Convergence causes problems

A significant number of people surveyed by Network General have experienced problems in integrating their networks and other technology with convergence technologies. It's become a priority to solve those problems, reports eChannel Line.

Network General, a 20-year-old provider of IT management products, periodically surveys its customers. Of the 576 customers asked about integrations of convergence technologies, 38% said the integration process had created a problem.

"All of our customers almost across the board are doing e-mail, voicemail, some kind of unified messaging, and they're becoming more mobile," said James Messer, director of technical marketing at Network General.

Convergence of information, communication, aerospace and nanotechnologies are the hope for the future, said former Indian President Abdul Kalam, reports The Hindu.

Speaking at 'Aaruush 2007', a national-level technical fest at SRM University in Kattankulathur, he said IT had combined with biotechnology, resulting in bio-informatics.

"Nanotechnology is knocking at our doors and is the field of the future," said Kalam, adding that if biotechnology and material convergence were linked, a new science called "Intelligent Bio-Science" would arise.

Frost & Sullivan has released a new research report detailing the trends of US residential bundled services market, according to Business Wire.

The study identifies the key market drivers and challenges and discusses current and emerging trends in this market. It also recognises the entry of a host of unconventional participants, now laying claim to converged IT services.

In this research, Frost & Sullivan's expert analysts thoroughly examine the following converged markets: fixed/landline voice services, mobile wireless services, cable/satellite/IPTV television services, and Internet access (broadband/dial-up) services.