CZ : SK : EN : DE : FR : ES : RU

Telecommunications, software and IT market research

Leading global supplier of meteorological information and forecasts targeting prospects in CEE
Completion: 2010 - 05
Target markets: PL, CZ
Objective: A U.S. provider of meteorological information and forecasts requested assistance with identifying interested & interesting mobile carriers as well as newspapers and media companies with an online presence, and scheduling meetings with relevant prospects.
Results: The consultant introduced the client and its proposed partnership opportunity to 30 pre-selected companies in Poland. After identifying 6 highly interested and qualified prospects (e.g. the largest mobile operator in Poland and one of the biggest Polish cable TV operators), the consultant recommended the client to proceed with an in-market visit.
   

Market insight into the online and mobile games markets in the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary
Completion: 2010 - 04
Target markets: CZ&SK
Objective: EasyLink consultants were assigned to approach experts in the casual, social, MMORPG and mobile gaming sectors and interview them regarding the current market situation, structure and outlook.
Results: EasyLink interviewed 10 experts in each of the three countries and submitted their market insight views and opinions in a structured format so that project results could be easily compared across various countries.
   

Leading U.S. supplier of network testing equipment looking for European partners
Completion: 2009 - 08
Target markets: CZ&PL&TU
Objective: Our client, a leading U.S. manufacturer of data communications equipment for copper and fibre networks, is keen to expand its export markets and has therefore requested EasyLink's assistance to target suitable test and measurement distribution partners in Poland and the Czech Republic. Following successful completion in these two markets, EasyLink was commissioned to carry a project in Turkey.
Results: In the first stage, close to 50 Czech and Polish companies were identified and evaluated. The consultant then proceeded by interviewing managers of 41 Czech and Polish companies marked by the client as worth contacting and providing them with detailed information. The consultants followed up to acquire their responses once they had a chance to evaluate and discuss the opportunity internally. 4 Polish and 3 Czech companies showed keen interest in being contacted directly by the client to discuss business opportunities and possibilities for potential co-operation. In Turkey, the consultant identified 26 prospects, and upon client's comments, proceeded to contacting their managers. The client was then provided with detailed profiles of all qualified & keen partners.
   

Multi-step multi-country project: U.S. exporter of refurbished computers looking for new partners in the CEE region
Completion: 2009 - 05
Target markets: CZ&SK&PL
Objective: Our initial task was to identify and interview the leading importers of refurbished computers in the Czech Republic to determine their interest in talking to a new supplier and establish an English speaking contact. Within weeks of submitting our report, the client initiated an aggressive strategy to enter the CEE markets. EasyLink consulting team was entrusted with preparation of detailed meeting itineraries for the client's trip to the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland in May 2009; the trip was organized as part of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's trade mission.
Results: In the first phase, the consultant identified and approached ten leading importers and wholesalers of refurbished computers; a total of nine companies expressed interest in further talks. In the second stage, we scheduled altogether 14 meetings (all with highly qualified entities with confirmed interest) for the client's 5-day visit to Slovakia, Czech Republic and Poland. EasyLink was highly praised by the client: "I have just returned from the Eastern (Central as they like to say) European Mission. While I have had some great experiences with trade missions in the past; … I have to say that this was the most well organized, most thoroughly vetted and best run mission to date. The true measure of a successful mission is "Closed" sales, (which is up to me), but everything else was handled in a way that would surely make you proud! … I would like to give Kudos to Easy Link and their staff for a job well done. Thanks for everything you do for small biz ~~ the true jobs engine in the USA."
   

Targeting players on the IT market in Ukraine
Completion: 2009 - 04
Target markets: UA
Objective: Our client offers unified threat management solutions that provide the best combination of strong, reliable, multi-layered security with the best ease of use in its class. Their newest line of products makes secure remote access easy and affordable, regardless of the size of the network. The company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, with offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America. Although end users are typically SME's (5 to 500 employees), there has been an increased focus in Europe on the public sector with customer wins at the National Health Service in the UK and at various municipalities and local governments. EasyLink was requested to identify suitable partners in Ukraine and provide advice on what the potential market in the Baltics (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) and Romania could be and if it is felt appropriate to carry out a partner search in these countries.
Results: The consultant in Ukraine conducted desk research and interviews to explore the market potential, confirm the route to market and determine the most appropriate representatives for the company. 18 large and middle size businesses (all prominent players on Ukraine's IT market) were approached over the phone to identify the relevant point of contact, interviewed to establish their interest in partnering with the client, sent further information as requested and then contacted again for their decisions and statements.
   

Strategic marketing study of the Czech IT & BPO market
Completion: 2009 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: The Embassy of India in the Czech Republic approached EasyLink to request a strategic market sector analysis in the software, BPO and IT education market in the Czech Republic.
Results: EasyLink prepared an almost 90-page long detailed analysis of the markets of interest (Business Process Outsourcing, Knowledge Process Outsourcing and IT & ITO). The Czech Republic has been one of the most successful BPO and IT markets in the CEE region. Large cities such as Prague, Brno or Ostrava have become hubs of BPO operations with numerous large projects in the field. The study covered the size, structure and trends of individual segments as well as overview of IT education, end users and legal and technical considerations as well as work force data.
   

