FCM may finally have a strategy.....
The company doctor theory appeals to me...
Another quote....
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One possible take on Lucent/Symbio...
Excuse the length. And not an industry expert here, so excuse me if I interprated something wrong.
This Full Circle program is nothing exclusive to FCM. In fact, Lucent would want to sign up as many developers of third-party VOIP applications as possible in order to allow their platforms via the Softswitch API(s) to become the open network standard.
Its obvious with this announcement and the Symbio-tech news that FCM has moved to the Lucent open network standard. Possible reasons:
- Adoption of a recognized industry standard/name. Name recognition in Lucent Softswitch. This may allow getting the foot in the door for the cheaper softswitch implementation while allowing the 1-to-30 higher potential sale of FCM DVG hardware. Also, with Symbio-Tech, FCM can also market enhanced application packages which are Lucent Softswitch compatible.
- Using a standard API will allow the quick and cost-effective development and deployment of software/services on Full Circle complient networks.
- Lower risk to technology changes.
- Leverage Lucents support (marketing, financing?, consulting).
By acquiring Symbio-Tech and partnering with Lucent's Full Circle program, FCM has now significantly increased its ability to deliver an entire next generation network package to major enterpise businesses.
When using Lucent's Softswitch as part of the package, FCM puts its prospects at ease by bringing in Lucents technology, partnership, marketing and support. Once in the door, FCM can market Symbio-Tech's Lucent compatible applications for whatever they are used for (voice mail, e-mail, billing, network management and VOIP?). And of course, FCM can point out high network traffic areas where they can offer up their DVG hardware as a cost saving solution.
FCM's new VOIP development network should consist of the Lucent Softswitch, FCM DVG's and Symbio-Tech applications. This network would represent FCM's move to the Lucent standard and would be the playground for the creation of Full Circle complient applications. I wouldn't be surprised if a mini network already exists at Symbio-Tech facilities.
Does this look like a Lucent buyout or a major Lucent order?...No. Lucent is happy to let FCM and Symbio-Tech plaster its name all over the place because it benefits them to have as many developers as possible move to their standard. And it gets their Softswitch out in the market. Down the road its all going to be about controling the standard and market share.
Does this look positive for FCM?...Yes. As stated above.
Darkhorse issues....
Is there a large order in the wings from a utility company? Dan at SH also drops hints that their are prospects in the pipeline which dwarf the $2.1M customer. I think this is a reach at best based on history.
This Lucent announcement without customers soon is nothing because FCM is running out of cash when its got to go after another cheesing PP. Now, if FCM gets a major infusion of cash very soon through Lucent support or a major sale...then maybe this is the strategy which will allow them to make some money as this market matures. Again, a reach.
Too little too late or finally finding its way to success? |
