Microsoft Acquires Groove Networks: Three Years Too Late, Four Years to Impact, Apr 13

Shared Spaces announces the release of an updated revision of its independent Strategic Viewpoint report assessing Microsoft's acquisition of Groove Networks. The update takes into consideration further information that has come to light since the acquisition was announced, such as the purchase terms, and also limitations on synchronizing between Windows SharePoint Services and Groove.

Authored by Michael Sampson, the 10-page report:

" ... works through what is ahead for a combined Microsoft and Groove entity, and ultimately concludes that Microsoft is three years too late in acquiring Groove, and customers won’t see any benefit for at least four years. This creates a plethora of opportunities for competitors."

Table of Contents
Introduction
Strategic Reasons for the Acquisition
The Trifecta Approach Lacks Strategic Sense
Limitations in Using Groove to Take WSS Off-Line (new section)
Outlook for Product Integration between Microsoft and Groove
* Too Late for Offline and File Sync Capabilities in Longhorn 2005/2006
* Groove Virtual Office will Cease as a Standalone Offering
* Too Late to Impact Longhorn Server 2007; Maybe 2009?
* The Timing is Very Strange; Introduces High Degree of Uncertainty
* Customers Need Cross-Platform Solutions
* Can Microsoft Help Resolve GVO's Girth?
* Microsoft Flip-Flop on Partnering with Groove Networks (new section)
* Not a Repeat of Iris and Lotus
* Conclusion: Three Years Too Late, Four Years to Impact
Strategic Recommendations to Customers and Microsoft VARs
* Next Steps for Current Customers of Groove
* Next Steps for Prospective Customers of Groove
* Next Steps for Microsoft Messaging & Collaboration Customers
* Next Steps for Microsoft Value-Added Resellers

How to Buy
This independent Strategic Viewpoint report is available for immediate purchase, for US$400 per copy for a single reader, $1500 for internal enterprise-wide distribution rights at a user organization, and $4000 for internal distribution rights at a collaboration software vendor organization. Order now by sending email to reports@shared-spaces.com (you will be sent details about payment method by credit card). Contact us about public distribution rights.