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Digital Home Services Consumer consumption of communications and entertainment services are spurring companies to offer these packages as bundled solutions. These bundles can include local and long-distance phone service over a wireline connection, video and entertainment services, broadband Internet connectivity, and wireless voice and data service plans. The first generation of these “double play,” “triple play,” and “quadruple play” service bundles have primarily focused on offering the customer a bundled discount. Digital Home Solutions Assessments provide a detailed analysis of these bundles and their relative competitive value based on each service provider’s overall offering, the individual elements of the bundle, and the strengths and weaknesses of the service provider. Comprehensive coverage includes product and service rollouts from both traditional phone companies and from cable operators. Solutions Assessments are updated on a continuous basis, and may be used in conjunction with the Digital Home Service Module and supplementary reports from Current Analysis, to provide an unparalleled view of the evolving digital home competitive landscape. Each Solution Assessment includes a description of the vendor's capabilities across the following elements:
Anatomy of a Solution Assessment
Selection Buying Criteria
Availability Service availability for all four elements of a quadruple play within the provider’s franchise area are ranked, as is the availability of an integrated bundle in all franchised areas where the provider is allowed to offer service. The lack of a franchise license within a service provider’s footprint, the lack of physical facilities or service capability by region, or the lack of features such as HD programming are negatives regardless of the fact that a service provider or technology is new to the served market. Similarly, the lack of wireless service to constitute a full quadruple play is also a negative factor, as is the lack of local phone service in any served area. Ease of Use Ease of use is considered for installation and ongoing use. For voice, the availability of instructions is a factor. For video, the online channel guide’s intuitive ease of use for on-screen video and entertainment access and the remote control’s form factors are taken into consideration. For broadband, easy self-installation and wireless (802.11) features are rated. Future Direction Technology platforms and product roadmaps are considered – even when consumers might not see or be aware of what the provider can offer in the future. Roadmap assessments and examples are based only on publicly-disclosed plans or technology analysis based on infrastructure capabilities. Price and Promotions Price and value for similar features are the most heavily weighed bundle factors when assigning the competitive position for the overall bundle. Value based on promotional prices and post-promotion rates are compared for individual service elements and for the total bundle price. Promotional rates are considered when they are effective for six months or more, along with the average rate plans for each provider’s lead offer. Value for similar features also comes under consideration (e.g., voicemail and custom calling features, similar broadband speeds, and similar channel counts). Price evaluations also include the price for “hidden charges,” like extra charges for modems, media gateways, and subscriber line charges. Reliability Reliability is most heavily factored for published voice network availability, voice quality of service, and consistent video quality, regardless of underlying delivery platforms or atmospheric conditions. Broadband reliability is considered only when the broadband connection is required to deliver voice and/or video services. Battery backup for phone service during power interruptions is mandatory. Service and Support Installation intervals, guarantees for on-time appointments, and online troubleshooting are minimal requirements. Remote troubleshooting and problem resolution that does not need a truck roll is a plus. Phone access 24/7 to “real people” who can fix a service problem, talk customers through trouble shooting, and provide technical advice receives extra credit. Value-added Services Value-added services are considered for each element. For example, voice services that can integrate unified communications are evaluated. Video services that have an extraordinary HD channel count, industry-leading special interest video program packages, or a large video-on-demand library are considered. Broadband services that integrate extra services such as a home security monitoring service or music library downloads will be rated more highly. The highest rating will go to providers that have services integrated across wireline and wireless and include standard and value-added features on the television, computer, and phone. Benefits
Solution Assessment Competitive Landscape Chart Ranking based on Key Selection Criteria ratings
Analyst: Larry Hettick ► Bio Contact us today to learn more: United States Europe | Client Access | |
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Solution Assessments include in-depth product evaluations that look at the strengths and weaknesses of the services across key buying criteria including availability, ease of use, future direction, price and promotions, reliability, service and support, and value-added services. Analysis is provided on recent company activity, with perspectives on how the products rank against the competition. 
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