We previously commented on the NOKIA-Alcatel-Lucent (ALU) proposed acquisition http://appledoreresearch.com/nokia-alcatel-lucent-deal-is-a-response-to-telecom-shift-to-programmable-networks/ and the rationale behind the deal. This article evaluates the implication of a post-merger where the combined assets are rationalized and the benefits to helping CSPs operationalize the programmable network. Appledore Research Group has just completed an comprehensive review of the major software supplier’s portfolios against a standardized ARG taxonomy. Our taxonomy is designed to normalize products against a common structure so that positioning, gaps, strengths and complementarity (yes, the precursor to synergy) becomes evident. From our indepth briefings and analysis, it in fact appears that there are significant opportunities for ALU and NOK to combine product lines, erase gaps and strengthen their position in the marketplace and the solutions they offer to customers. Fortuitously, in the software space, NOKIA and ALU have taken very different approaches, and invested in complementary areas of the Appledore Research Group taxonomy. NOKIA has taken an evolutionary approach, re-using significant portions of its existing OSS base, and investing relatively less in the underlying Telco cloud platform infrastructure but providing a smooth migration for existing PNFs with emerging VNFs. Nokia’s new investments have been concentrated in two areas – upgrading the long-standing NetAct network manager […]