VSNL, Microsoft Annouce Strategic Alliance  

Videsh Sanchar Nigam (VSNL) and Microsoft have announced a

strategic alliance to address the emerging communication needs of the

enterprise, SMB and consumer segments. As part of this alliance, VSNL's

communications network will be combined with Microsoft software to create rich

solutions and services. VSNL has also announced its foray into the web

conferencing market, with the launch of the Tata Indicom Web Conferencing

Service based on the Microsoft Office Live Meeting Platform. Both the companies

said that in the longer term, the alliance will also focus on solution areas

such as communication and collaboration, software as a service for SMB

customers, mobility and consumer digital media services. VSNL and Microsoft will

also undertake joint 'Go To Market' initiatives to evangelize and market

these offerings in the target segments.

VSNL director, Kishor A Chaukar said "Armed with the

combined strength of VSNL and Microsoft Office Live Meeting, our endeavor will

be to deliver the next generation of real time communication to enterprises in

India. Our latest offering will enable our customers to meet the twin objectives

of enhancing team communication and reducing travel time. This alliance is in

keeping with our objective of offering end-to-end managed services to our

customers".

VSNL will be providing this service for first time in India

under 4 licenses Named User license (fixed & dedicated capacity for

unlimited meetings); Room License ("always on" meeting room); Monthly

Minute Licence (pay per use) and Shared Seat License (pool of seats for multiple

use).