Case Study:
Defining a Broadband TV Business

The Issue:

A client sought to launch a premium broadband TV service. Before making a potentially significant investment in this disruptive consumer technology, the client required highly detailed analysis, covering the competitive landscape, internal capabilities, features of highest interest to the target segment, and impact on internal operations.

The Solution:

We worked directly with the senior team to define the broadband TV business, develop screening criteria to evaluate potential business and technology partners, and prepare a competitive analysis to pinpoint the best opportunity for market entry. We identified key features and use cases of greatest interest to the target customer segment and collaborated with potential partners/vendors to rapidly prototype solutions. To develop a complete picture of the end-to-end architecture, we defined key quality and experience metrics and facilitated cross-functional discussions. Finally, we developed a comprehensive program plan addressing product definition, release, launch, business processes and organizational transformation.

The Result:

IBB prepared the client with a roadmap for successful launch of its broadband TV business and formalized senior management consensus around the approach, technology and business model. Armed with key metrics, knowledge of features with the highest value to customers, and an understanding of the competitive landscape, our client was able to enter the market during a critical window in broadband TV's development and profit from its growth.

Case Study:
Creating a Broadband Portal Business Model

The Issue:

The largest Internet-on-TV service in the world needed a business model and approach to expand into mainstream, set-top based interactive TV services.

The Solution:

IBB identified all potential revenue streams, and defined the client's monetization potential for these revenue streams, as well as used its end-to-end functional architecture framework to estimate costs. We also defined a roadmap for the current and projected set-tops and associated services and applications. In addition, we assessed the implications for the portal's infrastructure and architecture to provide these new services with an end-to-end functional architecture framework.

The Result:

IBB delivered a comprehensive business model that enabled the client to evaluate the business opportunity. Further, we provided specific recommendations for changing the portal architecture to enhance its adaptability to various delivery and distribution networks. We also identified key technical gaps that needed to be addressed, and recommended solutions to address these gaps for the portal to deliver services to set-tops.

Case Study:
Managing All-Digital Video Transition

The Issue:

A major MSO needed a workable plan for an all-digital transition that would lead to higher quality video service, lower STB cost, simplified video delivery architecture and, eventually, reclaimed bandwidth.

The Solution:

Working closely with engineering, marketing and senior management, IBB conducted a detailed exploration into programming and technical changes that would entail minimal disruption and prudently manage bandwidth. Our analysis included such issues as the impact of lower-cost all-digital STBs, digital ad insertion, theft reduction, quality improvement and bandwidth savings. Based on our findings, we established a working group composed of corporate, ad sales and field engineers to develop a digital simulcast architecture overlaying simulcast versions of the analog lineup onto the existing infrastructure. We also developed plans for digital ad insertion and operational support, along with emergency alert and multiplexing guidelines. We then served as the technical project lead for the rollout. In this capacity we maintained schedules and led engineering in the resolution of field and vendor issues. IBB also enabled executive oversight of the project and managed risk throughout deployment.

The Result:

The MSO proceeded with an industry-leading approach to all-digital simulcast that has dramatically improved the customer viewing experience. Further, the client's ability to transfer its entire lineup to a digital format has led to the aggressive rollout of a digital version of basic cable service using less costly all-digital STBs.

Case Study:
Integrating Major MSO Acquisitions

The Issue:

After closing on a deal to acquire assets of a bankrupt MSO and agreeing to swap systems with yet another MSO, a major MSO needed technical and operational expertise to coordinate the integration efforts. This high profile deal is considered to be one of the most complex and risky integration deals attempted in the industry, requiring cross-functional planning and coordination between various organizations including billing, provisioning, network infrastructure, network monitoring, customer care, IT, legal, finance, branding, product houses and local operations.

The Solution:

IBB Consulting provided a flexible approach to managing the complex technical and operational issues involved in the integration. Facilitating and coordinating the existing expertise and experience within the client's own teams, we developed a series of processes, initiatives and tools that were applied across all functional areas within corporate and local organizations.

The Result:

IBB Consulting drove the development of a comprehensive integration plan, which was soon formalized and approved.

Case Study:
Implementing an MSO Operating Model

The Issue:

A major MSO was considering re-deploying its resources and implementing new tools and processes in order to enhance network performance, reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction and allow align operations to more effectively support multiple products.

