Analyst: Comcast VoIP should price less, explain more

In a previous post, I regaled Comcastfor its pricey VoIP service plans.

I, like most of you,acquire a strong sense of validationwhen my arguments fall into line with those of others.

I've just received an email from telcom analyst firm Nemertes Research. Robin Gareiss, Nemertes Executive Vice President & Senior Founding Partner, agrees with much of what I have been saying.

"Error No. 1 is that Comcast hasnt priced its service aggressively enough compared with other VOIP providers or traditional telecom providers," Gareiss writes."Comcast plans to charge $40 a month to current cable customers; $54 to non-customers, compared with Vonages $25 and AT&Ts $35. Customers need reason to go through the hassle of switching phone service, and the primary motivator is cold, hard cash. Comcasts pricing structure doesnt recognize that."

Couldn't have said it better, Robin. Plus, I like it when my opinions are backed up by those in the know.

Gareiss goes on to say that in order for its VoIP offerings to take off, Comcast must do a better job explaining VoIP to potential customers who might be hazy on VoIP's advantages - or may not even know what VoIP is.
"Comcast and other VOIP providers also must illustrate why VOIP services are more functional than traditional telephony or wireless offerings," Gareiss adds.They need to highlight unified messaging, call transfer, multiple extensions, and other features that differentiate VOIP. Such recognition could push businesses over the hump, despite the fact that cost savings are insignificant."

Will Comcash be able to summon the requisite humility they need to revise their pricing model and do a better job explaining VoIP to those who need to know more before they sign up?