The problem with "it's enterprise" explanation is that IMHO "it's the users" explains much more. ;)
If it's enterprise, why MSFT did not just build the technology into Outlook or some other enterprise offering? Outlook already has huge penetration in enterprise. The technology is not rocket science, most of Skype functionality is already available in Microsoft Live Messenger.
The only gain MSFT gets in enterprise is a brand, which is OK, but terribly expensive and maybe a bit technology in multi-country Internet to phone system connection.
On the other hand in private/personal calling, they get brand, which is very sticky for non-techies - my mother and aunt will never switch from Skype; they get technology, which may be a bit better than what they have in Messenger Live; they get 700 mln wide social network of people who may not be on Facebook (again my mother and my aunt ;)). It's not bad. ;)
What's the vision? Probably four pronged:
- Enterprise Skype - makes sense.
- More social networking in private/personal Skype - games are already there, but maybe more sharing / walls / pictures, etc.
- Mobile Skype - ??? - as supplement of Win Phone? As an app on Android/iPhone for Voip calls? (I believe Apple prohibits Voip apps, but I may be wrong).
- Xbox Skype - I am not sure this is a big deal - again why not just Xbox Live messenger?
I am not a tech visionary though. I may be missing some other huge opportunities. And obviously execution will matter a lot. If they screw things up, even my mother may ditch Skype. ;) |
