Verizon Business Adds Capabilities for Wholesale Customers Using Web-based Tool to Manage Data Products

BASKING RIDGE, N.J. - Wholesale customers using Verizon Business' Web-based tool called Portfolio now have broader flexibility and choice in accessing and managing their accounts for data products.

Verizon Business, the premier provider of advanced global communications and information technology (IT) solutions, has added new options to Portfolio that allow customers to tap into a wider range of advanced functionalities to manage their private line products, including the ability to turn a price quote into an order, check the status of the order and receive comprehensive inventory reports. All these tasks are performed over secure network connections.

"Portfolio, with its new capabilities, reflects Verizon Business' long-standing commitment to ensure wholesale customers have a competitive advantage," said Mike Yancey, director of wholesale product marketing for Verizon Business. "Combining the simplicity of the Web with a secure network connection, Portfolio allows customers to conduct business with Verizon Business faster and with peace of mind."

Portfolio is a free Web-based service that Verizon wholesale customers can use to complete such tasks as online ordering of voice and data products, managing account functions, tracking various network performance parameters for voice and data products, submitting and tracking trouble tickets, and accessing critical reports. Portfolio uses simple navigational tools with secure one ID/one password to provide quick and easy around-the-clock solutions to customers' everyday business needs.

Taking advantage of the simplicity of Web access, Portfolio provides wholesale customers the flexibility to use the tool from their office or a remote location. Portfolio leverages the power of automation by offering customers the option of pre-populating fields, providing online help and accessing a number of online resources to address questions or requests.

Portfolio was launched in the spring of 2000 to give wholesale customers a robust, reliable and secure tool to manage their switched-based products.

Verizon Business, a unit of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ), is a leading provider of advanced communications and information technology (IT) solutions to large business and government customers worldwide. Combining unsurpassed global network reach with advanced technology and professional service capabilities, Verizon Business delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world. For more information, visit www.verizonbusiness.com.

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