Why Do Infosys and TCS Not Have Well-Known Consumer Products?

Introduction

Despite being hailed as the best minds in the Indian IT industry, both Infosys and TCS are commonly perceived as not having any well-known consumer products. This perception, however, necessitates a deeper exploration into the nature of these companies and the products they develop. While it is true that some of their products are highly recognized, the primary focus of both firms lies in service delivery rather than consumer-facing products. This article aims to dissect this perception and provide clarity.

Understanding the Nature of Infosys and TCS

Both Infosys (Finacle) and TCS have well-established and widely recognized products, such as:

Finacle: A banking solution used in India, the Middle East, and Australia. TCS products include BaNCS, IoN, MasterCraft, Ignio, and others.

It is essential to understand that these companies are primarily service-oriented and are renowned for their service-based solutions rather than consumer products. The predominantly positive perception of these companies is rooted in their ability to solve complex business problems using their advanced technological capabilities and proprietary solutions.

Products vs Consumer Products

The term consumer products usually refers to items that are sold directly to consumers and are part of the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. For example, items such as beverages, food, household products, and personal care goods fall into this category. Consumer products are often the ones that consumers are more likely to remember and associate with a brand.

However, despite the lack of prominent consumer products, companies like Infosys and TCS have developed several niche products that solve critical business problems and drive significant revenue. As mentioned, TCS's BaNCS, IoN, MasterCraft, Ignio, and others are well-regarded in their respective markets, all serving specific functional and technical roles.

Is Talent Overlooked in Infosys and TCS?

A recent post expresses dissatisfaction with the notion that employees at these companies lack talent due to their belief in job security. The author emphasizes that many employees focus on their roles in support and maintenance, often within a traditional 9am to 5pm working window. This perspective can make it seem as though these companies do not value talent.

However, it is crucial to recognize that the primary focus of Infosys and TCS is on problem-solving and technological innovation rather than consumer-facing products. These companies continuously invest in Research and Development (RD), leading to the creation of robust and advanced solutions that benefit clients and industries. Furthermore, being ranked first in terms of revenue does not diminish the quality of talent within these organizations. The TCS Research and Innovation Lab is a testament to their commitment to innovation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Infosys and TCS may not have widely recognized consumer products, they are undoubtedly among the best in the industry when it comes to service-based solutions and technological innovation. The perception that they lack talent, as expressed by some employees, is a narrow view that overlooks the significant contributions these companies make to various sectors through their specialized offerings.

For employees at TCS/Infosys, particularly those in client-facing roles or other challenging tasks, the current opportunities are likely satisfactory. However, for those seeking broader learning and development, exploring external opportunities might be a good idea.

Regarding talented employees, the TCS Research and Innovation Lab stands out as a beacon of innovation and exemplifies the depth of talent within the company. It is a testament to the ongoing efforts to nurture and retain top talent in a fast-evolving technological landscape.

Resources:

InfyProd - Infy's Product Portfolio TCS System Solutions

References:

Google Search on TCS Products and Services