Cisco makes devices work across networks

BANGALORE, INDIA: Soon, mobile phone users may be able to get incoming calls automatically diverted to their office numbers when inside the office and vice versa, click pictures of a building and get its history (content) delivered in seconds, order the print of a document on the office network and check its status.

All of this and much more can be a reality as Cisco is working on developing comprehensive mobility solutions that make systems work across multiple networks. To make this a reality, the company is working on incorporating new types of services into the network, and drive interoperability among users, devices applications, and networks.

Mobility services of future will include access to business applications, services, and tools from any location and at any time. The mobility service, once ready, will offer an opportunity to create sustainable competitive advantage. “It will bring flexibility to support innovative business applications and network services. Besides, mobility will make it easier and more cost-effective to manage” said Maciej Kranz, vice president, Marketing Wireless Networking Business Unit, Cisco Systems.

Cisco mobility solutions will serve four primary areas where work happens: campus, branch, home and on-the-go. The networking giant is already working with partners and alliances across verticals to bring about real mobility across devices, service providers and networks to enable greater connectivity, besides enabling businesses to operate at lower costs.

There is a dramatic change in the work environment compared to what it was a decade ago. Employees are on the move both within and outside organizations. The key challenge for companies is to maintaining their productivity and responsiveness. Even on-the-go, employees require access to their critical data applications, and collaborate with colleagues, partners and customers.

Companies like Nokia, Apple, Samsung, HP, etc., and application providers like Adobe, Oracle, Microsoft, etc., are already working with Cisco to make real mobility happen. “It’s all about partnerships. A concrete picture will emerge shortly,” Maciej said.

According to a Forrester study, in five years from now, search will be a key application for one-third of the world’s mobile users. Then, nine of the 10 top banks offer mobile banking and 60 percent of travelers are expected to use mobile data service.

With the future in sight, Cisco sees a $13 billion market in mobility by 2010. Its investments in WiMax, Wi-Fi, RFID/location-based services and MESH provide Cisco an edge to move ahead bringing real mobility, the vice president said.