We reported earlier today that Userplane, a company that makes web-based video, audio, and text chat software is being acquired by AOL, Download Squad's own parent company. It's an interesting move for both Userplane and AOL, and Userplane CEO Michael Jones was kind enough to answer a few questions for us.

Download Squad: Can you tell me a bit about how Userplane got started and what it does?

Michael Jones: I have posted a brief history of Userplane at dandelife.com/stories/list/userplane.

Basically, 3 partners – Michael Jones (business), Javier Hall (design), Nate Thelen (technology) who had worked together on my former company came together and formed Userplane. We worked on custom development projects for a year or so – then began embarking on our own product line targeted at online communications – specifically IM. As we grew, and our products' success began – we expanded our product line, our staff, and began marketing our applications to any and all online communities. We were fortunate in our timing, and we have built a strong network of users both on the private label / integrated side and on our free instant-install product line.

What we do specifically is provide presence, IM and chat communication solutions to online communities. You can review a bit on our products at www.userplane.com – but we provide solutions both for individuals (our instant-install products) and full fledged communities (integrated products).




DLS: Given recent headlines about AOL--the Vincent Ferrari call and the search data release--did you have concerns about AOL's public image or practices going into the acquisition?

Jones: AOL has a long history as pioneers behind the consumer internet. Their recent headlines are unfortunate but not long lasting. After spending time within their organization and seeing where they are headed I could not be more excited about their direction and have no doubts on their handing of sensitive data. Userplane is extremely concerned about confidentiality within our network – if anything – I believe AOL will further enhance the security and privacy we already have in place.

DLS: Do you think any of your customers or potential customers will be turned off by the fact that Userplane is now an AOL company?

Jones: I don't believe so. If anything this expands our functionality through optional connectivity to the AIM service. We are committed to our clients and enabling them to grow bigger and bigger communities – AOL only supports that directive.

DLS: What does Userplane and its customers stand to gain from the acquisition?

Jones: Primarily increased quality of service, expanded technical infrastructure, new applications and services as well as enhanced features like AIM connectivity.

DLS: How is AOL planning to integrate Userplane's products into its own?

Jones: It is still undetermined – but Userplane is driven to provide and support online communities – thus wherever community exists online we want to be a part of this – AOL owned or not!

DLS: Userplane's web site says its clients include MySpace, Date.com, IGN, and other big names. Will the acquisition change your relationship with big clients or how they're approached? What about little clients?

Jones: We have notified our largest clients and they have been receptive to the new ownership. AOL specifically has allowed us to stay somewhat autonomous, maintaining our current staff and keeping separate offices – and allowing us to continue marketing and developing relationships as we have in the past. The small communities are the lifeblood of Userplane – thus we have no intention of leaving them behind. Our platform is designed for easy adoption and rapid expansion. We will continue to be a strong supporter of all online communities, large and small.

DLS: Thanks for answering our questions, Michael. We'll definitely be keeping an eye on new developments from Userplane.

Jones has a personal blog at mjones.la and Userplane also has an official blog. You can read the press release at AOL's Press Center.