By Rob Munier
In the submarine telecoms industry, trickle-down is not a theory when it comes to marine services. The “scheduleis-king” mantra of 18 months ago has been replaced by an emphasis on cost and cash, resulting in deferrals, lay-ups and lay-offs. Previously purchasers wanted the highest capacity, maximum diversity and the latest installation technologies. Now there is a perceived bandwidth glut so new systems are being shelved, fleets are being “optimized” and ROVs are finding their way back into the oil patch. The marine service segment, like the rest of the industry, is hunkering down, focusing on survival not innovation.
Great Expectations
MIND THE GAP 40
Prior to the downturn there was a growing awareness of a gap between the expectations of system purchasers and other stakeholders with respect to installation and the ability of installers to satisfy those expectations. This expectation gap arose from several factors including the deployment of new technologies, competitive pressures and an evolving regulatory environment.