The Strategic Acquisition of Symbian Professional Services by Accenture

In 2009, Accenture made a smart strategic decision to acquire Symbian Professional Services, a move that significantly bolstered its capabilities in the mobile market. Unlike Nokia, which opted to cut costs by offloading its Symbian developers to Accenture, this acquisition was part of a broader strategy to enhance its presence and offerings in the fast-growing mobile sector.

Background and Motivation

Nokia, known for its pioneering work in mobile technology, faced a crucial decision in its business lifecycle. As the market for mobile technology evolved, Nokia found itself in a position to lay off its Symbian development team. Instead of directly laying off these employees, which would have been costly and disadvantageous for both parties, Nokia chose to pay Accenture to take over the team. This move not only provided financial leverage to Accenture but also prevented Nokia from losing valuable talent.

Accenture's Motivations

Accenture's core motivation was the expansion of its business in the mobile market. With the impending explosion in the adoption of converged mobile multimedia services, Accenture recognized an immense opportunity to become a key player in this dynamic industry. This acquisition was a strategic move to enhance its existing embedded software product-development and testing skills, aligning with the increasing demands for rapid time-to-market and high-quality solutions.

Acquisition Details and Benefits

The acquisition of the Symbian professional services unit was officially announced on July 17, 2009. According to Jean Laurent Poitou, the managing director of Accenture’s Electronics High Tech industry group, the capabilities acquired from Nokia would significantly aid Accenture in supporting its clients as they anticipate the rapid adoption of mobile multimedia services. This acquisition provided Accenture with a pool of 165 skilled professionals, enhancing its role as a supplier of tools, products, and solutions to the mobile solutions ecosystem.

Impact and Significance

The acquisition of Symbian Professional Services transferred 165 employees to Accenture, significantly boosting its mobile capabilities. This was more than just a workforce addition; it was a strategic alliance that combined Nokia's expertise in mobile technology with Accenture's expansive service portfolios. This move positioned Accenture as a leading player in the mobile market, capable of meeting the increasing demands of the sector.

Conclusion

The acquisition of Symbian Professional Services by Accenture in 2009 marked a pivotal moment in the company's move towards becoming a key player in the mobile market. By strategically leveraging the skills and capabilities of the Symbian team, Accenture not only secured a valuable asset but also solidified its position in an industry that was rapidly evolving. This acquisition encapsulates the essential strategies and foresight that are crucial for companies aiming to thrive in the highly competitive landscape of mobile technology.

References

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