Oct, 2001 : IBM Targets SMBs With WebSphere Integrated Server

📅 October 22, 2001 - IBM announced a new eServer integrated with WebSphere (ibm.com/websphere) that provides mid-sized customers with simply deployed e-business system.

This pre-integrated hardware and software system helps small and mediumbusinesses build Web-based solutions while taking advantage of the IBMeServer iSeries, including extensive ISV support, low total cost ofownership and popularity (more than 250,000 customers worldwide). Inaddition, customers can adopt open standards-based technologies includingJava 2 Enterprise Edition (J2EE), XML and Web services.
The system, called the IBM eServer iSeries Powered by WebSphere, is part ofIBM's strategy to deliver low-priced, easy-to-implement, integrated hardwareand software solutions to help mid-sized companies reduce the cost andcomplexity of e-business. According to IBM, small and medium business (up to1,000 employees) will represent 52 percent of the total server marketworldwide by 2004. The total IT opportunity for small and medium business ismore than $300 billion, and customers spend two-thirds of those dollars onsolutions for delivering fast return on their investment.
It includes a specially configured IBM eServer iSeries, pre-loaded withWebSphere Application Server software (Version 4) and WebSphere applicationdevelopment tools. Also included is optional services to ensure quick andaffordable deployment, including custom installation, setup services,consulting, application design and prototyping.
The pre-loaded WebSphere software comes with a new wizard that makes thesoftware easier to install and configure. WebSphere also offers customersthe flexibility to start with the basic unit and add technologies as needed,including personalization, portals, commerce, voice and wireless.
According to Michele Rosen, Research manager, IDC, "With its full breadth ofsoftware, hardware and services, IBM can enable mid-market customers to gettheir e-businesses up and running quickly, easily, and with the ability toexpand."
The IBM eServer iSeries-with its support for Linux, Java, Windows and Unixapplications, and the ability to run multiple virtual servers on a singlesystem-offers small and medium businesses a alternative to the high costsand complexity of managing server farms.
"Small to medium-sized enterprises are moving from simple Web presence toconducting e-business transactions over the Web," said Sandy Carter, vicepresident, marketing and Channel Strategy for IBM WebSphere software. "Thepowerful combination of IBM eServer, WebSphere and unique services providescustomers with a simple, affordable way to adopt Web-based e-business."
The new server will be sold through IBM Business Partners and IBM saleschannels. General availability is expected in the fourth quarter of 2001.