NMS Works Software to launch CygNet
12 Feb 2003
Chennai: With the demand for corDECT wireless in the local loop (WLL) picking up within and outside India, NMS Works Software, another company promoted by the Telecommunications and Computer Networks Group (TeNet) of the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-M), is ready to launch a heterogeneous integrated network management solution, CygNet.
The domestic market size for a CygNet-like product is put at Rs 350 crore, while the global market is estimated at $12 billion. Given the fact that Reliance Infocomm, Mahanagar Telephone Nigam (MTNL), Bharat Sanchar Nigam (BSNL), Himachal Futuristic Communications (HFCL) and Shyam Telelink are now deploying corDECT lines in a big way, NMS Works is all set to start with a bang.
In addition, the direct Internet access system (DIAS), the digital subscriber line (DSL) Net connection product from Banyan Networks, another TeNet group outfit, will also require CygNet. It is to be mentioned that both MTNL and BSNL are deploying DIAS.
According to officials, telecom networks are like a bowl of noodles with multi-vendors and multi-platforms used by the service providers — basic, cellular and Internet service providers (ISP). As each vendor is focused on his equipment or solution, scant regard is given to integrating with other systems in the network.
The challenge is to make one network talk with another and run the network fault-free or to spot the faults fast, analyse trends in the network performance and keep the network at its peak.
It is here that the uniqueness of CygNet comes into the picture. The heterogeneous solution easily integrates itself with multiple telecom technologies, manages all the network elements and assists the management in the overall business activity.
Though CygNet will be initially used on corDECT lines, the solution will be used for other telecom technologies in due course.
Success in this business requires not only software prowess but also skill in managing a long-term relationship. While the former has been taken care of by the TeNet group, the relationship management skills is brought in by Lakshmi G Menon, the former CMD of ITI and Hindustan Teleprinters. Menon is undoubtedly one of the prized catches for the TeNet group in recent times, as she knows the nuances of the telecom equipment trade. (See ‘TeNet begins netting big names in Indian telecom industry’).
The company is in the process of tying up its second round of funding to the tune of Rs 3.5 crore. Earlier, it had raised Rs 4 crore from Polaris Software Lab and a couple of venture capital funds. Polaris will hold a 40-per cent stake in the company while the other stakeholders would be venture funds, employees and the TeNet group. Currently NMS Works has a staff strength of 40, and the target is to add 20 more soon.
True to the TeNet group’s core philosophy of bringing in affordable telecom solutions, CygNet will be priced very low, which would give the multinational telecom companies a real run for their money.