Manufacturer of fibre optic products targets the Czech market
Completion: 2009 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: We were asked to identify qualified and keen distribution partners with experience in delivery of optical networks components and measurement of optical networks for a U.S. manufacturer of fibre optic connectivity and management products, digital cross-connect systems, power distribution and protection products, equipment racks, cabinets and integrated solutions.
Results: EasyLink's consultant pre-selected and approached 33 potential partners with a proposal for cooperation, of which 3 companies (matching the client's criteria and with confirmed interest in cooperation) were recommended for further talks. The key reasons for a rather large number of negative responses were related to the rather strict selection criteria set by the client, namely the requirement of sole distributorship (not carrying competitive products) - local companies prefer to offer a broader portfolio of products to bring more choices to their customers.
   

Targeting all mobile operators in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2009 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A U.S. provider of real-time database virtualization solution that unifies data across multiple networks and businesses so customers can reduce total cost of ownership and deliver new services to market faster wished to make contact with major mobile network providers in the Czech Republic in advance of the GSMA Mobile World Congress held in Barcelona on 16-19 February 2009. EasyLink was further requested to arrange meetings at the event or afterwards.
Results: The Czech telecommunication industry has been rapidly developing in the last few years. Between 2000 and 2006, the industry revenues grew by 63% despite a significant decrease in prices of products and services charged to customers. The sector is dominated by multinational companies (O2, T-mobile and Vodafone) that acquired large local entities. The consultant made multiple phone calls to identify and verify relevant managers of all the major mobile network providers. Once the proper contact person was reached, the consultant discussed the offer with them and evaluated their level of interest in client's solutions. The consultant also provided the client with detailed profiles of all the four relevant prospects - mobile operators. One company expressed interest in direct talks.
   

Manufacturer of equipment for the cable broadcasting network seeks Czech partners
Completion: 2009 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned to carry out a matchmaking project for a supplier of optical modules and systems for transmitting analogue signals over fibre-optic links. The company utilizes their unique engineering expertise to provide advanced solutions for applications in Hybrid fibre-coax (HFC) of cable television, wireless repeaters, and Fibber-to-the-Home (FTTH). The company's goal was to further strengthen its presence in Europe as Eastern Europe (Russia, Ukraine, Romania) and Latin America (Mexico, Argentina) already belongs to its key export markets. Whilst the initial focus was directed to identifying companies selling to TV channels, feedback from the European market indicated that these companies were not the right target group, and therefore the strategy was shifted to companies that supply and sometimes manufacture technical equipment which in turn is then sold to companies who are in direct contact with Cable TV stations.
Results: Out of 35 distributors of CATV/HTF components the consultant identified and approached in the Czech Republic, 6 companies confirmed interest in further discussions with the client.
   

U.K. client seeking to strengthen presence in Poland and the Czech Republic
Completion: 2009 - 02
Target markets: CZ&PL
Objective: Our long-term client, Europe's largest IT network & telecommunications hardware repair organisation, wished to now establish direct contact with Czech and Polish systems integrators, network maintenance companies and Internet Service Providers.
Results: EasyLink's consultants identified and contacted 14 Czech and 23 Polish companies to evaluate their interest for collaborating with the client. We recommended the client to begin direct talks with the top three candidates, one of them being Telekomunikacja Polska S.A., the biggest player on the Polish market.
   

Indian software outsourcing company looking for opportunities in the Czech financial sector
Completion: 2009 - 01
Target markets: CZ
Objective: The client considered entering the Czech market through a joint venture with a Czech partner. They requested information on the Czech financial sector, labour force costs and availability as well as state subsidies for software development projects. They also assigned EasyLink to select and recommend business partners interested in potential cooperation/joint-venture among local software companies delivering to the financial sector.
Results: EasyLink provided an extensive report on the financial sector, namely banks and insurance companies active in the Czech Republic, their market shares and recent trends and development. Labour costs of various IT professionals and their sources (faculties with IT majors, number of grads etc.) were listed. Major subsidy programmes operated by CzechInvest and the Ministry of Industry and Trade were described in detail. EasyLink's consultant selected 17 potential business partners, out of which 7 agreed to meet and discuss potential cooperation. A detailed itinerary was prepared. EasyLink's consultant accompanied the client to all meetings to provide in-market support and other assistance.
   

U.S. producer of simulators looking to appoint a local representative in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2009 - 01
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A U.S. based producer of simulators for commercial and military applications sought our assistance in identifying prospective distribution partners and representatives in the Czech Republic.
Results: We screened over 100 companies (small and medium-size enterprises as well as large organizations involved in foreign trade with military equipment) to pre-select 22 entities for in-depth scrutiny by the client.
   

Identifying prospective small IT companies in Hungary
Completion: 2008 - 12
Target markets: HU
Objective: Our U.S. client, an IT services company providing assistance with helpdesk, software, LAN networks and web development and experienced in working with foreign governments and NATO, was looking to expand into new markets, and Hungary, a NATO member with relatively low labour costs, constituted a very interesting country. The client would like to partner with local, small IT firms so that they can begin teaming on and bidding NATO contracts. We were asked to develop a short-list of Hungarian IT companies that have NATO-clearance and/or defence-industry references and provide names, websites, contact details and short profiles. At this time we were not to contact the companies to evaluate their qualification and interest.
Results: EasyLink consultant in Hungary acquired a list of NATO-cleared suppliers from the Hungarian Ministry of Defence. The list included a total of 327 companies, of which 46 indicated information technology in their list of activities. The NATO BOA website listed additional 5 companies that have supplied NATO in the past but no longer hold current NATO clearances. We narrowed our final list to 27 companies with the most potential for collaboration with the client.
   

