Oracle has announced that IDEA Cellular Limited has selected and will implement Siebel CRM applications to deliver customer services to pre- and post-paid mobile subscribers across its entire operations in India. IDEA's strategic outsourcing partner, IBM, will undertake the implementation, which on completion is expected to address challenges arising from IDEA's extensive channel and dealer network and meet its fast-expanding customer base.

"IDEA has been on the forefront of adapting cutting edge technology to exceed customer service expectations. In doing so we have adopted a collaborative approach to partner with the best-in-class application technologies available to streamline and enhance our business processes. I am confident that all IDEA customers will benefit significantly from our selection of Oracle's Siebel CRM, which will undoubtedly be another first in the Indian communications industry," said Prakash Paranjape, chief information officer, IDEA. 

"IDEA's selection of Oracle is yet another proof point of our CRM market leadership in the communications industry in India, and around the world. With Siebel CRM, IDEA will have the ability to provide a single customer experience, rapidly introduce new products and efficiently manage sales campaigns. Oracle is pleased to be working with IDEA and IBM to fully enable IDEA to capitalise on the high-growth India mobile market," said Ash Khalek, vice president, Communications, Media and Utilities business, Oracle Asia Pacific.

"IBM's global leadership in telecom solutions has led to innovative partnerships with leading telecom service providers in competitive markets helping them develop comprehensive solutions to drive new revenues while maintaining focus on operational efficiencies. It gives me immense pleasure that today's announcement allows us to further strengthen our existing partnership with Idea Cellular to capitalise on a proven alliance and time-tested solutions," said Amit Sachdeva, Partner - Communications Sector, IBM India/ South Asia .

IDEA will implement several Communications applications modules from Oracle's Siebel CRM including Siebel Loyalty, Siebel Marketing, Siebel Service and Siebel Partner management.