The Solution:

IBB worked closely with senior management teams to design a converged operating model for data, voice and video, aligned to the creation of regional structures. Drawing on our organizational change expertise, we developed a vision for regionalization and assembled detailed templates to guide implementation. These included new Regional Operating Centers and Technical Assistance Centers, as well as realignments of Regional Data Centers, Engineering and Customer Care. In parallel work streams, IBB-led teams worked on the deployment of new network tools, architecture definition, and the development of consistent metrics, all designed to enable the converged model and facilitate the new organizations' processes. Finally, IBB worked with the first region's implementation and its teams.

The Result:

The success of the first implementation has provided a successful template for pursuing the initiative nationally, where the MSO anticipates annual savings in excess of $50 MM in capital and operating costs. In addition, network performance, product rollout speed and support and customer satisfaction have measurably improved.

Case Study:
Launching a New Digital Video Product

The Issue:

In the face of increasing competition for its basic video subscriber base, a large MSO engaged IBB to help define, develop, test and implement a new digital video product that would enable them to provide greater value to basic video subscribers and accelerate their progress down the "All-Digital" path.

The Solution:

IBB worked with a cross-functional senior leadership team to define and implement the new digital video product in a number of trial markets. We worked with call center management, operations and marketing leadership to define product trial parameters and metrics, measure trial success, develop sales and marketing guidelines for the product launch, and evaluate the impact of product (including features such as VOD) on basic subscriber video retention. In conjunction with the product trial launch, we performed a detailed analysis of video product churn and pricing.

The Result:

IBB's insightful analysis of product performance, churn, implementation guidelines and cannibalization impacts allowed our client to successfully launch the product throughout its footprint, significantly increase retention and provide greater value to its basic subscribers. The new product will continue to play a key role in the development of our client's "triple play" strategy.

Case Study:
Managing Set Top Box Platform Development

The Issue:

A leading MSO sought to integrate the OCAP software platform into their set-top boxes to enable the deployment of more converged video, TV and ultimately voice applications, such as interactive TV, Caller ID and e-mail/voice mail notification.

The Solution:

IBB had two key roles within the program. As overall program managers, we designed the governance structure for this innovative project, established functional groups across internal and external parties with clear and effective communication, and oversaw the management of all work streams, including business, development, testing and deployment. Acting as the end-to-end system integration authority, we created an approach to integration and testing that ensured clarity and understanding of a most complex solution, and drove quality across the development, integration and test lifecycle by assigning accountability for deliverables at every stage. We also enabled timely, pair-wise integration of components and thorough testing of the end-to-end solution.

The Result:

Upon complete and successful integration of the new platform, the MSO will be able to offer its customers services that maximize the convergence opportunities within the "triple play" solution, thereby increasing customer loyalty, reducing churn, and keeping our client ahead in this highly competitive new market.

Case Study:
Launching Commercial Market Initiatives

The Issue:

In order to expand the delivery of its video, high-speed Internet and voice products into the commercial sector, an MSO engaged IBB to help evaluate market opportunities and create a market entry strategy.

The Solution:

Working with the client's key stakeholders, we used financial and industry analytics to prioritize products and vertical markets. After gaining senior management approval on a market entry strategy, we defined the product portfolio, established a pricing strategy, analyzed technical requirements, and worked with cross-functional teams to trial and launch the products. We then managed the product development and launch programs, establishing business processes, organizational structure, training and partnering programs.

The Result:

The MSO was able to launch and operate its products to the commercial market quickly and efficiently with great business results. The commercial sector is now a centerpiece of our client's growth strategy, and we continue to work together to establish product line extensions and develop market entry strategies for additional verticals within this sector.

Case Study:
Enabling VoIP Deployment Readiness

The Issue:

A large MSO wanted to add voice to its portfolio of services, which would place new demands on the RF (HFC) distribution network delivering services to its subscribers' homes. IBB stepped in with a mandate to help get the distribution network ready to support the MSO's voice strategy.

The Solution:

IBB worked with the MSO and industry experts to identify key requirements for a voice-grade distribution network. We then mapped these requirements into an actionable certification process for the distribution network's nodes. Following this process until all requirements were met across a set of nodes, systems could certify unequivocally that that part of the distribution network was voice-grade. IBB then orchestrated a regular forum wherein systems could exchange lessons learned and report on their progress toward full certification.

The Result:

Voice is now a key component of the MSO's value proposition, and it continues to gain strength as more of its systems complete VoIP readiness certification. Throughout deployment, the certified distribution network has proven its ability to support voice.

Case Study:
Enabling Wireless Partnership with an MSO

The Issue:

A wireless company with no prior experience with MSO culture, technical architecture or product lines asked IBB to help explore potential partnership deals.

