Fixed-Mobile Convergence (FMC) is the term used to describe a wide range of mobile services that bring together elements of a fixed communications infrastructure.  

In simple terms, it will enable the provision of both fixed line and mobile telephony from a single phone, which can switch between networks when required. 

Typically, this service relies on a dual mode handset, where the user's mobile handset is able to support both local and national coverage. 

Why has the channel heard little about FMC to date? 

While a number of technologically competent products have been around for a while, it seems that no one has yet grasped the concept of adapting this technical product for the needs of the channel. 

To meet these needs, the product would need to bring in sufficient margins in order for the reseller to introduce to his/her portfolio. 

It would also have to be a saleable product that can be easily explained by the reseller and just as easily understood by their customers. 

daisy is currently working with a number of the UK's leading providers and industry experts in a bid to champion the cause for small and medium resellers. 

The ultimate goal is to pull together all the essential elements and develop a clear, concise and fit for purpose product that bridges the wireless/wired divide. 
 

Do you think FMC is ready to take to market yet? 

In daisy's view, no. Fixed mobile convergence is one of the latest telecoms buzz words which everyone in the industry wants to know more about. 

It will certainly revolutionise the telecoms industry in the next few years, but there are several barriers to overcome before it can achieve this status. 

The problem is that at the moment there are few, if any, products ready and fit for channel purpose. 

At present, there is no differentiation between products for a two-man operation and a 200-strong team. 

The offers out there seem to focus on the needs of the larger commercial outlets and in doing so, the tendency is for them to be technically led. 

As a champion for the UK's SME market, daisy is trialling options that will determine the best commercially viable package for channel partners, combined with best products for end user customers. 

While daisy could easily adopt one or several fixed mobile convergence products already in existence, it will only do so when it believes it had found a product that suits both needs. 

In our view, Fixed Mobile Convergence has to be seen as a unified communications product and provided as part of a suite of offers and not as a stand alone item. 

By adopting such a solution led approach we feel that both channel partners and end user customers will truly have the viable solution mix they need.

There is no doubt that fixed mobile communication is going to be one of the leading product areas for voice resellers in the UK in the near future.  
 

How important is FMC going to be to the channel in the future? 

Fixed mobile convergence is one of the strategic links in providing truly unified communications. 

However, at the moment, not many resellers have the internal resources required to be able to develop this product themselves. 

This is why daisy is creating a channel offering to take away this unnecessary pain and allow all resellers to compete equally, irrespective of size or internal staff restrictions.