Microsoft and Accenture have co-developed a Microsoft .NET-powered version of the Accenture Communications Solutions, a set of pre-configured applications for wireline and wireless carriers, Internet service providers, cable providers, and other communications service providers. They support key operations including customer care, sales, billing, service delivery, enterprise management and business intelligence.

"Our joint solution combines seamless integration of critical processes with the power of Microsoft's .NET Framework and Web services to help network service providers lower their cost, improve agility and gain the real-time transactional capability needed to provide a rich customer service experience and expand service offerings rapidly," said Diego Visconti, Group Chief Executive of Accenture's Communications & High Tech operating group.

"Accenture continues to demonstrate its dedication and commitment to delivering innovative solutions and unlocking the promise of Web Services," said Pieter Knook, Microsoft corporate vice president, Network Service Providers and Mobile Devices. "Our joint solution marks a significant step for Web service technologies, providing leading-edge business value and agility in the communications service provider's front and back office."

Since its introduction in 2001, the Accenture Communications Solutions, a suite of applications that combine proprietary integration, configuration and commercially available software, has been implemented with more than 20 service providers globally. Each component of the solution can be implemented separately or integrated seamlessly with other components into an existing IT infrastructure, offering communications providers "plug and play" capabilities.