The Solution:

Before entering into discussions with MSOs, the wireless company needed to know which type of deal would be most advantageous, and have a thorough understanding of the potential opportunities, costs, risks and issues associated with jointly offered products and services. IBB analyzed a range of potential deal structures, from co-branding to joint venture, highlighting the most attractive options. For each potential deal structure, we identified different products and services, showing how the specific technology platforms and competencies of both parties could be combined. We also analyzed the costs and benefits, pinpointing any potential challenges to future implementation.

The Result:

Educated on relevant MSO topics and armed with a guidebook that IBB developed to assist with negotiations, the wireless company was able to establish an advantageous MSO partnership.

Case Study:
Assessing Wireless Broadband Technologies

The Issue:

A wireless company was concerned that start-ups and other carriers could use next-generation wireless broadband capabilities such as Wi-Max for competitive advantage. IBB was engaged to conduct strategic analysis of potential impact on the company's business model, and assess the business, technical and operational viabilities of alternative technologies such as Wi-Fi Mesh.

The Solution:

IBB compared the new broadband wireless technologies' costs, capabilities and maturity to those of current-generation 2G/3G technologies, resulting in a portfolio of market/technology combinations for analysis. We then conducted "multiple-lens" analyses, encompassing industry and market trends, customer composition and needs, capital and operating costs, technical parameter comparisons, handsets and consumer devices, applications and requirements, R&D capability curves, and spectrum costs and capabilities. In order to determine the most practical Wi-Fi mesh approach, we assessed the technology for reliability and real-world performance, as well as ability to support mobility, QoS and security. We also analyzed the viability of several hypothesized "siting" density approaches to develop a scenario-based revenue model.

The Result:

IBB identified a range of potential market opportunities and alternative technologies. Armed with a detailed business, technical and operational understanding of Wi-Fi Mesh, senior executives approved a trial launch of the technology prior to full-scale commercial launch.

Case Study:
Launching a New Wireless Product

The Issue:

A wireless company was preparing to launch a leading-edge wireless product under an aggressive schedule, and sought IBB's assistance to evaluate its risks from a technical, business, regulatory and operational perspective.

The Solution:

IBB conducted an in-depth review of all aspects of the product and its implementation program, including analysis of the technology's feasibility, vendor reliability, voice quality on un-managed networks, partnership model analysis, operational requirements and market potential. We also conducted an assessment of the program team's ability to successfully deploy the product on time. This entailed a rapid discovery of the major issues faced by the team and potential team culture impediments, along with the development of recommendations for corrective actions. IBB worked to improve team performance, cohesiveness and morale by driving all aspects of the program team from sales and marketing through handset and network development.

The Result:

The company gained a thorough understanding of the new product's key parameters for success, and was able to proceed with an on-time launch. In addition, IBB introduced new concepts and ideas to the client that will consistently improve how its products are launched in the future.

Case Study:
Planning a Rapid IPv6 Migration

The Issue:

A major MSO needed to start planning the deployment of IPv6 technology to sustain the forecasted rollouts of IP-enabled devices (cable modems, STBs and MTA) as the risk of IPv4 address shortage loomed.

The Solution:

IBB spearheaded a cross-divisional effort to identify and analyze the needs for IPv6 deployment, define the technical and resource requirements for IPv6 support, and plan the migration roadmaps for networks, devices and services. We also worked with senior management to help communicate the urgency of the initiative to various business units and organize individual efforts among multiple groups. Concurrently, we participated in fast-tracking the inclusion of IPv6 into new DOCSIS standards and STB specifications to accelerate the availability of IPv6-enabled equipment and devices.

The Result:

The MSO has made IPv6 migration one of its top five priorities. Multiple work streams are ongoing to plan the migration of the networks and systems to IPv6 in the shortest possible timeframe, while standards bodies and vendors are actively engaged to satisfy the MSO's requirements to support IPv6.

Case Study:
Defining On Demand Business Models

The Issue:

A committee of MSOs, content providers, aggregators and advertisers approached IBB to produce a concise set of descriptions for the various business models in use in the industry. The models needed to describe key characteristics of Free, Transactional and Subscription On Demand revenues and associated costs. However, in order for the committee to share all necessary information, a confidential third party was needed to collect, disguise and interpret the data.

The Solution:

Working collaboratively with client staff, IBB conducted a series of 20 interviews with industry leaders. We then mined the raw interviews and collected data to produce a comprehensive view of cost structures, revenues and adoption metrics for the On Demand business. The data also generated thematic insights into the issues of the day.

The Result:

The final report was presented at the client's annual meeting and went on to serve as the official position on the industry's business model. In addition, our report has led to a common understanding between content providers and MSOs on key issues including cost structures, advertising and interactivity.

