Focus will shift from feature-rich boxes to meeting customer requirements

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In terms of innovation, what new projects are in the pipeline?
Apart from technologies such as CTI support and ADSL capabilities built in, our PBX systems will have integrated soft switching capabilities, as some of the extension users could be sitting at remote locations connected to office PBX over the IP cloud. SIP phones connected to DSL connections will behave as office intercoms.

Our PBX systems will be IP-based with Wi-Fi interconnectivity, so that one integrated unit will provide voice services and also data services without the need of laying wires around the premises. Our PBX systems will have security and surveillance devices riding over the same network. Coral PBX systems will also interface seamlessly with GSM 3G networks and use them as backhaul to create mobile communication networks.

What service improvements are you planning to bring to the Indian consumer?
We have entered into an agreement with telecom companies to provide our products on a rental revenue sharing basis to customers of telcos. We provide converged solutions for voice, video, and data services on wired and wireless as well as OFC as a media. The focus will shift from feature-rich boxes to meeting customer requirements by providing bundled hardware and software on a 'pay-per-use' basis.

Rajesh Tuli
MD, Coral Telecom

What is your outlook on the Indian market?
The PBX market will grow at a rate exceeding 25%, riding the economic boom in the country, especially because infrastructure is growing at above average growth rates. The conventional PBX market may shrink but, overall, the PBX market is bound to grow.

The Indian market will move toward converged solutions for voice, data, and video on TDM/IP backhaul. Customers will require wireless platforms, and they will look for services and solutions. Customers will not buy products but hire solutions on the rental revenue sharing basis so that it is not saddled with obsolete, outdated technologies at any time.

What are the key challenges as you plan to take coral to the next level?
Brand building and market acceptance of products designed in India by small size companies is a challenge. Handholding and preferential purchase treatment for products designed by design centers will have to be ensured in these competitive global markets.

While from the operator's perspective it may be prudent to go for tried and tested products with large installation base, from the country's standpoint, it is important to encourage Indian homegrown products.

Arpita Prem
arpitap@cybermedia.co.in