Since getting started in this industry over 10 years ago, I've been amazed by the never-ending stream of companies trying to build better mousetraps in the Talent Management (aka Applicant Tracking) space.

I understand why it's a tempting niche - customers routinely report that they are unhappy with their existing software and want better alternatives, but somehow the profits never seem to arrive for most.  Industry watchers have been predicting consolidation for years.

Today, Taleo (profile; site) announced that they acquired Vurv Technology(profile; site) for $128.8 million in cash & stock.  The deal combines two of the strongest players in the space, so the consolidation is finally underway - at least among the major players.

For the record, Jason Corsello called this last week.  Corsello: 1, Anonymous cowards in the comments: 0.