The VAR Guy

For more than a decade, Cisco Systems claimed it’s serious about the software market. Now, CIOs are finally listening to Cisco’s software claims. Here’s the proof — and the implications for Cisco’s channel partners.

Today’s Cisco Partner Summit keynote focused on collaboration. But the bigger theme was Cisco Systems attacking (and dismissing) Hewlett-Packard’s unified communications partnership with Microsoft. Cisco Senior VP of Software Don Proctor took a number of shots at the HP-Microsoft deal. Here’s the scoop. Plus, HP’s previously stated views on this matter.

Setting the stage for this week’s Cisco Partner Summit 2009 in Boston, Channel Chief Keith Goodwin (pictured) blogged a bit about his thoughts on Microsoft’s expanded Unified Communications relationship with Hewlett-Packard. Goodwin’s blog had a few interesting items … including a prominent mention of Apple. Hmmm.

When The VAR Guy descends April 1 on VoiceCon Orlando 2009, he’ll meet multiple unified communications (UC) thought leaders. Our resident blogger has plenty of questions, and he’ll be seeking answers during meetings with Avaya, Cisco Systems, IBM and Siemens Enterprise Communications. Here are the top 7 questions The VAR Guy will be asking.

When VoiceCon 2009 kicks off March 30 in Orlando, The VAR Guy wonders: Will Microsoft arrive solo to this latest unified communications dance, or will it still have Nortel Networks on its arm? Here are some clues.

When Cisco Systems announced its Unified Computing strategy earlier this week, dozens of vendors bowed before the networking giant and endorsed Cisco’s vision. It reminded The VAR Guy of a carefully choreographed Microsoft event from the 1990s — with a fresh coat of Web 2.0 paint. Here’s why.

Zeacom isn’t the best-known brand in Unified Communications, but the privately held company seems to be sneaking up on rivals. Skeptical? Consider this: Zeacom insiders say the company is profitable, has no debt and 10 percent of the company’s annual revenue is in the bank. Hmmm. The VAR Guy is intrigued.

During the Avnet Analyst Day in New York, Avnet Technology Solutions described its fastest growing business opportunities for VARs. But the more intriguing discussion occurred over lunch. That’s when John Paget, president of Avnet Technology Solutions, answered questions about possible hosting partnerships involving Cisco Systems Inc. Unified Communications and Microsoft Office Communications Server. Here’s the scoop.

It’s a familiar trend: Smart people leaving Microsoft to launch a company that cashes in on Microsoft-oriented technology. The latest example: A group of Microsoft Unified Communications veterans have launched Unify2, a consulting firm focused on (wait for it… wait for it…) Microsoft Unified Communications. Here’s the scoop.

Ubuntu Linux desktops grabbed headlines at LinuxWorld Expo. But The VAR Guy spotted another big trend involving Vyatta and open source networking VARs at the show. More than 100 solutions providers are now backing Vyatta’s networking gear. But that’s just the start of an open source networking tidal wave.