Case Study:
Cable Product Pricing Strategy

The Issue:

A leading MSO sought to understand its options for pricing its core video, data and phone products, and evaluating pricing strategies that would increase customer loyalty in the face of new and existing competitors.

The Solution:

IBB helped identify potential pricing strategies, and developed a financial model to test relevant options.

The Result:

Supported by IBB's analysis and recommendations, senior client executive made the decision to broaden the pricing pilot to an enterprise-wide initiative. IBB's operational support helped to enable a successful launch of the implementation phase of the program.

Case Study:
Advanced Advertising

The Issue:

A consortium of MSOs set out to create a scalable market and extensible platform for iTV advertising in order to respond to the competitive threat from the internet search companies.

The Solution:

IBB worked directly with senior executives to categorize and define business requirements around the key functional areas that constituted a common central system.

The Result:

IBB set up a PMO to select technology partners to build the platform, developed the business plan, facilitated the transition of business to technical requirements, and prepared a roadmap for successful system build out and operation.

Case Study:
IPTV Business Strategy & Design

The Issue:

A major cable firm sought to launch a premium IPTV service.

The Solution:

Before making a potentially significant investment in this consumer technology, the client required highly detailed analysis, covering the competitive landscape, internal capabilities, features of highest interest to the target segment, and impact on internal operations.

The Result:

IBB prepared a roadmap for development of the IPTV industry, outlining the characteristics of the product and its implications for the MSOs value proposition.

Case Study:
MSO New eCommerce Site

The Issue:

A major MSO engaged IBB to support the development and execution for a new e-Commerce site.

The Solution:

As part of this engagement, IBB ensured consistency of technical capabilities and objectives, conducted a gap analysis on proposed new functionality, and created the technical roadmap.

The Result:

IBB finalized architectures for first generation and future functionality, created uses cases to inform functionality requirements, determined product catalog strategy and approach, and established a PMO to manage and coordinate the site build.

Case Study:
Non-Linear Multiplatform TV Network Development

The Issue:

A joint venture between two movie studios and a cable MSO sought IBB's assistance with launching a multiplatform TV network on VOD, broadband, and mobile.

The Solution:

IBB was involved with the early strategy phases on through to the development and successful launch of the network. Specific areas of focus included revenue model and financial analysis for the network launch, mobile commerce and content strategy, and technology architecture definition.

The Result:

Following the launch IBB is now developing the network strategy for Web 2.0 and mobile.

Case Study:
Studio Digital Strategy and Organizational Alignment

The Issue:

A television studio was looking for additional revenue opportunities in the digital area and wanted advice on how best to integrate a recent acquisition with its existing organization, as well as with its traditional studio operations.

The Solution:

IBB developed a digital revenue strategy based on a comprehensive market analysis of digital opportunities and best practices across broadband, mobile, VOD, and HD platforms.  IBB benchmarked the organizational structures of other television and movie studios, and identified best practices for integration and governance between the client's traditional and digital business units.  We then developed options and recommendations for organizing the integrated digital group.   

The Result:

The client was armed with effective strategies for increasing digital revenue and optimizing the organizational structure.

Case Study:
International Advertising Syndication and Monetization

The Issue:

A major broadband video provider asked IBB to assist with efforts to monetize international markets through video syndication and partnering with local ad network providers.

The Solution:

IBB helped evaluate the most valuable markets by traffic and CPMs, assisted in selecting and negotiating with overseas ad networks, and oversaw the testing and integration of the client and partner ad serving platforms.

The Result:

IBB assessed the risks of continuing with the existing domestic ad-serving provider and, in cooperation with the client team, directed the immediate implementation of an alternate platform.

Case Study:
Broadband Platform Re-Launch

The Issue:

A multiplatform network wanted to redesign its broadband portal with the latest technology, improving the user experience, and improving advertising revenues.

The Solution:

IBB developed the technical architecture and helped determine the business requirements and features.

The Result:

In addition, IBB developed an advertising strategy in harmony with the target audience and desired user experience, and assisted with program management, vendor negotiation and implementation of the new site.

Case Study:
Fixed Mobile Convergence Product Launch

The Issue:

A major mobile operator was interested in introducing a new product which allowed seamless transfer from its cellular networks to any WiFi network.

The Solution:

IBB was responsible for all phases of development of the Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA) product: from concept to the initial market launch. This included Strategy, Technical Architecture, Handset Design, Negotiation with Handset Vendors, Design and Execution of the Customer Experience Testing Program, Sales and Marketing Strategy, Launch Management.

