There seems to be alot of interest in CRM again.
I think there are a few issues worth discussing.
1. ASPT was hurt badly not only by a few internal sales/management issues, but also by the ease with which competitors were able to enter the field. This seems to have tailed off a bit. Some of the bit players have disappeared, but others have gained share or are building larger scale products off CRM (I think I mentioned SEBL's strategy in this regard in an earlier post). Certainly, ORCL is looking to crack the field from the "complete suite of products" approach and they are doing fairly well with that. The question is...is competition still ridiculous, or is it evening out?
2. Value for investment. I missed out on making big money by selling it all at 60. Still, I have gains, and am currently at break even for the current price. However, if point 1 is answered that competition is evening out and consolidation is taking place, then ASPT is in a good place. That implies, but doesn't guarantee value for the investment...OTOH, revenues in this area could be slim for some time, but I doubt it. CRM is one area that needs improvement after the dotcom blowup, and I think companies are going to be willing to pay for good products in this field.
3. Future. I am unclear on ASPT's future. Does anyone have a clearer picture? I am certain the wider "suite of products approach" is the correct one. Does that mean ASPT must make better alliances, buy into some partnerships, or get bought out? What are the opportunities here? |