Specialist Internet network testing equipment presented in Hungary
Completion: 2008 - 06
Target markets: HU
Objective: After successful collaboration with EasyLink in the spring of 2006 this U.S. supplier of network testing equipment now wishes to identify and approach prospective partners in Hungary, distributing to the telecommunications, software development and IT fields.
Results: Over 60 companies were initially screened and a total of 21 companies were approached by the consultant and evaluated as potential partners. Meetings with 7 companies (fulfilling selection criteria and ready to meet) were arranged.
   

Czech Republic and Poland: Producer of video analysis software seeking a local partner
Completion: 2008 - 05
Target markets: PL&CZ
Objective: A U.S. producer of video analysis software enlisted assistance to identify distributors in the Czech Republic and Poland experienced in homeland security and security services with established contacts with military advisors, military end users, correction officers and utility engineers.
Results: Close to 35 Czech and Polish pre-selected companies were contacted by EasyLink's consultants, and their potential and interest in becoming a partner were evaluated. In each country, 4 companies were recommended to the client for further communication regarding potential partnership.
   

Providing in-depth information on expertise of selected software companies in Slovakia
Completion: 2008 - 01
Target markets: SK
Objective: Our German client requested us to develop a database of Slovak IT companies.
Results: We identified relevant companies with JAVA, SQL, XML, HTML, Pro/Engineer and CATIA V5 capacities. The database contained 21 companies. Individual entries included very detailed information such as contact information, short profile, PC infrastructure of each company, number of employees, number of programmers, experience with PLM, CAD and ERP, interest in co-operation with a foreign PLM/CAD/ERP producer, turnover data, information on certificates, references (industries and clients), export countries, software products/services provided, company location and membership in associations.
   

U.S. software specialist expanding with its financial analysis Internet-based application to Hungary
Completion: 2007 - 12
Target markets: HU
Objective: Our client, an innovative and aggressive firm focused on building a global financial database of small to emerging growth businesses with users in over 30 countries, requested our assistance in selecting, identifying and contacting a selection of strategic prospective partners in Hungary, in several areas of business, from sector association to financial service providers to government agencies. The client's product is a free tool that analyzes a user's QuickBooks data, converts it from "accounting" to "English" and pushes it back to the users desktop in an easy to understand dashboard format.
Results: EasyLink's consultant in Hungary performed a partner search for qualified distributors, licensing partners and multipliers according to the client's search criteria and specifications. The final report included profiles of pre-screened companies together with contact information of key representatives as well as their professional opinion on the product and its application in the local market.
   

U.K. component level repair specialist for network equipment seeks repair partners in Poland
Completion: 2007 - 12
Target markets: PL
Objective: With an increase in the number of companies moving manufacturing operations to Central and Eastern Europe, our client (holding a worldwide reputation for component level repairs of network equipment) identified an opportunity for the group to further develop its business, and wished to identify existing companies with the ability to repair computers and peripherals that could develop a business of high-end network repair in Poland.
Results: The consultant in Poland initially developed a list of 20 companies involved in repairing computers and peripherals, such as printers, fax machines, laptops and scanners. Their managers were then contacted by phone in order to ascertain whether the companies constitute potential business partners, and provided with detailed information on the client's proposal. After reviewing the information, 8 companies expressed interest in co-operation and meeting client's representatives. Our results indicated that the client might engage in interesting and long-lasting co-operation with several leading IT and telecommunication companies in Poland.
   

Leading Czech data networks and telecommunication company targets customers in Romania
Completion: 2007 - 11
Target markets: RO
Objective: EasyLink was asked to identify prospective customers among government bodies (regional administration, municipalities and ministries) and introduce them our client's solutions in the field of integrated transport system, communication infrastructure of micro-regions (municipalities), high-speed performance and secure data networks, secure information for government and highway monitoring.
Results: The consultant in Romania approached key decision makers within governmental institutions in charge of public transport and communication infrastructure. Four institutions expressed interest in being visited by the client to discuss potential cooperation. EasyLink then prepared a detailed 2-day itinerary for the Czech client.
   

Multinational provider of next generation IP communications solutions looking for customers
Completion: 2007 - 09
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A provider of IP communications solutions enlisted EasyLink's services in locating target customers amongst the leading providers of telecommunications and data networks interested in supplying client's technology as an added value product to end users. Further, EasyLink was requested to provide market specific information on tax and duty liability, market acceptance and rules and details regarding equipment certification and homologation.
Results: EasyLink consulting team identified 4 potential partners in the market that is dominated by client's competitors.
   