The Result:

The mobile operator launched the product successfully and has seen an increase in net subscriber additions and reduced customer churn. With this project, IBB established itself as the world-wide leader in developing end-to-end solutions for UMA.

Case Study:
VoIP Strategy for an MVNO

The Issue:

Our client, a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), wanted to gain a better understanding of Voice over IP (VoIP) technology and the competitive threat and/or opportunity to its business.

The Solution:

IBB developed a detailed market and technology analysis to determine the options open to the MVNO.

The Result:

The outcome was a recommendation for the MVNO to focus on developing an in-door network service offering.

Case Study:
Mobile TV Network Launch

The Issue:

A major motion picture studio was launching its first exclusively mobile TV network and its first linear TV network in the U.S.

The Solution:

IBB lead the efforts in four key areas in preparation for the launch: determining requirements for programming and operations, evaluating technology and service vendors, defining the operational model for the network, and developing a roadmap to launch.

The Result:

IBB helped the client to launch the network from scratch.

Case Study:
Dual Mode Handset (DMH) Service Relaunch

The Issue:

A wireless operator had launched a DMH service but had not achieved the commercial success that it had expected.

The Solution:

IBB conducted a detailed analysis of what had gone wrong in marketing and operations. IBB also identified corrective actions.

The Result:

The service is currently in the process of being re-launched.

Case Study:
UMA-Based Femto Cell (Architecture Design Support)

The Issue:

A wireless technology vendor wanted to launch a Femto Cell product into the market place to leap frog their competitors.

The Solution:

IBB was responsible for articulating the customer need, developing a comprehensive suite of functional requirements and working on the functional architecture.

The Result:

The product launched successfully, allowing the vendor to regain market share against competitors.

Case Study:
Mobile TV Strategy

The Issue:

A broadband television aggregator sought IBB's recommendation for extending its 250+ channels of content from broadband to mobile.

The Solution:

IBB modeled the market size, growth, revenue potential, demographics, and content applicability and made technology recommendations concerning optimal networks, codecs, and partners (e.g. 3G vs. DVB-H vs. MediaFlo; On-deck vs. Off-deck)

The Result:

The broadband television aggregator folded IBB's research into its development plans.

Case Study:
Digital Life Management - Strategy and Architecture

The Issue:

A major cable company needed a product and technology strategy for a new digital life product that encompassed residential home security, energy management, and family life management. The project was to pull together existing technology platforms and network capabilities to deliver an exciting new product fully integrated into other subscriber services. IBB was engaged to help with the product definition, pull together market research and analyst reports, support the development of the business case, and shape the overall technical architecture.

The Solution:

IBB created the technical architecture detailing the network components and supporting back office elements. To validate the concepts on platform reuse, IBB re-used a framework to perform a technical capability gap analysis that clearly showed by functional area where augmented facility was needed. This analysis made it possible to perform a high level scope of the effort and draw conclusions about potential ROI.

The Result:

IBB created the product requirements document that defined the subscriber offering, along with functional technical documentation decomposed into executable workstreams. IBB was engaged to read out in front of a senior approval panel comprising of leadership and key stakeholders. The work was subsequently used as the prime focus of corporate strategy technical brief on extracting new value from existing investment.

Case Study:
Digital Services Strategy

The Issue:

A major cable company wanted to refine its long-term product strategy.  Given growing  competition from Telcos, Satellite and OTT providers, the client had to understand which themes were most important to customers’ future expectations. IBB was asked to assess the strategic implications of aligning the client’s near and long-term plans with these consumer themes.

The Solution:

To provide context, IBB began the initiative by conducting industry interviews to vet customer needs. This primary research was reviewed with the client leadership team and distilled into ten over-riding consumer themes.  Using these themes, IBB focused the next phase on defining an extensive number of product use cases and identifying the technical capabilities which enable them.  We also developed a re-usable framework for prioritizing each use case and analyzing the recurrence of each technical capability.  Finally, IBB scored portfolio readiness by mapping capabilities to specific projects / initiatives either on-going or planned within the client organization.

The Result:

IBB presented a comprehensive portfolio analysis to the client’s C-level community with targeted recommendations  for areas requiring additional focus.  Additionally, the MSO’s product management organization adopted the re-usable framework that IBB created during this engagement, which it will use to refresh consumer themes and product use cases going forward.

Case Study:
Converged Broadband Video Strategy

The Issue:

A smaller tier MSO sought to launch an entitled broadband video portal to protect its existing video subscriber base.  To simplify future operations, the client mandated that the broadband video portal share a common infrastructure with the existing VOD service and enable capabilities that would form a clearer path to IPTV. 

