CompTIA Convergence Group

About the CompTIA Convergence Group

The CompTIA Convergence Group, formally called the CT Pioneers, was established in 1997 to help solutions providers and interconnect dealers enter the computer telephony market space. Today, the "CT” stands for “Convergent Technologies” to acknowledge the expanded scope of communications convergence, which integrates the merging of voice, video, fax, and data on a single network, integrating telecommunications and computer technology in a way that opens powerful new avenues of communication. It represents the intersection of telephone, computer, TV, cable and Internet networks.

Objectives of the CompTIA Convergence Group are to:

• Work together to identify or develop the business model(s) for successfully selling and implementing solutions for convergent technologies
• Identify the sales/marketing tools necessary to create a successful convergent technologies business
• Identify the technical knowledge and resources necessary to support CT business
• Identify viable CT products that will provide integrated solutions for customers' business needs
• Provide a forum for learning from peers and sharing key information that makes the difference between success and failure with convergent technologies
• Support and drive CT education, standards and interoperability - all necessary elements to facilitate industry growth and success with this technology

Today, the Convergence Group is a group within CompTIA, an indication that the worlds of information technology and telephony are moving toward communications convergence. The CT Pioneers are confident that CompTIA will provide the resources and the presence necessary to drive training and industry-wide programs forward as they have done so successfully in the information technology space.

The CompTIA Convergence Group Value Proposition
The mission of the Convergence Group is to promote growth and development in the Convergent Technologies (CT) industry through the adoption of best practices, facilitated networking opportunities, and a commitment to industry education, interoperability and standards.

The education that we provide focuses on making each business stronger and more successful. The CompTIA Convergence Group works to:

• Identify and develop business model(s) to successfully compete in a high tech market
• Identify the sales/marketing tools necessary to move your business from low margin activities to high margin activities
• Identify the necessary technical knowledge and resources to support your business
• Identify viable products that provide you with integrated business solutions
• Provide an educational forum to share key information and grow your business

Executive Profiles
The CompTIA Convergence Group was formed by dedicated solution providers in the convergent markets of telephony and information technology. These industry experts and leaders know first-hand about the many challenges that face businesses in this new and developing industry. The Convergence Group Advisory Council has chosen to take an active role in shaping the convergent technology industry and develop successful business models, set best practices and standards, and provide advocacy for its members.

2006–2007 CompTIA Convergence Group Advisory Council Representatives

Alan Borck ARC Communications	Craig Johnson Catalyst Telecom
Ed Dylag Intel Americas	Jeff Myers Axess Communications
Joe Gillette Stage 2 Networks	John Horner Synnex
Kelly Lumpkin Alternate Access