Computer reseller providing IT hardware, software, networking and peripherals seeks a partner in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2007 - 08
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client requested assistance in finding a Czech partner for offshore development, focusing on document & records management, workflow and instruments for internal communication on .NET platform.
Results: 29 pre-selected companies - involved in software development, implementation and outsourcing in the Czech market - were interviewed and scrutinized to determine the level of capability to provide offshore software development as described and specified in the project specification. Criteria sheet was delivered to the pre-selected companies that confirmed their interest in partnership opportunity with the client. 9 positive leads with criteria sheets as well as their evaluation were delivered to the client.
   

Specialist producer of testing and development systems for telecommunications needs to strengthen distribution
Completion: 2007 - 05
Target markets: CZ
Objective: An innovative design and development company committed to providing the 'next generation' of telecommunications test solutions required support in strengthening their established distribution channels as well as evaluating alternative options and approaching potential customers as a joint effort with their current distributor.
Results: EasyLink's consultant in the Czech Republic identified local manufacturers of telecommunication equipment with interest in network infrastructure development and test equipment distributed by the client as well as companies involved in embedded software development. Our efforts were coordinated with our client's existing local distribution partner. The meeting itinerary (consisting of 6 face-to-face appointments) was arranged to allow for a visit to the local rep's office in Brno as well as individual meetings with software developers and joint meetings (attended by the client and the local rep) with potential buyers.
   

German provider of software training programs for engineering companies seeking prospective clients
Completion: 2007 - 05
Target markets: SK
Objective: Our task was to provide a competitive landscape overview and insight into the target industries and follow by direct sales-oriented contacts with all key prospective customers to confirm their interest in meeting the client.
Results: EasyLink delivered a study of the engineering and automotive industries covering also competitive technical software training programs with a detailed description of major competitors, including their pricing. We contacted several dozens prospective customers and identified 7 potential clients with confirmed interest in new training programs.
   

Series of projects for a U.S. specialist in computing platforms & forensic terminals
Completion: 2007 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was asked to carry multiple projects, from identification of sales potential and leads in the Czech Republic to approaching prospective customers/partners to scheduling meetings with the best prospects. Our client is a unique U.S. manufacturer of made-to-order state-of-the-art computing platforms used by armed forces command organizations in the U.S. and NATO, and of forensic terminals for certified federal, state and local law enforcement, intelligence and security professionals. Our client's platforms enable to safely and effectively preview, acquire, recover, catalogue, analyze and verify electronic information from various devices.
Results: Following a preparatory stage to create an initial list of 24 companies for further screening, EasyLink was requested to contact appropriate companies from the initial list, as well as additional companies identified based on extended criteria, and assess their qualification. EasyLink presented 6 companies - qualified and interested in being considered as prospective partners to represent the client in the Czech Republic. The client responded by confirming his visit to the market to conduct one-to-one meetings.
   

U.S. software company looking at potential M&A targets
Completion: 2007 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client was looking for acquisition targets in the segment of software development. Specific criteria were set, including company turnover and service portfolio.
Results: EasyLink identified a total of 16 companies meeting the given criteria, and presented them in detailed profiles, inviting the client to proceed to personal visits and meetings, background checks or other tasks, as appropriate.
   

U.K. component level repair specialist for network equipment seeks partners in Central Europe
Completion: 2007 - 01
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client's interest in the Czech Republic was as an outsourcing destination for network peripheral repair that will allow to offer current clients, e.g. leading telecommunication companies, a comprehensive repair and maintenance service economically and with a high degree of competence. The client would send such peripherals from the U.K. to the Czech company for repair. The Czech partners would thus be able to add high-end network repair services to their portfolio, and will be expected to pass this repair business back to the client.
Results: Out of 26 companies involved in repair and service of peripheral equipment, IT and office technology EasyLink identified and interviewed, 10 companies expressed interest in meeting the client to discuss potential cooperation. EasyLink then prepared a 5-day itinerary; the remote location of several companies required quite extensive travel arrangements. Most prospective partners started their business by importing and reselling IT equipment (PC, laptops, printers, scanners etc.) and gradually transformed themselves into primarily repair and service providers, though a number of potential partners were still involved in resale of either new or remanufactured equipment.
   

Leading U.K. provider of test solutions for telecoms and IT products targets Poland
Completion: 2006 - 06
Target markets: PL
Objective: Our client's aim was to gradually establish a distribution network worldwide, and as part of its expansion strategy the company wanted to develop presence in Poland. The company was confident that a market exists for their product in C&EE (existing partners in Hungary and Romania), as it had received direct feedback from potential clients in the region. The client's equipment focuses on test systems for different stages of production, from product development testing, through to functional end-of-line product testing, as well as pre-compliance and full compliance & Quality Assurance tests. The focus of this project was on 3 products: analogue telecom conformance test solution, xDSL electrical characteristics test solution and xDSL compatibility & interoperability test solution.
Results: EasyLink first researched the Polish market to identify distributors of test and measuring equipment for the telecommunication sector; we utilized resources such as "Elektronik" (a monthly trade magazine), National Symposium of Telecommunication Technology online catalogue and various databases. 16 prospects were contacted by phone to find out details about their operations, and client's products and business proposition were presented to their managers who were them contacted again to obtain feedback about their interest in co-operation. Two companies were recommended for direct talks.
   