The Solution:

IBB first worked with the client’s product development group to baseline a product roadmap and release schedule.  Using IBB’s wealth of expertise in broadband video, we rapidly developed a set of use cases and underlying functional requirements to enable the first few phases of this roadmap.  We then ran detailed workshops with the MSO’s existing VOD vendors to identify key technology gaps in meeting these requirements.

The Result:

Using input from VOD, IPTV and traditional BBV vendors, IBB created a set of solution architecture options and ultimately a recommendation, which was presented to the client’s senior leadership team.  This recommendation was supported by underlying cost analysis for each of the technology scenarios presented.

Case Study:
Converged Wireless Service Strategy and Implementation

The Issue:

The client was given executive approval and funding to deploy a prototype wireless service offering that leveraged their significant investment in outdoor and indoor Wi-Fi.  The operator wanted to ensure that their market trial was a success and that a foundation was set to gain overall organizational support, setting the stage for further investments in wireless.

The Solution:

IBB leveraged its extensive knowledge of wireless product development, network engineering and operations to develop a robust “go to market” implementation plan and assisted with its execution.  In addition, IBB leveraged its FMC expertise to help optimize the converged service experience when connected to either a cellular or Wi-Fi network with particular reference to the development of the handset software.

The Result:

The wireless market trial was a success and demonstrated the potential opportunity of wireless for the client’s subscriber base. The results enabled the client team to move the wireless program onto a full scale deployment and subsequent commercial launch.

Case Study:
Customer Facing Knowledge Base

The Issue:

To enable improved customer experience and self-help via an external portal, the MSO was looking to develop a solution and content for its external portal.  The MSO needed a solution to span various divisions which use different technologies to provide its services, as well as different underlying systems for their delivery and support.

The Solution:

Utilizing IBB experience and market analysis, IBB designed a solution, for an external customer facing knowledge base to be integrated into the MSO’s new Customer Portal.  The solution took into consideration users that are authenticated versus non-authenticated and localized versus non-localized.  The design allowed for certain content and FAQs to be more prominent than others based on number of views and customer rating.

The Result:

Based on IBB’s analysis and design, the MSO was able to deploy to the customer portal a solution that has seen more success than anticipated with higher than projected customer traffic.  The site’s Google ranking has surpassed those of all the MSO’s other sites and was nominated “Project of the Year” by the underlying knowledge management software vendor.

Case Study:
MSO Business Services Operations Model and Process Design

The Issue:

Having fragmented support for fiber based business services, the MSO sought better understand the market opportunity for business services and re-design their operations to support a largely untapped market. BHN was looking to build a supporting infrastructure (OSS applications, organization and processes) to account for stringent SLAs for its Business customers and integration with their other residential and small business operations groups.

The Solution:

IBB assessed the existing support for enterprise/fiber services and identified key gaps with respect to the business targets (including competitive positioning). IBB then worked across sales, national network operations, local management centers, business services, engineering, and customer care to design business support into the operational processes.  Achieving an optimal solution required understanding each organizations’ constraints and goals, working to reach a consensus on internal SLAs and exception processes, organizational changes to support the new operational processes, and updated OSS tools and systems.

The Result:

Utilizing IBB’s organizational and process designs, technology recommendations, and transition plan, the MSO was able to create a Business Services environment which would support some of the largest North American Carriers as well as smaller Enterprise businesses.

Case Study:
Mobile Broadband Data Launch for the MSO

The Issue:

A large cable MSO sought IBB’s assistance to launch their first mobile broadband data service, in order to protect and increase the value of its bundled services, and leverage their investment in a new 4G network service provider

The Solution:

IBB started by developing a go-to-market playbook and define cross functional requirements to drive towards launch. Using our long experience in large scale program execution, we then set up a governance structure and program office to manage the end-to-end service deployment from marketing, products, IT, and sales/care operations, in coordination with the wholesale network providers.

The Result:

The client MSO was the first one to rollout a next-generation mobile broadband offering in the US. The program quickly scaled to launch successfully in 5 additional markets, and expand the product portfolio and service plan options.

Case Study:
Marketing Strategic Planning

The Issue:

A Marketing Co-op sought to update its strategic plan to help its member companies increase sales, improve efficiency and combat competitive threats.

The Solution:

IBB led an analysis of the competition and assessed the current activities of the Co-op.  We helped the client develop a Strategic Vision to guide the analysis.  We developed a number of strategic options and helped the client narrow the opportunities to a manageable portfolio.  We then developed a strategic plan and financial model to clarify the revenue and cost drivers.  IBB supported the executive reviews of the plan with the Co-op’s Chief Marketing Officers to gain buy-in.

