MV TECH MV TECH (October 29, 2004)

By Kristine D. Dworkin

Hello, operator?

Verizon's new automated 411-directory has some local technology behind it. Mountain View-based Tellme Network created speech technology, which is helping make the largest Internet application on the telephone network possible.

One of the system's features is the utilization of technology to sort calls. When a customer asks for a person, business or government listing, the call is handed off to one of two Tellme automated data centers where it is matched with a known listing. If the call can't be matched, the caller is then transferred to a live operator for assistance.

The goal of the system is not only to reduce the cost of live operators but also to provide faster service to customers.

For more information on Tellme Network's speech technology, visit www.tellme.com.

Synopsys goes shopping

Synopsys is looking to acquire Switzerland-based Integrated Systems Engineering. It is believed that a combination of Synopsys' electronic design automation (EDA) software and Integrated's Technology CAD (TCAD) software products and services will help Synopsys customers achieve the highest possible yields.

TCAD tools are a critical part of an overall design-for-manufacturing package. They precisely simulate advanced semiconductor processes down to the atomic level before they are put into production.

The technology can reduce the number of test chips required to optimize and characterize a new semiconductor process, significantly shortening the time and cost to ramp up yield in leading-edge fabrications.

Synopsys' acquisition is expected to close next month.

To learn more about Synopsys and its interest in Integrated Systems Engineering, visit www.synopsys.com.

Pilot makes the list

Pilot Software Inc., an operational performance management solution provider, was named to the DM Review 100 list. The business intelligence magazine's list was based on the results of a reader survey on product usage and vendor rating in nine product categories.

Over 200 vendors were ranked by product quality, customer service and satisfaction and market share to determine the top 100 companies in the business intelligence space. This is the second time Pilot Software has made the annual list since the company was founded in 2002.

To learn more about Pilot Software, visit www.pilotsoftware.com.

"MVTech" is a roundup of news from Mountain View's high-tech industry. Please send news items, comments and suggestions to Kristine D. Dworkin at mvvoicetech@yahoo.com.

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