With the growing number of IT solutions, it can be challenging to exploit the available resources to the maximum extent. At this point, many businesses require expert support to work through the available solutions and to take full advantage of the chosen solution. Learn more about Noventiq’s approach from the interview with Vitan Kostov, Solution Sales Manager at Noventiq.

Your career revolves around information technology. Tell us about the beginnings.

To be honest, I’ve always found technology interesting, but I never thought I’d work in the IT industry. When I was 10 years old, I tried to fix everything at home, even things that weren’t broken. I wondered what was inside and how it worked. On the other hand, I hated mathematics, which is strongly related to computer science. Besides, my grandmother was a math lecturer. Despite all this, I couldn’t love math. But I was interested in graphic design, though mainly in the technical part, so I applied to graphics design program at the university. After the first semester I decided to switch to network technologies. Although I’ve never had to work with networks, it was the beginning of my journey in information technology. It might not be an ordinary path, but my curiosity led me to follow all sorts of interests and now I can say that I’ve found my place.

What are your impressions at Noventiq so far?

Basically, I’ve met my friends at Noventiq both new and old. On the one hand, I’ve worked with many of my colleagues before, so we knew each other. On the other hand, open communication and a pleasant atmosphere are valued here, and we aren’t just coworkers but a team, working for a common goal. As far as my professional experiences go, I’m grateful that, with the continuous growth of the company, I can also be involved in the development of new services; essentially, I can create something new.

What’s your approach when discussing Microsoft 365 solutions with clients?

Most of all, Microsoft 365 represents a huge portfolio, with different products that can be used in different ways. So it’s crucial to consult with the right professional on how to use the services, in the best way and tailor-made to the needs of the company.

In my experience, organizations tend to implement different services and platforms for communication, collaboration, sharing, and so on. All those services come with various subscription models, while there are many overlapping functions and capabilities. First, I start with a thorough conversation, where the client walks me through their operation including challenges and persistent problems. After establishing a baseline, we can address the needs with specific solutions, often already included in their subscription. As a result, they can stop paying for unnecessary services and identify more appropriate solutions for their particular needs.

How do customers see Microsoft 365 nowadays? 

I think organizations still primarily associate Microsoft 365 with the Office package. However, it’s a comprehensive collaboration platform, with seamlessly integrated solutions for information sharing, chatting, task management, video conferencing and so on, in one single platform. Not to mention Microsoft Power Apps, that allows businesses to build apps the easy way and basically start modernizing processes and driving innovation internally. Even so, security also represents a huge part of Microsoft 365, with built-in services. Collaboration can’t be sustained without being secure, especially in an era where we work from different places, using various devices across multiple platforms.

How can additional integrations support productivity?

One of the main benefits of Microsoft Teams is that it works seamlessly with other third-party apps, integrated into the solution. For example, Noventiq developed TotalVoice, which is a unique solution that allows a company to keep on with local, regional, or even global billing processes that are traditionally mandatory with the operation of a voice network. It’s hosted in Microsoft Azure and connects to the corporate Microsoft 365 tenant to get all the necessary telecommunication data, providing information for optimizing costs and processes. So, with the right subscription, companies don’t have to buy additional telephone platforms, , they leverage what they’re paying for instead. Another example is the desk booking app. It’s a mobile booking app that makes it easy to find and reserve a workspace in the office whenever they need, all integrated into Microsoft Teams.

How do you see the benefits of having international experience in a local market? 

Relying on extensive international experience can be a great comfort for clients. With proven solutions and success stories, we can demonstrate our services in a practical way; we’re also able to find the most fitting solution in any industry. I’m literally one message away from the expert on any given solution when I need deeper knowledge on a certain topic. We have the right resources and the right people to deliver results efficiently. Although our region is quite segmented in terms of industries and companies, the international know-how we represent is the guarantee for success.  

Does free time include technology in your case?

There was a time where my professional life and free time were equally defined by technology. However, I felt the need for a healthy balance, so I try to limit the use of technology when I’m not working. Recently, I started going to the mountains again for short walks and for hikes as well. I also enjoy taking photos.

Regarding technology, smart home devices impress me, but what I like most about them is the ambience a smart light bulb can create, for example. I also enjoy watching how my daughter discovers things around her, including all the possibilities that technology offers these days.