IBM enhances focus on iSeries servers

IBM has enhanced focus on its iSeries servers, formerly known as the AS 400 range to further its penetration in the Indian market and increase its channel engagement. Launched just two years ago for mid-range applications, the product contributes close to 25 percent of the server revenue for IBM.

iSeries products come with consolidation capability and can run applications designed for various OS out of a single machine. The server can run AS 400, NT, Linux and UNIX applications concurrently in a single environment.

As part of its iAlliance, a promotion for the iSeries, launched two months ago, IBM has signed up with eight new partners to promote iSeries-based solutions in the country. "We will add a few more by the end of December this year when IBM ends phase I of the program," says Nipun Mehrotra, Brand Executive, e-Server

iSeries, ASEAN/SA.

95 percent of the revenue for the iSeries in the ASEAN region, excluding India comes from the channel. "The global average is however lower, around the 80-85 percent mark," adds Mehrotra. Ironically the Indian average is still lower at 65 percent.

"It is still better as compared to other high-end products," Mehrotra clarifies quickly. Mehrotra ideally desires to push this average up and take some share from competitors too in the high-end application sphere.

(CNS)