Internet/telecom network testing - emulators, traffic generators - partner search
Completion: 2006 - 06
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A U.S. supplier of network testing equipment presented EasyLink with a task of identifying and approaching prospective representatives with significant customer base in the telecommunications, software development, and IT fields, and preparing a meeting itinerary with relevant partners with whom the company's president would meet during his trip to the Czech Republic.
Results: EasyLink recommended a total of 5 potential partners for representing the company on the Czech market. Following the business visit, the client appointed one of the five companies its market representative.
   

German customer wishes to buy large quantities of software in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2006 - 05
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was requested to identify sound resellers of software (Symantec, Veritas, Adobe and Macromedia) in Czech Republic capable of providing competitive rates, and set up meetings with the top candidates.
Results: The consultant approached 7 pre-selected suppliers and requested their managers to provide quotes for the particular software products selected by the client. We then evaluated their quotes and scheduled a series of meetings with resellers offering the most competitive prices.
   

Research of the regulatory status in the Czech telecom sector
Completion: 2006 - 01
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our task was to deliver information on a number of items such as telecom license issuance body, number, price and duration of issued licenses for mobile operators, MVNOs, fixed broadband regional service providers as well as frequency and telecom operator regulation and fair competition regulation.
Results: In order to provide the answers the consultant carried out 5 interviews (a mixture of face-to-face and phone) with Czech Telecommunication Office officers, Office of the Protection of Competition and mobile operators. The consultant provided the client with a 12-page report that addressed all the issues of interest in great detail.
   

Identifying key producers and distributors of IT equipment in Slovakia
Completion: 2005 - 12
Target markets: SK
Objective: EasyLink was requested to carry research into IT equipment (hardware) manufacturers and distributors in Slovakia and identify suppliers.
Results: We compiled detailed profiles of 7 importers, 13 distributors and 24 producers of hardware. The scope of information provided to the client included the companies' name, address, contact details, product range as well as sales and staff size in 2004.
   

Competitor intelligence and background check
Completion: 2005 - 11
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned to provide competitor intelligence and background check as well as monitor investment activities of an important foreign investor (Iceland-based) in the Czech telecommunication sector and the impact of its ownership share on the structure and behaviour of the acquired companies.
Results: EasyLink presented the findings answering our client's particular questions via a thorough PowerPoint presentation - e.g. when did the investor acquire the majority shares in these operators, has there been any consolidation / ownership changes since he invested in the local operator and has the three operators changed their strategy after the acquisition? The key obstacle the consultant had to face is best summarized by a leading financial analyst's quote in the press, "the investment was carried out in such a way that it would not be clear who owns the company." After 6 months we were asked to provide an update of the situation and analyze new developments.
   

Czech Republic: Survey of IT and software companies
Completion: 2005 - 08
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was requested to survey IT and software companies and other key players and report on their structure and strategy.
Results: Altogether 14 multinational IT and software and 6 other companies and their projects were profiled in our through report on the Czech IT market that continues to be the most advanced in Central and Eastern Europe. Indicators such as IT spending as a proportion to GDP and mobile subscriptions as a proportion of the population are comparable to those of many Western European countries. Our analysis of the organizational structure of the key IT companies indicated a prevailing pattern, in which a Czech subsidiary is fully independent for business activities in the Czech Republic and reports either to the EMEA headquarters or global headquarters. For the majority of IT companies under study, the Czech Republic has been a market of key importance, often one of main sources of regional or even global growth. And for many of them, their successful experience in the Czech market combined with other positive factors has led to the decision to use the Czech Republic as the base for strategic centres providing services to clients throughout the region, or even globally.
   

Assisting our client in understanding local legislation and practice related to "talking while driving"
Completion: 2005 - 08
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was asked to provide the client with clear understanding of the changes stemming from the enactment of new legislation on the use of mobile phones while driving.
Results: The consultant not only explained and cited the legislation but also described the development and changes in the attitude of drivers - e.g. prior to the enactment of new Road Act certain ways of holding a phone enabled drivers talk on their cell phones while driving and still remain law-abiding citizens.
   

Web server technology and appliances provider meets Czech companies
Completion: 2005 - 06
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our U.S. client actively pursues domestic and international sales of proprietary Web Server Technology and Appliances and is also a master reseller of all major technology manufactures from Cisco Systems, Sun Microsystems, Intel, Seagate and IBM. Client's servers are designed to block SPAM Email, Web and Email Viruses and inappropriate or objectionable content. EasyLink was requested to schedule targeted meetings with Czech companies.
Results: Easylink identified and approached 30 potential partners amongst web hosting and server housing providers and IT equipment and hardware importers and distributors. Meetings were scheduled with 6 qualified companies that confirmed interest in face-to-face discussions.
   

U.S. satellite-based global broadband Internet access technology provider targets the Czech Republic
Completion: 2005 - 06
Target markets: CZ
Objective: The company designs, develops and markets high bandwidth, satellite-based solutions targeted at enterprises with the need for fast, flexible and geographically dispersed two-way Internet/Intranet access. The technology has been optimized to deliver IP traffic over satellite, and can handle any Internet or web enabled functions including Citrix and other enterprise applications, IP multicasting, video conferencing and multimedia. The technology is designed to serve major corporations or government organizations that need secure, high-speed private IP networks. The company requested scheduling targeted meetings with qualified and interested prospective distribution partners and direct users.
Results: EasyLink scheduled a series of 11 meetings with ICT companies as well as the Ministry of Defence (heads of Telecommunication and National Armament Departments).
   

