In recent days, Vadodra-based Matrix Comsec (till recently known as Matrix Telecom) has been in the news when it diversified into access control and building security (fire-alarm) products arena. The diversification appears to be a part of Matrix’ quest for providing network-related ‘on-premises’ solutions. If the scope of this latest initiative is further analyzed, one can easily guess the extent the company can venture into the scintillating sphere of security. This is quite possible that in coming months, Matrix may foray into the realm of ‘video surveillance’ offering end-to-end solution. This is also possible that Matrix Telecom acquires some like-minded companies in this area of digital surveillance. And who knows Matrix can even enter into the arena of classical switching and routing? This is also feasible that Matrix brings out security appliances (Unified Threat Management) for today’s data-centres. The possibilities are simply immense. But, amidst such transitional impulses, company’s telecom fundamentals are going from strength to strength. It is to be reiterated that the Matrix telecom products are based on Analog, Digital (TDM) and IP Platforms which handle mission critical applications of SMBs as well as enterprises.

Robust R&D set-up

The company has been putting immense focus on its R&D works and has come out with top notch products. In an interaction with Digital Edge, Sajeev Nair, Head Product Management, Matrix Comsec Pvt Ltd, says, “All Matrix products are indigenously designed. With around 30 per cent of the total manpower is dedicated to development of new products, Matrix R&D is the foundation of its growth and sustenance. The R&D team designs products conforming to the latest international standards”. Matrix makes considerable investments in R&D tools and equipments for staying abreast with the latest technological advancements. “Soon, we will be launching another full-fledged R&D centre which will be focusing on designing and developing latest technologies including unified communications (UC) and fixed mobile convergence”, says Nair. However, the company has already expanded its IP product portfolio including IP PBXs for both SMBs and enterprise entities. These PBXs deliver many unified communication functionalities like Presence, IM, Universal Connectivity, Varied Device Support and Unified Messaging. Also, the new range of high-density SIP platforms is an open platform, with capability to deliver solutions loaded with full-fledged unified communications functionalities. Apart from strong R&D prowess, Matrix Comsec maintains comprehensive manufacturing facilities in India. “Matrix is strongly oriented towards ground-up product development. All Matrix products are designed, developed and manufactured in Vadodara, using state-of-the-art technology conforming to international standards”, informs Nair. Matrix has a 25,000 square-feet factory at Waghodia (Vadodara) which has a production capacity of more than 1,000,000 ports per annum. “Over the last 18 years, Matrix has pioneered many unique technologies and features in its products. Matrix is expanding its manufacturing facilities by adding another 1 Lac sq. feet of factory space for catering to all its future needs”, adds he.

The changing requirements

Today, on-premises telecom infrastructure tends to be of blended nature where both PSTN and IP based solution could co-exist. In fact, Indian MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and large enterprises are yet to migrate immaculately to the IP based telephony system. In such a scenario, Matrix has been trying to cater to this composite requirements of its customers. “Customers these days prefer a single box solution that offers multiple telephony networks connectivity as an integral part of the solution, We at Matrix, understand these requirements and cater MSME segments with products like ‘ETERNITY PE’ which offers PSTN, ISDN, GSM/3G/CDMA, and VoIP Networks support”, says Nair. “Indeed, with an advent of Internet, VoIP is getting wide acceptance as it offers cost-effective way to communicate between branch or remote offices and making cheap long-distance calls”, adds Nair.

Massive channel network

The present strength of Matrix is largely attributed to the hard work put in by hundreds of channel partners including VARs (Value Added Resellers) of the company. Maintaining integrated channel network, the company has succeeded in taking the brand to upcountry markets in the country. “Our channel partners include distributors, dealers and VARs (Value Added Resellers) and are located in almost every city and town giving us much required reach to the vast Indian markets. We also have a strong distribution network in Australia, South East Asia, Middle-East, Africa, Europe, US and Latin America”, says Nair. It is to be noted that Matrix sells its products only through the channel network, be it in India or overseas markets.
Apart from numerous incentive programs, the company aspires to keep its channel partners well aware of latest technologies. “Matrix regularly conducts training programs where engineers and technicians of channel partners are thoroughly trained on installation, configuration, functioning and maintenance of all its products. They’re updated about all the technical aspects of products so that they could extend prompt after-sales support to the end-users”, says Nair. The product management team conducts region wise training programs as well as in house trainings for the channel partners to remain competitive, for extending better support to all its customers. “programs are beneficial in imparting product knowledge, functionalities and features on the new upcoming products and technology which help in boosting their confidence in handling products in the field as well as in achieving higher targets”, adds Nair. For Matrix, the market of full of competition where players like NEC and Panasonic are well poised for addressing the growing market of private network products and solutions. Surely, with quality products, Matrix can well take-up the present challenge.