There’s reality and expectations - two different things that does not equate to failure. Bankruptcy is just not the correct assessment, not even close in this case. Bottom line is, Riverbed isn’t the healthiest company but it’s not dying in the vine either, there’s just too many customers that actually use our products to “just disappear” into the sunset. While we aren’t privy to all the business data, we do know the changes are needed to adapt to our changing business model and it’s not easy at all. The best we can do is focus on what works, voice our opinions where we think things aren’t working and execute the best we can - the rest will be history.
Focus on reoccurring revenue, focus on acquisition costs and our selling price and focus on morale because, if we do it correctly, riverbed will be healthier tomorrow.
Easier said than done, true, but every modern business struggles with this and it isn’t just the leaders that have to execute, it’s everyone. The fear monger poster is an example of what’s not needed now. The leaders’ take away should be, given all the town hall meetings we have, there are a contingency of folks not seeing or believing you. I know you’re trying your best here but there are (people) reasons why we can’t.
Change is hard and isn’t for everyone, all we can do is remain focused and do what’s best for us at the end of the day.