How does Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise help business partners keep their portfolio futureproof? ALE offers European network and communication solutions with a focus on security, sustainability and compliance. An interview with Tom van Uffelen, Country Business Leader Benelux.
Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise (ALE) provides network and communication solutions for organizations across various sectors. Whether it concerns cloud, hybrid or on-premises solutions – the portfolio contains the full breadth of IT and UC. Everything is designed with security, sustainability and data protection as starting points.
European strength and reliability
“In a world where digital sovereignty is becoming increasingly important, trust in European technology is growing,” says Tom van Uffelen, Country Business Leader Benelux. “Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise – with more than one hundred years of experience – now supports more than one million customers worldwide. The solutions comply with both international standards and national regulations, with attention to privacy, security and environmental impact.”
Trends in telecom and IT
Tom van Uffelen: “You see it everywhere: networks are becoming smarter, communication more intuitive and security more fundamental. Some notable trends:
• Network management is becoming easier thanks to AI applications like our ‘Network Advisor’, which automatically detects and resolves failures, or proactively alerts the administrator.
• Security is central. Legislation such as NIS2 and DORA requires organizations to properly secure their infrastructure. This requires more than just firewalls.
• Zero Trust is becoming standard. With techniques such as Network Access Control, unauthorized access is prevented, even within the network.
• Branches have specific requirements. Think of certification of hardware and software in healthcare, government or industry. ALE meets many of these requirements and is therefore widely applicable.”
Communication solutions that adapt
“Whether your customer works with fixed telephony, DECT or cloud-based UC solutions – ALE will come with tools in the near future that fit every phase of digital transformation. With AI functions such as live translations, transcriptions and smart bots (already available) you support modern customer contacts and internal collaboration.”
“With the Rainbow platform you also have access to a flexible integration platform with which you connect existing systems. This gives you as a partner plenty of room to deliver customization and truly differentiate yourself.”
How do partners build a future-proof portfolio?
“A strong portfolio requires more than just the right technology. Think about:
• Market insight. Understand what your customers are struggling with, and which legislation is relevant to them.
• Willingness to innovate. You only truly discover many solutions when you work with them. So dare to experiment.
• Accessible onboarding. Nobody is waiting for long, complicated processes. ALE and distributor BusinessCom help you get started quickly.
• Collaboration. You don’t stand alone. As a partner you work together with teams that take your success seriously.”
Why ALE?
“Why you as a business partner should consider Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise solutions? Because you work with a European vendor that:
• Provides access to proven technology for network and communication;
• Leaves room for integration and customization;
• Actively responds to laws and regulations;
• Supports partners in building and expanding their proposition.
• Guarantees the continuity of its sustainable solutions, through clear lifecycle processes and long-term support.”
“In summary: Look carefully at how the market moves, consider how legislation such as NIS2 and DORA affects your offering, ensure that you include security as a starting point – not as an extra, work with vendors that have certifications in order – especially in specific branches, use integration to distinguish yourself and choose partners that invest in collaboration, not just in sales. In addition, Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise offers a partner program with additional benefits and its own portal.”