VoIP Providers Aren’t Innovating–And Neither Is Skype
Sorry, Rich, I disagree with your assertion that Skype is innovating. Certainly, they are doing more than a lot of the PSTN replacement companies, but to me they are bringing a lot of voice 1.0 concepts to the 2.0 world. While it will no doubt be a force to reckon with, I think their usurious charges for the service and (especially) lower limits on charging will be a huge barrier to adoption.
I think the title for eBay for consulting will go to a company called SupportSpace (Disclaimer: I am on their advisory committee). While Skype is providing voice and video on a closed ecosystem, SupportSpace has created a system based on open-source software and open standards for both asking for and providing technical support/consulting services. Furthermore, they are providing a whole ecosystem behind the tools to ensure a quality experience all around. I can’t remember if VoIP was part of their offering, but there’s no reason it couldn’t be. Certainly, SupportSpace will do more to earn their margin (which I don’t remember off-hand) than Skype ever will.
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Comment by Otto
One this Skype has over SupportSpace is brand recognition and a large user base. It will take a while for SupportSpace to start rolling but I doubt Skype will be sitting and doing nothing during that time!
Otto,
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Comment by Jonathan Jensen
When Skype launched their Talk for Britain promotion it looked like Skype Out for in-country calls would be viable in the future. However the move to connection charges combined with uncompetitive charges for SkypeOut gives them nothing to compete with. It’s a gift to the telcos!
Comment by vic
I’m gonna have to agree with Otto. Skype may not be innovative anymore, but it still has a loyal customer base that’s constantly growing from familiarity. Of course, there’s no telling how quick SupportSpace can catch on. The competition will be good for the business.
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Comment by PhoneBoy
I’m not going to disagree with the fact that Skype has a larger user base and that SupportSpace will have to build up their brand recognition. That being said, Skype is going to have to do *a lot more* to justify their cut.
Comment by john
Skype is garbage. Its only good bc there is not much competition. SupportSpace will blow them apart soon. Of course you need a high speed internet provider with either. I know a cheap and reliable broadband company that offers a variety of services, check them out:http://affordablet3.com
Comment by john
I think Skype is a very good company. They are innovative as they come out w/ more products. The only dislike I have vs. VOIP is 911 security but other than that VOIP is a must for all businesses!