The birth of Pronto Computer Solutions
In 2010, Barry Herbst worked as a service-level agreement (SLA) manager for a Gauteng-based service provider. Based in Malalane, he oversaw IT-support services for a major corporate client. However, an unexpected announcement in early March 2010 changed everything.
“The company informed us that it was being liquidated, and by the end of the month, we would all be unemployed,” recalls Herbst, now managing director of Pronto Computer Solutions.
Rather than accept defeat, Herbst and two partners immediately began working on a solution. Their goal was simple: ensuring continuity for their clients and colleagues.
“On 1 April 2010, Pronto Computer Solutions was up and running. All 25 staff members had jobs, and service delivery to our customer continued without disruption,” says Herbst.
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Commitment to quality IT services
From the outset, Pronto’s mission has been clear: to provide clients with top-tier IT expertise, allowing them to focus on their core businesses without the burden of managing in-house IT departments.
“We take care of our customers’ IT needs so they can focus on what they do best. Our call centre and help desk are always available, and our team continuously upskills to stay ahead in the ever-evolving IT landscape,” says Herbst.
Initially, Pronto focused on service-level agreements, providing dedicated IT support and hardware- and software-supply services. Over time, the company recognised a growing need for comprehensive ICT solutions and expanded its service offerings accordingly.
Barry Herbst, managing director of Pronto Computer Solutions.
Expanding into a one-stop ICT provider
In 2018 Pronto Computer Solutions became a full-service ICT provider, incorporating customised solutions such as Voice-over-InternetpProtocol (VoIP) telephone services and cloud hosting.
“VoIP replaces traditional fixed-line telephone systems with a cost-efficient alternative that operates via an internet connection. Many of our corporate clients had been using outdated PABX systems that were expensive to maintain. By switching to VoIP, businesses typically save between R700 and R4 000 per month. When Pronto switched to VoIP in 2018, we immediately saved R2 000 a month,” Herbst explains.
While VoIP is particularly beneficial for large corporate clients, it is scalable and can be implemented for small businesses and residential users too.
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Growth in cloud- and server-hosting services
Pronto has also seen substantial growth in its server-hosting services, a cost-effective alternative to businesses running their file servers.
“A traditional file server can cost a company around R300 000—a significant capital investment. Outsourcing server hosting to us costs between R2 000 and R5 000 per month, eliminating the need for businesses to worry about power disruptions, connectivity issues, or software licensing,” says Herbst.
Pronto’s server room is designed with security and reliability in mind. It is fire- and waterproof, has an uninterrupted-power supply and connectivity redundancy, and ensures clients’ data always remains secure and accessible.
Expanding service offerings further
Since 2021, Pronto has further expanded its services to include:
- Fibre and wireless internet services
- Design, supply, installation, and maintenance of CCTV systems for security companies
By offering a broad spectrum of ICT solutions, Pronto continues to provide businesses in the Lowveld with tailored services that meet their unique needs.
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A strong presence in the Lowveld
Today, Pronto Computer Solutions operates from its head office in Nelspruit, with additional branches in Malalane, Komatipoort, and Pongola. The company has grown to a staff complement of 32 dedicated professionals committed to delivering top-tier ICT solutions to regional clients.
Contact Pronto Computer Solutions Contact Pronto Computer Solutions at 013 752 5007 or visit www.prontocs.co.za for expert IT support and customised ICT solutions.
At the 2024 KLCBT Awards, Pronto Computer Solutions won in the Large Business Enterprise category.
