Prime Programme to assist would-be ASPs

IBM claims that its expanded accreditation programme will help application service providers (ASPs), but analysts are warning customers not to rely too heavily on the brand name.

IBM's Prime Programme offers assistance to would-be ASPs wanting to make software applications available on the web. "It enables independent software vendors to move into the online world successfully and quickly," said Tosca Colangeli, director of ASP business.

The initial programme was set up a year ago, providing software companies with education, technical support, consulting services and financial advice.

The new additions include ASP Prime Online, which allows a business to test the viability of web-enabling its software applications.

Support for vendors wanting to test the scalability and reliability of Linux-based applications has also been bolstered by a $1bn investment, and through a co-marketing agreement with web-enablement company Tarantella.

IBM says the partnership with Tarantella will make Linux-based software easier to install, and speed time to market.

The final addition to the programme is the development of a 'competency centre' located at the ASP Prime Centre in Hursley. It will support IBM's high-end Unix servers based on non-uniform memory access (Numa) technology.

"Many ASPs struggle to find profitable business models in the early stages, but those that survive will be worth five to eight times more than they are now," said Colangeli.

IBM's programme is supported by chip maker Intel. The companies claim their combined support lends small software vendors credibility, which reassures customers.

"Potential customers can trust that the product they buy is tested and sound; we provide the stamp of approval," said Intel market development manager, Dr Heiner Genzken.

But analysts are sceptical, and warn that the reasons big players are setting up such programmes is to gain more business from independent software vendors.

Gartner research vice president Peter Dueck says users should also be wary of relying on the IBM branding when buying software from an ASP.

"Startup ASPs don't have a brand name, and will use whatever they can. It is important to do the research, because not every company that has a badge is a good one," he said.

Software vendors that complete the one- to two-week Prime Programme receive an IBM accreditation badge which can be attached to their website.

More than 150 software vendors have completed the programme since it began in 1999, and IBM says 120 companies in Europe and the Middle East are waiting to begin it.

"No-one is offering anything like this. We provide an ecosystem for vendors, with a software asset and a useful tool for end-users trying to navigate through all the choices," said Colangeli.

Financial software supplier Chorus, the first UK company to go through the prime Programme, 'graduated' in December last year. Managing director Neil Cross said the IBM badge has opened doors for the company.

"The IBM logo provides customers with a level of security. It makes them feel secure about their purchase," he said.

End-users renting software from different IBM-accredited vendors can run the applications on a consistent infrastructure, making them more affordable, claimed Cross.

Also published in Computing

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