Accenture completes Corliant purchase

Accenture continues to expand its information technology offerings with the acquisition of Corliant Inc., a privately held consulting firm that specializes in advanced IP networks. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Corliant will add specialized skills, methodologies, tools and Cisco-specific network technology expertise, Accenture said. The Trevose, Pa.-based company is a certified channel partner of Cisco Systems Inc.

The acquisition will help Accenture strengthen its networking services and skills, particularly in implementing advanced, next-generation IP network solutions, said John Kaltenmark, head of Accenture's Technology Consulting unit. Corliant's 150 employees will be integrated into the unit.

The acquisition is an excellent strategic fit for Accenture, Kaltenmark said when the planned purchase was announced in October. Corliant's "focus and expertise dovetail with our own capabilities, allowing us to become a one-stop shop for specialized networking services, skills and solutions."

Accenture announced in November it planned to acquire San Diego-based Maxim Systems Inc. and its 135 employees. The contractor works with military and intelligence agencies on systems in command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Accenture of Hamilton, Bermuda, ranks No. 28 on Washington Technology's 2007 Top 100 list of the largest federal government prime contractors.