Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Polycom taken private?

So, finally, something interesting.



When I hear about buyouts like the above, I start to think about what one could do. Certainly, Apax could do some bundling with either companies it has investments in like Smart Technologies:


or, it could be the start of more purchases by Apax. Potentially, they'll look at a data company, a voice company. Maybe an Audiocodes, Broadsoft, or other switch providers.

Or...Apax could notice what I've mentioned to many, which is that PLCM has some unlocked value. Split off voice and sell it to a hardware manufacturer that can apply some scale and unlock extra margin. Or to switch only provider that would like to have their own phones. Take the patents and put them into a Patent troll company and go out and make some money just on royalties. Or... one thing I've said to many parties is become an OEM only manufacturer. And make products for others to put their name on. Why do I say that? Because.. PLCM has been a terrible sales company and a terrible marketer of technology and also has been short sighted on strategic goals....but they have been a good innovator and have had fairly good r&d.

Lots of potential here to be unlocked..which ever way it flies.

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