Businessweek

(edge, access, and core) in data center environments. These products and services deliver on the company’s vision for Application Fluent Networks, which focus on providing solutions that meet the demands of rich media applications and virtualization within the enterprise. Products for security and management complement its network product portfolio. Comprehensive project management and services include offerings for large enterprises, carriers, and customers in a range of vertical markets. Communications Platforms: During 2012, the company strengthened its products and capabilities around its next generation suite of communications platforms that the company markets under the name OpenTouch by releasing OpenTouch Conversation, an integrated application to enable collaborative conversations on the iPad. Network Infrastructure: In 2012, the company released new solutions to deliver on its Application Fluent Network vision. Marketing, Sales, and Distribution The company sells its products and services to telecommunications service providers worldwide through its direct sales force. In some countries, such as China, its direct sales force might operate in joint ventures with local partners and through indirect channels. Its enterprise communications products are sold through channel partners and distributors that are supported by its direct sales force. Dispositions In 2012, the company sold its Genesys business. Intellectual Property In 2012, the company obtained approximately 2,900 patents worldwide, resulting in a portfolio of approximately 30,700 active patents and approximately 15,000 patent applications totaling approximately 45,000 issued and pending patents worldwide across a range of technologies. Seasonality The typical quarterly pattern in the company’s revenues – a weak first quarter (year ending December 2012), a strong fourth quarter and second and third quarter results that fall between those two extremes – generally reflects the traditional seasonal pattern of service providers’ capital expenditures. In 2012, its revenues were in-line with the typical seasonal pattern despite market uncertainty and selective spending from service providers, primarily in Europe. Competition The company’s competitors include Avaya, Cisco Systems, Ericsson, Fujitsu, Huawei, ZTE, and Nokia Siemens Networks. History Alcatel-Lucent was founded in 1898. The company was incorporated in 1898.