IBM Creates AS/400 Specific Center for ASPs
By Jim Martin
In an attempt to capitalize on the expected surge of network-based applications, IBM has implemented a new initiative dubbed Service Providers for e-Business.
An integrated portfolio of products, services and support programs, the new suite is designed to help application service providers (ASPs), independent software vendors (ISVs) and other customers rent applications to businesses over the Web. Service Providers for e-Business will specifically target Internet Service Providers (ISPs) that provide hosting and access, ASPs that provide subscription or rental-based applications, as well as ISVs and integrators.
“Service providers offering new value-added e-business applications are in the early stages of what we think is one of the most important business trends today,” says Jim Corgel, general manager of IBM Global Service Provider Industries. “To seize on this opportunity, service providers need a technology company that can deliver more than the components needed to deliver all of the business tools service providers require to take advantage of the tremendous business opportunity before them.”
As part of the program, new service provider offerings include IBM’s AS/400, RS/6000, S/390 NUMA-Q, and Netfinity servers, all of which will be packaged with applications, service, financing and support.
IBM has opened a new AS/400 Solution Developer Center in Rochester, Minn. The new center, ASP Prime for the AS/400, is designed to initiate ISV business development and provide the application enablement required for businesses to host applications via the Internet.