Knowledge is power. But if BT is right with the consultancy and implementation service it launched last week at TeleManagement World in Dallas, knowledge, particularly the first-hand knowledge of telecom business transformation that it gained through its 21st century network project, is power that makes money — and perhaps helps others along the way transition to be next-gen service providers.

BT is making the most of its experience. Having conducted the largest business and network transformation in telecom history so far, the company is in position to launch 21C Global Venture, a new business unit that offers transformation services to service providers of all sizes worldwide that want to achieve BT-like results in converting to an all-IP network without the pain.

The new business unit, known as 21CGV, was established by BT Global Services' carrier services division, Global Telecom Markets, together with BT's Group Technology Office. It will offer BT 21C Build Services and Managed Services.

Phil Dance, chief information officer of technology for BT, said after enduring four years in a very lonely position as the implementers of BT 21CN, his group couldn't help but hug itself a little. “We did it,” he said. “And we think we can help other operators make the journey faster.”

That the company executed on its 21CN plan without the help of system integrators is what gives BT the credentials to sell consultancy services to advise people how to go about network transformation. In this effort, BT will be addressing what it sees as a $50 billion market in the next five years.

One of the project's primary targets will be the cable operators. “We have common competitors in companies such as AT&T and Verizon,” Dance said.

Keith Willetts, chairman of the TeleManagement Forum, said fear of a common enemy is always a great motivator.

He also said that with the new initiative, there is probably a bigger economic purpose than just making money off consulting fees. “If they were the head of the transformation wave and everybody went in their direction, it means they aren't out on a limb. Their suppliers are getting more volumes dropping their unit prices. There is significant economic value from the whole world going the BT way.”

BT's first customer for this new service will be Turk Telecom, following a support agreement between BT and Oger Telecom.

TELEPHONYTV

Tim McElligott speaks with BT's Phil Dance at TeleManagement World about its recent IPTV launch.
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