The pairing of Alcatel and Microsoft isn't exactly unexpected, but its implications are significant.

While both companies, which are working together on SBC Communications' IP video rollout, took pains to say they are willing to work with others, the implication is that with a package that includes gear from one of the largest access vendors in the world and the software giant, you really don't need to look very far. Just as important, the two will set an "ecosystem" of other piece part vendors. Beyond loving the word ecosystem because it brings to mind some former science experiments gone wrong with ants, the idea here is that Alcatel and Microsoft have set themselves up as potential gatekeepers to the richest contracts related to IP video services. The question is how far will the two go in integrating their breadth of products and services?

Lucent in the recent past promoted its ability to take over some operational roles of the network from carriers. In fact, it wasn't too long ago that a couple of executives openly discussed the goal of operating a network for a regional Bell.

Today's announcement may not go that far, but it's not out of the realm of possibility.

E-mail me at vvittore@primediabusiness.com.