Cisco Systems Business Analysis Essay examples -- Technology Companies

Cisco Systems Cisco Systems - World's Leading Network Hardware Products Cisco Systems, Inc. is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. Cisco operates in one industry segment and creates hardware and software solutions that link computer networks so that people have easy access to information without regard to differences in time, place or type of computer system. Networking is a multi-billion dollar global market whose growth is spurred by the belief that the Internet is changing the way we work, live, play, and learn. Over the last year, there has been a key shift in the role of the Internet and in how the Internet is perceived. What was once a fairly complex tool used by an elite group of highly technical individuals is now a technology driving economic change globally by creating new jobs and market opportunities. The Company markets its products through its direct sales force, single and two-tier distributors, value-added resellers, service providers and system integrators. This multiple-channel approach allows customers to select the channel that addresses their specific needs and provides the Company with broad coverage of worldwide markets. Customers benefit from Cisco networking solutions through more efficient exchange of information, which in turn leads to cost savings, process efficiencies, and closer relationships with customers, prospects, business partners, suppliers, and employees. Cisco solutions are the networking foundation for companies, universities, utilities, and government agencies worldwide. The Company was founded in late 1984 by a small group of computer scientists from Stanford University seeking an easier way to connect different types of computer systems. Cisco Systems... ...Internet. Their relationship with Hewlett-Packard covers a broad range of initiatives including technology development, product integration, professional services, and customer service. Last May, GTE announced that it would build a national network based on Cisco's products, enabling service providers to rapidly deploy value-added services and drive next-generation Internet offerings. And the goal of their collaboration with Alcatel is to offer complete networking solutions to telecommunications carriers and other Internet service providers worldwide. Each of Cisco's strategic alliances will create a sustainable competitive advantage for both companies in order to optimize products, price points, distribution, and services. Through these relationships, Cisco will provide its customers the ability to become global networked businesses well into the next century.