Whaleback Systems

About Whaleback Systems

Whaleback Systems, Inc., founded in 2004 and based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, operated as a provider of internet protocol telephony services tailored for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The company was established by Wray West, who served as the Chief Technology Officer. West, an MIT graduate with a background in electrical engineering, envisioned creating flexible and resilient communication solutions. His prior experience included leadership roles in engineering and technology at companies such as Cedarpoint Communications and Indus River Networks, which informed Whaleback's direction.

The company's core offering was the 'CrystalBlue Voice' service, a premise-based managed IP PBX system that functioned over broadband connections like DSL or cable. This service model was designed to offer the benefits of an in-house IP-PBX, such as call quality and advanced features, combined with the cost-savings and simplicity of a hosted VoIP service. Whaleback provided an on-premise appliance that it owned and managed, removing the upfront capital expenditure and ongoing maintenance burden for its clients. The business model centered on a flat-rate, per-user monthly fee that included unlimited nationwide calling, effectively reducing telecommunications expenses for companies requiring between 5 and 1,500 phone stations. Revenue was generated through these recurring subscriptions and services distributed via a network of channel partners, VARs, and managed service providers.

Whaleback's solution integrated voice, unified messaging, mobility, and collaboration tools. It was positioned as an alternative to expensive, self-managed PBX equipment and potentially unreliable hosted VoIP services. The company successfully raised a total of $31.6 million over 12 funding rounds, with its first round in July 2005. Key institutional investors included Ascent Venture Partners, Bessemer Venture Partners, and Castile Ventures. After a decade of operations, Whaleback Systems was acquired by Fuze on August 12, 2014.