Michael, The IDI/OTXT deal came as a mild surprise. I had yet to discover these folks! At first blush, it looked like OTXT had beaten Docs at their own game. However, after a bit of investigating, I've come to similar conclusions as most of the folks around here. I found the Gore Group perplexing. Being at the table since the start of the game, kinda reminded me of Docs. OTOH, with all their deadhead software acquisitions (NBI brought back memories), Mr. Copeland also came to mind.
Anyway, I could be wrong, but OTXT bought IDI's customer list not IDI's software. The list is mildly impressive. I believe some of them (for example Dupont) are also Doc's fans which could be quite interesting.
Someone, somewhere, mentioned the cultural differences between the organizations. IDI may be from a different planet. The challenges in this area could well be part of the reason for Gore's abortive 1997 move. If OTXT can control the corporate integration costs, they should get their $10 or(?) $20 million back in short order. If they have to clean house, the new customers will cost much more. Isn't integration a new activity for Mr. Jenkin's Palm Pilot? Good entrapreneurs usually like and excel at new activities. Keeps them from getting bored and having to mow the grass.
I am not yet up to snuff on any of the DM/KM software products. Basis seems to be very similar to LiveLink. I am sure Gore and OTXT had this fact entrenched in their minds during the negotiations. Now, Docs and LiveLink are truly different products. However, they may well be both moving towards the same market. The interesting fact is that IDI has been in this market since before time. Kudos to Jenkins, especially if everything goes smoothly. Both OTXT and DOCS have impress me with their travels todate.
FWIW, My favorite LiveLink (Why don't they use 2 big L's?) site
search.qualcomm.com:3333/otcgi/llscgi60.exe?DB=2&ACTION=Highlight&QUERY=%4E%65%77%62%75%72%79&OP=and&SUBSET=SUBSET&FROM=1&SIZE=10&ITEM=1#test1
Still lurking. nf
PS You may use your real name but you're certainly not a fool, I trust! |
