solutions.

"VIPGift has built a business around flexibility and service for its customers which is exactly what BellSouth provides through innovative communication solutions," said Dick Anderson, vice chairman and president, business markets - BellSouth. "BellSouth's goal is always to design solutions that help businesses grow and succeed."

BellSouth offers a full portfolio of voice and data solutions and has delivered enterprise VoIP solutions since 2001. To learn more about BellSouth's communications solutions for businesses, visit http://largebusiness.bellsouth.com.