Matchmaking & Appointments in selected markets of Central & Eastern Europe
Completion: 2005 - 04
Target markets: HU,PL,SK
Objective: A licensed manufacturer of computer and audio / video accessories for Europe and the Middle East is seeking a strategic co-operation with a distribution company actively serving the retail and/or B2B sales channels.
Results: EasyLink's consultants in Hungary, Poland and Slovakia altogether approached over 50 companies, institutions and key associations in the field of computer accessories, audio, video and multimedia equipment and office supply distribution and retail. After they interviewed and evaluated all the prospects, 6 Hungarian, 3 Polish and 4 Slovak companies expressed readiness to meet the client. After further consideration of time and travel constraints EasyLink's consulting team scheduled meetings with top 9 candidates and prepared a detailed 4-day itinerary for client's visit to the three countries.
   

U.K. provider of software and consultancy to companies in mobile telecommunications targets the Baltic States
Completion: 2005 - 04
Target markets: LV, LT, EE
Objective: EasyLink was requested to mediate direct contact with mobile telephone system operators in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
Results: Our research and interviews with 9 mobile telecom operators in the Baltics revealed two strong players/groups were active in each of the countries - TeliaSonera and Tele2. They had significant influence on our communication with the Baltic managers - their decisions needed to be in line with the general policies and strategies of their parent companies, or in fact the decision-making power is fully with the parent companies.
   

Czech company targets prospective distribution partners in the U.K.
Completion: 2005 - 04
Target markets: UK
Objective: Our client, a Czech authorized/master distributor for all of Europe, wishes to export PC coolers, ventilators and similar accessories/components and is now looking for a national distributor in the United Kingdom.
Results: EasyLink's consultant in the United Kingdom pre-selected and contacted 16 companies to evaluate their qualification and interest for working with the Czech master distributor. Five companies asked that a director contacts them in order to discuss the business proposal in more detail.
   

Leading Czech importer and distributor of IT and office products seeks assistance in Austria
Completion: 2005 - 01
Target markets: AT
Objective: Our client has been dynamically developing into a key player in the whole CEE region. This authorized European master distributor commissioned this project within its strategic process towards appointing a distributor for the Austrian market for one particular product range.
Results: EasyLink's consultant in Vienna pre-selected and contacted 30 distributors and wholesalers in the ICT field to evaluate their interest in working with the client. 3 companies expressed interest and readiness to discuss details and partnership terms with the client.
   

Identifying SolidWorks CAD design and HW/SW development firms in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2004 - 12
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned by a German specialist in RFID logistical systems to identify local companies experienced in SolidWorks CAD design and/or HW/SW development that could become client's suppliers.
Results: We identified 22 prospective partners and provided the client with their profiles; 15 companies were involved in HW/SW development and 7 in CAD design.
   

Compiling a verified database of potential trade partners
Completion: 2004 - 05
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A global developer and supplier of business and customer relationship management (CRM) software which can be used in markets such as financial services, manufacturing, consulting, leisure, high-tech and call centres has requested us to identify and profile prospective distributors in the Czech Republic with experience with Internet technologies i.e. Java/HTML and core db skills like SQL/Oracle/Db2 and fully cohesive with Microsoft products.
Results: EasyLink identified 29 relevant companies and prepared their profiles in Access database format; the profiles included verified company and contact details.
   

Australian supplier of phone flashers targets the Czech and Slovak markets
Completion: 2004 - 03
Target markets: CZ + SK
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned to schedule targeted meetings with telecommunication operators as well as importers and distributors of telecommunication equipment.
Results: EasyLink prepared a detailed 3-day itinerary including 8 meetings in the Czech Republic and Slovakia as well as travel and hotel arrangements. The client was accompanied by EasyLink's managing director during the Czech leg of the trip and by EasyLink's consultant in Bratislava to all meetings in Slovakia.
   

Master distributor seeks partners in Poland
Completion: 2004 -
Target markets: PL
Objective: A Czech-based authorized/master distributor for all of Europe requested EasyLink to identify prospective distribution partners in Poland for their range of PC ventilators and coolers.
Results: EasyLink's consultant in Warsaw identified, approached and further screened 26 companies trading in PC accessories/components. The client was provided with detailed profiles of 3 prospective partners with confirmed interest in partnership and overview and responses of companies not interested in partnership. Our list included 11 entities ranked in the Top 200 Computer World Report 2003, an annual report published by a weekly magazine, Computer World, that contains an overview of the largest ICT distributors in Poland.
   

Identify Czech distributors of video and computer accessories
Completion: 2004 -
Target markets: CZ+SK
Objective: A licensed manufacturer of computer and audio and video accessories for Europe and the Middle East was seeking a strategic co-operation with a distribution company in the Czech Republic.
Results: EasyLink conducted research into companies involved in distribution of PC, audio and video accessories and pre-selected and approached 18 companies. EasyLink scheduled 4 meetings over 2 days with qualified and keen prospective partners in the Czech Republic.
   