The Result:

The client was armed with a focused, actionable plan for sales growth.  The strategic planning exercise resulted in the successful allocation of budget to the recommended plan, which is being implemented with IBB’s support.

Case Study:
Merger Strategy for a TV Network

The Issue:

A joint venture between a cable operator and a cable MSO sought IBB’s assistance with merging and integrating a new TV network.

The Solution:

First, IBB performed a due diligence and a gap analysis on all cross-functional areas that were impacted by the integration. Then, IBB developed a comprehensive strategic plan that laid out options for transitioning all functional areas in the short term, mid  term and long term, identified transitional services required by function, and evaluated and finalized options for the joint management structure.

The Result:

The client was armed with a transition plan to enable roll out of all steps required for a successful integration and the re-launch of the TV network.

Case Study:
Enabling EBIF Advanced Advertising for a Major MSO

The Issue:

A successful launch of Advanced Advertising, a  major revenue opportunity for Cable MSOs, required significant and rapid business, technical and operational changes– from business planning through implementation—across the client organization.

The Solution:

Working with a senior cross-functional team, IBB helped define the major marketing, technical, operational and deployment aspects of the EBIF-based Advanced Advertising service. IBB then worked closely with staff in each area to capture the product offerings and positioning, detailed deployment steps, operational steps, and infrastructure descriptions in an end-to-end playbook. With the goal to facilitate each market’s deployment, the playbook consolidates the information needed for a wide audience including Advertising Sales, Advertising Sales Operations, Marketing, Technical Operations and Customer Care.

The Result:

With IBB’s support in providing key recommendations, enabling decisions across the organization , enshrining them in the playbook and leading the launch management, the client successfully deployed EBIF applications in their largest market, and is proceeding to aggressively scale them across their footprint.

Case Study:
Enabling EBIF Advanced Advertising for a Major MSO

The Issue:

Successful launch of Advanced Advertising, a  major revenue opportunity for Cable MSOs, required significant and rapid business, technical and operational changes– from business planning through implementation—across the client organization

The Solution:

Working with a senior cross-functional team, IBB helped define the major marketing, technical, operational and deployment aspects of the EBIF based Advanced Advertising service. These critical aspects were then captured in an end-to-end playbook with the goal to consolidate the information needed to support client’s divisions and business owners as they prepare for, implement, and deploy the EBIF infrastructure and roll-out of EBIF applications. The playbook targeted a wide audience including Marketing & Sales, Advertising Sales Operations, Technical Operations and Customer Care.

The Result:

With IBB’s support in providing key recommendations, enabling decisions across the organization , enshrining them in the playbook and leading the launch management, the client successfully deployed EBIF applications in their largest market, has made public commitments to Wall Street and is in the process of scaling them across their footprint.

Case Study:
Online, Mobile News Site Strategy and Launch

The Issue:

A media conglomerate wished to launch an innovative online magazine / news service targeting busy professionals with both original and aggregated content.

The Solution:

IBB worked side-by-side with senior executives on business strategy, product roadmap definition, advertising product definition, business case development, operational design, content sourcing, business development, and vendor selection and negotiations.  IBB led marketing strategy development, including PR, social media, traffic partnerships and email marketing.  We facilitated an iterative launch plan with regular, staged rollouts of new content modules and functionality.  We also supported the organization design, recruitment and evaluation of the business, operations, and technology team members, helping the client to build the required organization.

The Result:

The service launched on schedule, delivering more traffic than expected, and won significant media coverage.

Case Study:
Competitive Response Playbook

The Issue:

The client is in competition with both Verizon’s FiOS and AT&T’s U-verse and wanted to know how to react to this threat both from a national and regional level.  They requested the IBB survey the individual markets to mine best practices at to share them across all markets in an easy-to-understand competitive playbook.

The Solution:

IBB worked with both Corporate and Regional Competitive marketing teams to understand the competitive challenges were.  Interviews were conducted with each of the markets and common best practices were distilled into a playbook that outlined a 4-step approach to ensure current intelligence on the competition and that the tactics were working.  Case studies for each of the regions were developed to provide real-life examples in handling the competition.  Additionally, up-to-date quantitative information was provided to understand the overlapping homes passed and competitive number of customers and a metrics report to manage competitive tactics was created.

The Result:

A competitive playbook was used within the markets to take advantage of best practices in other markets and a feedback loop was proposed in order to keep tactics fresh.  Additionally, markets had access to a national competitive database to understand what was being done outside of their areas that they used to evolve their response to the competition.

