A strategic partnership between Siemens AG's Information and Communication Networks (ICN) group and Quintus Corporation will result in a joint effort to develop and market next-generation customer relationship management (CRM) solutions by combining the worlds of Internet, mobile business and voice communications.
Siemens ICN is a leading provider of next-generation solutions for enterprise-wide solutions. Quintus Corporation is the California-based provider of industry-leading contact centre solutions for electronic customer relationship management (eCRM).
Both companies said the joint development would begin with immediate effect. The next-generation eCRM solution will deliver one of the most complete multi-site, multi-media contact centre offerings, with some of the most advanced eCRM capabilities available.
Under terms of the agreement, Siemens and Quintus will develop solutions for small to mid-sized contact centres looking for packaged products; larger centres that need customised solutions; and networked offerings for applications requiring advanced multi-site capabilities.
New products and capabilities will be delivered in phases as early as first quarter 2001.
This strategic partnership is one of the first major portfolio measures implemented by Siemens ICN in connection with its "4P'' strategy program. This strategy is focused on enhancing Siemens ICN's portfolio and profitability, specifically in Internet-based convergence technologies and broadband access technologies. The strategy is designed to ensure expanded world leadership in these core markets.
In terms of the deal, Siemens agreed to invest US$72 million in Quintus and, in return, obtain approximately 8 million shares or 19.9 percent of the outstanding stock in the company. The deal is subject to approval of the antitrust authorities.
Siemens ICN aims for global leadership in IP business Siemens Information and Communication Networks group (ICN) has announced a strategy in its bid to achieve world leadership in the Internet Protocol (IP) business.
Siemens ICN is a leading provider of integrated voice and data networks with a comprehensive portfolio of IP-based products and solutions for enterprises, carriers and service providers. In enterprise communication, ICN has over one million customers in 160 countries.
In essence, the strategy is to strengthen its portfolio and boost profitability. It is also geared to implementing targeted improvements and taking a leading role in internet-based convergence solutions and broadband access technologies.
Roland Koch, ICN's president and chief executive officer, said: "Expanding our IP business is an essential factor for the success of our corporate mobile business strategy. In particular we plan to grow our business in access technology and application products in the USA.''
To capitalise on its leading position, ICN will in future give its product and solution portfolio an even stronger and more rigorous focus. It will build on existing resources and targeted acquisitions to achieve leading positions in internet-based convergence solutions and broadband access technologies.
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