Matchmaking & Appointments in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2004 -
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A U.S. manufacturer of datacom tools was seeking distributors/representatives in the Czech Republic for its product range of crimpers, strippers and testers. Potential distribution partners were expected to already carry complementary products for the telecom, datacom, electrical and fibre industries, and non-exclusive distributors of competitive products were also deemed appropriate prospects.
Results: Altogether 40 entities were pre-selected and approached. The client was recommended to meet with 10 qualified companies with confirmed interest in partnership & negotiation. Upon detailed review of the prospects, the client proceeded with a 3-day in-market visit. EasyLink's consultant provided in-market and interpretation assistance and accompanied the client to meetings out of Prague (taking place in the first two days of his November 2004 visit).
   

Australian suppliers of software products and systems visit the Czech Republic
Completion: 2004 -
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned to prepare individual visit programs for four Australian suppliers of software products and systems that travelled to the Czech Republic in October 2004 to meet prospective partners amongst banks and financial institutions as well as ministries and government organizations.
Results: EasyLink carried research of the respective markets to identify prospective partners and approached relevant managers within the companies with the proposal for partnership. EasyLink then prepared detailed travel itineraries together with profiles of all the prospects interested and ready to meet the Australian companies.
   

U.K. supplier of data and voice transmission technologies targets Romania
Completion: 2003 - 11
Target markets: RO
Objective: Our client designs and manufactures leading edge data and voice transmission technologies for telecom companies around the world, and is just beginning to develop its Central and Eastern European distribution network. The company has recently tied up a deal in Poland and also does business through distributors in Ukraine, Russia, Lithuania, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria and many others. In foreign markets, the company prefers to use distributors or establish direct links to major telcos. The client would like to find a pro-active, national distributor in Romania - a medium-sized company for which its products would form a significant part of its portfolio, and capable to provide technical in-market support.
Results: Following our evaluation of pre-selected companies, 5 meetings were scheduled with the best prospects for the 2-day trip to Romania in November 2003.
   

Evaluating opportunities and contacting telcom operators in multiple CEE countries
Completion: 2002 - 04
Target markets: multiple CEE
Objective: Following successful completion of a project in the Czech Republic and Slovakia EasyLink was asked to approach telcom operators in additional CEE countries.
Results: EasyLink introduced the client, a supplier of network software, to mobile telephone operators in 6 CEE countries, namely in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Slovenia, Poland and Ukraine. Several meetings were arranged with these key customers, giving our client an opportunity to do business. As a direct result of our assistance, the client was for instance asked to submit a proposal to Polkomtel Poland with a project start in January 2003 while ERA GSM Poland carried out a feasibility study into the client's product and asked the client for a quote.
   

IT consultancy maps demand on the Czech market
Completion: 2002 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A Welsh IT consultancy involved in software, system design, data analysis, database tools and general consultancy geared towards the environmental services sector, particularly to public sector bodies that need to input and analyse data dealing with environmental issues such as recycling and waste management, would like to make a fact-finding visit to the Czech Republic. This is viewed as a preliminary visit to ascertain whether or not this market warrants further investigation. EasyLink was enlisted to identify relevant government and other organisations engaged in data collection in the environmental sector and schedule meetings for the client to discuss how the state sector currently manages environmental data and what projects will be coming up in the future. Other entities of interest to the client included organisations putting information into a portal website that might need updating regularly and private sector IT specialists.
Results: 16 meetings (spread into 4 days) were scheduled with private entities and public or government organizations, e.g. Ministry of Environment, Regional Office of South Moravia, City Offices of Prague and Brno as well as multiple leading waste management companies.
   

EasyLink approaches the leading telecom operators on behalf of a U.K. supplier of mobile telcom software
Completion: 2002 - 03
Target markets: CZ+SK
Objective: Our task was to introduce the client to all the key telecom operators in the Czech Republic and Slovakia and arrange meetings.
Results: For each operator or key telcom technology supplier in the targeted countries we determined sales potential for our client (including relation to technologies and systems currently in use by the operators). Where application of client's system was technically feasible and we were able to secure interest, personal meetings with product presentations to key decision-makers were arranged; among them perhaps the most valuable meeting was the one with Eurotel Slovakia, then the largest mobile phone operator in the country.
   

Irish banking software specialist targets Slovakia
Completion: 2002 - 02
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Identifying potential customers and partners in Slovakia
Results: EasyLink arranged meetings with 8 Slovak companies that qualified either as potential customers or partners. The client visited in February 2002, i.e. at the time when Slovakia's banking sector was undergoing another round of privatization - several banks had recently changed, or were about to change, owners who were then likely to bring their own IT strategies and policies. Within the group of potential partners/agents we approached all large consultancies as well as leading Slovak software companies and system integrators.
   

Irish telecom network software provider meets prospective customers and partners in Slovakia
Completion: 2002 - 02
Target markets: SK
Objective: Our client was seeking to expand business into Slovakia via partnership with landline and mobile telecommunication network operators and system integrators. EasyLink was asked to identify relevant partners and schedule meetings with the top candidates.
Results: EasyLink's consultant received very positive response from the pre-selected partners, which was no surprise given the very rapid market growth- for instance, the total number of mobile telephone users in Slovakia grew rapidly, by 93% in 2001, to 2.1 million people (40% of Slovak population). EasyLink arranged 9 meetings with three groups of potential customers and partners - telecommunication network operators (e.g. the dominant national landline network operator and the two leading mobile telephone network operators), Slovak system integrators and multinational system integrators & consultancies.
   