Case Study:
Digital Content Streaming Service

The Issue:

To enhance its position as an innovative leader in the digital media space, generate incremental high-margin transactional and subscription revenue and reverse falling volume of DVD sales by increasing the value of owning the physical product, a leading media and entertainment provider planned to launch an online environment for customers to buy, rent and watch movies and related content online.

The Solution:

IBB supported the client from the early strategy phase through implementation by: creating the business case and defining a product roadmap and phased roll-out plan to support multiple business models; creating a strategic architecture for the solution development, identifying vendors to provide core platform capabilities on which a custom application was developed; defining a content strategy plan to support cross-organizational goals; outlining a customer care roadmap and through vendor analysis selecting a CRM platform on which to develop agent and self-care portals; establishing a PMO team to elicit and prioritize requirements and manage the scope through a multi-phase deployment plan, implement product development and change management processes, and manage multiple technology/creative vendors as well as client workstream activities.

The Result:

Armed with IBB vision, analysis, design and execution management, the client was able to launch two incremental beta releases of the streaming service, providing solid footing and direction for a broader (IBB led) launch of full functionality later this year.

Case Study:
Web Organization Consolidation

The Issue:

To reduce costs while improving quality, a leading entertainment company consolidated their web operations under one central interactive media group.  For this consolidation to be successful, operations would need to expand significantly and economies of scale would need to be realized.

The Solution:

IBB actively partnered with the client during the resource transition to define and execute a plan for improving web development efficiency and visibility.  A consistent approach to software development was established with clear standards for requirements and design deliverables.  Content management tools were built to put control of the web site directly into the hands of the producers and reduce reliance on technical resources.  SharePoint was used to provide senior executives with a much needed project-level view of operations and financials.

The Result:

IBB worked with the client to deliver on schedule, despite a culture that has typically not been driven by dates.  For the next release, improved processes around requirements, design, and QA are expected to deliver a 30% improvement in software development LOEs (from build to launch).

Case Study:
Broadband video strategy through implementation

The Issue:

To proactively meet their customer’s desire for discovering and enjoying video on multiple devices and to counter mounting competition from Telco and Internet video providers, a cable MSO sought IBB’s assistance with launching a broadband video product.

The Solution:

IBB actively partnered with the client from the early strategy phases on through to the development and successful launch of the broadband video solution.  Specific areas of focus included product strategy, business case development, requirements and RFP, architecture and design, implementation and launch.  Following the initial launch, IBB led efforts to define, architect and implement a paid offering to increase revenue.

The Result:

Supported by IBB’s analysis, recommendations and technical oversight, the client successfully launched the first national ‘TV Everywhere’ online video product in the world.  The broadband video service established itself as the premier online video service adding significant value to the Client’s video franchise. Moreover, the technical solution enabled the company’s path to IPTV with building blocks such as asset management and content delivery.

Case Study:
Business FMC Assessment

The Issue:

An integrated operator was in the process of launching a consumer focused Fixed Mobile Convergence (FMC) service offering. To extend this offering into the SME space, they wanted to understand in detail the options open to them from a customer needs, technology, and vendor standpoint.

The Solution:

IBB leveraged its prior knowledge of consumer and business focused FMC projects to help formulate a robust business FMC roadmap. The first task was to identity market segments that were a good fit for business FMC solutions and could be reasonably served by the operator’s market position and internal capabilities.  The next task was to identity viable technology solutions including functional architecture and alignment with consumer orientated technical solutions.

The final task was to align the market and technical options into a final set of recommendations and to develop a robust financial model.

The Result:

As a result of the IBB analysis the client identified key needs and technical offerings to serve the SME market.  The client was able to prioritize internal efforts and align technical roadmaps with those already implemented for the consumer FMC offering.

Case Study:
MSO SMB Growth Opportunities

The Issue:

To further strengthen and grow its share in SMB, a leading MSO was considering further expanding its value added services (VAS) by partnering with leading application providers to host/offer Cloud Computing applications and other services desired by SMB; and bundle them with current access and VAS.

The Solution:

IBB actively partnered with the client from the early strategy phases on through to the development of a go-to-market plan.  Specific areas of focus included demand analysis for Cloud Computing within the SMB, overview of peer and competitor strategies, the development of preferred options for the client across the value chain, revenue and cost projections, and development of an operating model across the MSO as well as an infrastructure partner

The Result:

Armed with the IBB analysis and the go-to-market plan, the MSO is ready to proceed with a market trial that will assess selling, support, and partner infrastructure objective required to proceed with a national deployment