Cambridge expands solution offering in response to client challenges

Cambridge Technology Partners, the global eServices subsidiary of Novell, a leading provider of e-business solutions and Net services software, has announced the expansion of the solutions offered by its financial services practice.

Cambridge`s financial services practice helps capital markets, insurance, commercial and retail banking institutions improve their bottom line by designing and implementing business and technology solutions.

In response to client requirements and changing market conditions, Cambridge`s financial services practice has leveraged components of its proven solutions to develop a wider range of offerings. These include portal strategy and implementation, development and implementation of portal strategies for an enterprise and across multiple business units. Portals provide key information and access to applications for customers, employees and partners, supporting corporate initiatives such as CRM, Partner Resource Management (PRM) and integration, employee self-service, cost reduction and business intelligence.

In addition, technology integration assessment for mergers and acquisitions was developed. This is an assessment of the impact and cost of integrating the technology of two firms during a merger or acquisition. Cambridge`s solution and methodology distinguishes itself from competitive offerings because the technology assessment is done within the context of the firm`s business strategies and processes, and not based purely on technology.

Furthermore, infrastructure and technology rationalisation was examined to determine technology and infrastructure costs relative to current business requirements, with a focus on short-term ROI. Often, costs may be significantly reduced with little or no impact to functionality.

Cambridge has expanded its financial services solution focus by building upon its proven capabilities in custom trading and transaction processing systems, order management systems, decision support, compliance and market/customer connectivity. Financial services solutions also include Cambridge`s core offerings in Digital Strategy, eCommerce/Wireless, CRM, Supply Chain/eProcurement, ERM, Technology and the development of custom systems. These core offerings have also been expanded through the application of thought leadership and industry perspective.

Demonstrating that commitment, Scott Burns, formerly of JPMorgan Chase, recently joined Cambridge to lead its CRM financial services practice.

"The business environment facing our clients today is even more challenging than it was a year or two ago," said Novell SA sales director James Thomas. "We face not only evolutionary challenges like convergence of industry sectors, globalisation, commoditisation and disintermediation but we face an economic climate that threatens even the strongest of institutions. Some firms see this as a time to make well-positioned investments that have strong ROIs, to help them leapfrog the competition. Other firms are rationalising and reducing embedded costs. We have solutions that address both."

With a history of success in blue chip clients throughout the world, Cambridge offers comprehensive solutions that compare to those of larger firms, and offers increased end-to-end capabilities in new areas within the financial sector, such as energy trading.