IBM Launches Expanded iSeries Partner Program

IBM (www.ibm.com) announced that it will significantly increase its investments to engage nearly 10 times as many partners developing software applications and tools for its premier mid-market server, the eServer iSeries platform.

"By expanding our support from hundreds to thousands of iSeries partners, IBM expects to open up a floodgate of innovation from third-party software vendors and developers who are eager to create on demand applications for the rapidly growing small and medium business market," said Mark Shearer, general manager, IBM eServer iSeries.

IBM will now provide up to $50,000 in incremental services to more than 2,500 software partners and application tool developers to create and deliver innovative business solutions on the iSeries platform for midmarket clients.

The services in the new IBM eServer iSeries Initiative for Innovation program include access at no charge to IBM's experts in Rochester, Minn.; putting more iSeries people and investment into five Innovation Centers around the globe to help with the development of on demand business capabilities.

An example of innovation in action is Vormittag Associates Inc (VAI), a software provider for the retail, manufacturing and distribution industries. VAI worked with iSeries development and marketing teams to develop a suite of portlets to give its customers a choice of a full GUI front-end.

"Having resources from IBM to help develop our business plan, shape our software development and conduct co-marketing, helped us develop new products that are getting a lot of attention and attracting a new set of customers to the iSeries platform," said Bob Vormittag, president, VAI.

IBM today unveiled a charter to outline its enduring and future commitments to fuel innovation in iSeries solutions, partner applications and on demand capabilities for clients around the world.

IBM will leverage its large investment in the iSeries platform over the last two years to secure iSeries leadership as the most complete business solution to simplify IT environments and enhance the value of customers' and iSeries business partners' existing investments.

"The iSeries platform has delivered tremendous benefits to its SMB customers for decades," said Marc Lautenbach, general manager, IBM Global Small and Medium Business.

The IBM iSeries system is a tightly integrated system including hardware, middleware, storage and security. iSeries systems can run i5/OS, Windows (via an IXA or IXS), Linux and AIX operating environments simultaneously so clients can reinvest those savings to grow their business.