Exclusive: How Devoli is shaking up the Telco industry

In an era where the telecommunications sector is dominated by a few heavyweight players, a company like Devoli emerges as a breath of fresh air. Devoli, a New Zealand-based telecommunications company, has carved out a unique niche for itself by eschewing traditional telco models in favour of a software-based automation business that caters primarily to wholesale, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and system integrators.

In a recent interview, Jarrod Watson, Head of Channel at Devoli, shared insights into the company's operations, ambitions, and the distinct approach that sets Devoli apart in a competitive market. Watson, who oversees the company's strategic partnerships and channel growth, outlined Devoli's operations in Australia and New Zealand, and its plans to expand into the Asia-Pacific region. "Devoli currently operates in Australia and New Zealand but has ambitions to leverage our aggregation platform to access markets outside of ANZ, particularly in the Asian regions," Watson revealed, highlighting the company's future growth trajectory.

Describing Devoli, Watson pointed out, "Devoli is the fourth largest telco in New Zealand and we are independent. We do not have a retail arm. We are a software-based automation business." This independence from the retail market allows Devoli to focus on its strengths: creating unique products and services for its clients by leveraging automation and innovation. Unlike traditional telcos, Devoli thrives on being "unencumbered by legacy telco thinking," according to Watson.

Devoli's commitment to innovation is evident in its product offerings and solutions. The company has been instrumental in powering essential services for over 115,000 households across New Zealand, partnering with entities like Contact Energy and Nova Energy. This significant market penetration underscores Devoli's impact and its pivotal role in the telecommunications landscape.

The conversation with Watson also delved into how Devoli differentiates itself from larger telecommunications companies. A key factor is Devoli's reliance on big data, machine learning, and AI to enhance customer service and predict network issues. These technologies allow Devoli to offer predictive insights and improved service to its clients, a testament to its forward-thinking approach.

Watson also touched on the challenges and opportunities presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and the shift to hybrid work. He noted that Devoli's agility and pre-existing hybrid work model allowed it to navigate the pandemic with minimal disruption, even achieving staggering annual revenue growth of $20 million during the period. This resilience and ability to adapt are core to Devoli's ethos of finding "simplicity in chaos."

One of Devoli's strategic focuses is the MSP channel, aiming to grow and enhance this segment of its business. Watson explained, "My role has been introduced to the business to grow the MSP channel," indicating a targeted approach to nurture and expand these critical partnerships. The company's dedication to the channel is evident, with approximately 90-99% of its operations conducted through it, highlighting a profound commitment to working alongside and through its partners.

Looking ahead, Watson outlined Devoli's vision for the future, which includes becoming "100% channel-focused" and utilizing its extensive network more effectively. The goal is to fill the network with data traffic throughout the day, optimizing the use of its "carrier-grade network," which currently experiences peak utilization only between between 6pm and 10pm.

Devoli's place in the telecommunications industry is evolving, not just because of its products and services, but also because of its innovative approach to business and its commitment to its partners. By focusing on automation, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and nurturing its MSP channel, Devoli is poised for continued growth and success.