More than a few networks went down on Victoria's Secret show, or attempting to download the Starr report. I went to visit MR. Steigel at Sandpiper recently, and to me what was the real value of the technology was for enterprises moving towards outsourcing its IT, as it operated on the edge versus in the core ala AKAM. Although I am not sure that DI is the right fit for this company, I can see the value of "Sandpipering" content of some enterprise at the edge. What I mean in the consumer world would be similar to what I believe Ford and MSN are attempting to do for car buying. Say I wanted to buy a Taurus in blue, with a grey interior, I could get a very realistic view of what my prospective car would look like, and could even view it from multiple angles and distances, under different lighting conditions. This process would best be performed close to the end user, as it is a personal application. In the enterprise space, it could be used by corporate portals looking to personalize workgroups and sites for its employees. Again, best left at the edge. While a template is sent from higher up in the network, much is done locally.
However if what you are saying, Frank, is true (which it probably is), then we all had better load up on LVLT, WCG, QWST and the other backbone guys. We'll all run out after a few years! I personally have believed this for some time, but your post really got me going!
BTW, anyone know why Sandpiper would go out so cheaply? $620-630 million seems like pocket change when AKAM will no doubt be worth billions! I can't get past "the company line" as to why on earth they would sell! |
