Nokia and Accenture have entered into a strategic collaboration in which Nokia would outsource its Symbian software activities and transfer about 3,000 employees to Accenture, while Accenture will provide mobility software services to Nokia for future smartphones.
The collaboration, which is subject to final agreement, calls for Accenture to provide Symbian-based software development and support services, with the expected transition of about 3,000 Nokia employees to Accenture.
Both the companies expect completion of the final agreement during summer 2011, and expect the transition of employees by the end of the year 2011.
Transitioning employees, located in China, Finland, India, UK, and the US, will initially work on Symbian software activities for Nokia.
The collaboration also includes plans for Accenture to provide mobility software, business and operational services around the Windows Phone platform to Nokia and other ecosystem participants.
Under the agreement, Accenture would become a preferred partner for Nokia’s smartphone development activities, and a preferred provider of services.
Accenture communications and high tech group chief executive Marty Cole said mobility is a key area for Accenture and this collaboration with Nokia will enhance their ability to help clients across multiple industries leverage mobility to advance their business agendas.