Irish supplier of video conferencing systems visits Slovakia to meet prospective partners identified by EasyLink
Completion: 2002 - 02
Target markets: SK
Objective: EasyLink was asked to identify potential end-users and distributors/partners, evaluate their qualification and interest in representing the client and schedule meetings with the top prospects.
Results: We assessed over a dozen companies, of which we contacted 9 closely selected firms in the telecom and IT sector in Slovakia. Our targets included all key telecommunication service providers as well some telecommunication/IT technologies providers and system integrators focused on the telecommunications sector. After further screening and interviews with their top management we scheduled a series of 4 meetings with the top candidates for our client's two-day visit to Slovakia in February 2002.
   

Supplier of software for universities visits the Czech Republic
Completion: 2001 - 09
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was asked to prepare a business trip for an Irish developer of enterprise management software for the higher education market; their product was already implemented and tested by many prestigious U.K. and Irish education customers.
Results: We approached representatives of the largest universities and/or university departments ("faculties") with enrolment ranging from 4,300 to 35,000 students as well as software companies and system integrators with experience in delivery for the university education sector. Altogether 11 meetings were arranged by EasyLink; they were attended by heads/directors of IT departments as well as institutions' senior officials. At the time of the project student enrolment at private universities and colleges in the Czech Republic was still limited (not meeting the client's criteria), and thus no meetings with private institutions were arranged.
   

Irish banking software supplier targeting the Czech market
Completion: 2001 - 09
Target markets: CZ
Objective: The client was seeking to expand its market presence in the Czech Republic by introducing its innovative eCRM application allowing banks & insurers to carry out their customer operations with far greater efficiency. EasyLink was asked to identify prospective partners and assess their interest in discussing the implementation of this software during one-to-one meetings with the client's management during their trip to the Czech Republic in the fall of 2001.
Results: We proposed the client to meet with two distinct groups of companies: banks and insurance companies as potential customers and system integrators and software companies as potential partners. Altogether 8 meetings were scheduled, e.g. with the two largest banks in the Czech Republic and another top-ten bank, the largest insurance company and another top ten insurance company, plus two system integrators (incl. a leading global consultancy whose clients include four of the five largest banks in the country).
   

Irish specialist in the sale of Compaq refurbished computer parts targeting the Czech market
Completion: 2001 - 09
Target markets: CZ
Objective: We were asked to prepare an itinerary with a series of one-to-one meetings with qualified prospects for the client's visit to the Czech Republic in the autumn of 2001.
Results: We identified and approached close to 30 companies (e.g. Compaq Authorized Dealers and Compaq System Resellers) in the Czech Republic to introduce the client and present their partnership proposal. Based on our initial telephone interview and further extensive written communication with the interested parties, we identified the top candidates and arranged 7 meetings.
   

IT solutions provider to financial institutions targeting the Czech Republic
Completion: 2001 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: This U.K. company has been providing business-critical finance systems for a range of international banks, finance houses and utility providers for over 25 years. The client is already doing business with a customer in the Czech Republic and wishes to meet additional direct customers, i.e. investment banks, advisers and commercial banks.
Results: EasyLink identified and approached prospective customers and arranged meetings with heads of IT departments of 5 leading financial institutions.
   

Introducing a Welsh client to local testing agencies
Completion: 2000 - 05
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client has developed a test system for analogue telecommunications equipment such as modems and fax machines. The system can be taken on by a distributor who is familiar with selling hardware and/or testing equipment to telecommunications buyers and OEMs, or can be sold direct to private and public test laboratories.
Results: EasyLink was asked to evaluate the latter route to market; we contacted local testing agencies to assess their interest in using client's equipment.
   

Market research paper: Czech IT sector in 2000
Completion: 2000 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our task was to thoroughly analyse the Czech IT sector.
Results: The consultant prepared an over 50-page report that addressed the hardware and software, IT services, ISP and telecommunications markets. In 1998, IT spending per capita reached USD 141 ranking the Czech Republic second among Central and Eastern European countries, behind Slovenia. The report also mapped the market in terms of who is who on the market - including details on key market players. Last but not least, the report provided guidance pertaining to market access.
   


•


IT, software & telecommunications market research in Central & Eastern Europe
Would you like to understand and estimate the market potential for IT, software and telcom products, systems and technologies in the CEE region? EasyLink provides professional expertise in strategic market research, market intelligence, competitive intelligence, market size analysis and market potential evaluation, competitive landscape and distribution structure study, identification of new customers and potential partners etc. Please contact us to discuss how we can assist your business objectives in export, marketing or sourcing.


Customer Search & Partner Search in Central & Eastern Europe
Are you seeking IT, software and telecommunication product distributors, agents or buyers in Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Russia? We are experienced experts in search, identification, screening and pre-selection of business partners in Central & Eastern Europe, ranging from distributor search to profiling of prospective customers and identifying specific business opportunities; we assist our clients with sourcing in emerging markets and low-cost markets in the CEE region.