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News Releases
New Edge Wins Deal to Build, Manage Network for Express Check Advance
Private WAN links 140 sites, eliminates manual processes, improves operations
VANCOUVER, Wash. – (August 14, 2007) – New Edge Networks said it won a contract to build and manage a private communications network for Express Check Advance LLC, one of the largest payday cash advance services in the Southeast. New Edge expects to complete installation by the end of August.
Express Check Advance will use its high-speed wide area network to introduce new products and offer more convenient services through a new point of sale system that offers real-time access to branch transactions and information. The DSL-based private network links 140 branch locations in seven states with the company’s headquarters in Chattanooga, Tenn.
“When customers come to our branches empty-handed, we can make it convenient for them to complete a transaction with us rather than having them leave and return with necessary documents, or potentially not come back at all,” said Scott H. Swiney, director of IT for Express Check Advance. “Our new network will help us eliminate a lot of manual processes so we can be more efficient and focus on building loyal relationships with customers.”
By using payday advances responsibly, consumers can effectively deal with unexpected financial emergencies. Typically, a customer uses a payday advance to cover small, unexpected expenses between paydays to avoid expensive bounced-check fees, late bill payment penalties, and other less desirable short-term credit options.
The network will enable branch locations to instantly verify online banking accounts or employment. It will also help usher in new products and services such as title loans, check cashing, gift and prepaid cards as well as debit cards.
“We went through a lengthy process for selecting a provider,” Swiney said. “We were impressed with New Edge’s pricing, coverage, pre-qualifications, and installation process. Our final network is going to closely resemble what was in the original proposal we received from New Edge; I do not expect any surprises.”
Under terms of a two-year agreement, New Edge Networks will build and manage Express Check Advance’s network. This includes network monitoring, reporting, and trouble ticketing. Express Check Advance will have online access to a network dashboard.
“The private managed network that New Edge is building for Express Check Advance will provide flexibility for future growth and expansion,” said Greg Griffiths, vice president of marketing for New Edge Networks. “Planned network applications will help them grow revenue, cut expenses, and improve the overall experience for their customers.”
About Express Check Advance
Formed in 1998, Express Check Advance has quickly grown into one of the most respected deferred presentment companies in the nation. Headquartered in Chattanooga, Tenn., Express Check Advance has locations in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Kentucky, Colorado, Nebraska, and Virginia. Express Check Advance is presently operating more than 140 branches with future plans for continued aggressive growth through new branch openings, acquisitions, and addition of new product offerings. Express Check Advance is a member of the Community Financial Services Association of America. The company’s Web site is www.ecallc.com.
About New Edge Networks
New Edge Networks, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a wholly owned subsidiary of EarthLink Inc. (NASDAQ: ELNK). New Edge Networks builds and manages private networks for businesses and communications providers. Through its nationwide backbone network with almost 900 switches and Internet routers, New Edge Networks uses any blend of network and access technologies (MPLS, frame relay, ATM, xDSL, cable, wireless, and satellite) for providing high-speed connections at any business address in the United States. Network options include any combination of access, network management functions, and on-site installation services. For more information visit www.newedgenetworks.com or call 1-360-693-9009.
Contact:
Sal Cinquegrani
(360) 906-9723
ATTN: New Edge Networks news releases contain information that is accurate as of the date they are issued. Information contained in past news releases may become out of date and the company does not assume responsibility for updating information contained in past news releases.