HP to increase partner base for Linux, HPC business

Realizing the need to have a wider partner footprint to tap opportunities in the Linux and high-performance computing (HPC) space, HP India would shortly be doubling the strength of its solution provider base. Currently, the company has about 10 such partners, who have dedicated focus on the Linux and HPC business. “In 2005, we would like to add another 10 solution partners across the eight major cities,” said Faisal M Paul, Country Manager, HPC and Linux, HP India.

According to him, the company would make these partners more equipped, both in terms of technology and business skill-sets. “We intend launching a range of sales and pre-sales programs for these dedicated partners. While we have been very aggressive in our HPC and Linux business, year 2005 will see an increased visibility of our strategy,” added Faisal. In the HPC space alone, the company did a business of about $4 million (approx Rs 20 crore) last fiscal (Nov 03-Oct 04) and indicates that it is currently working on a sales funnel of nearly $15-20 million.

Rajiv Kaul, MD, Microsoft India presented the ‘MBS Partner of the Year’ award to Ajay Mian, CEO, All e Technologies, in Cochin. The award to All e is a recognition of the intense efforts, successful project implementations track record and the huge commitment the company has exhibited for Microsoft Business Solutions and its customers.

“While we are also finalizing our marketing budgets for this business line, a total expenditure of $1 million can be expected, which would also include scaling up its infrastructure for putting in place a Linux Competency Center in Bangalore,” informed Faisal.

Responding to the question why HP’s marketing push for Linux was low-key compared to close competitor IBM, Faisal said, “We have a huge business around our UNIX and Windows-based servers. We would like to balance all three platforms. Unlike competitors, we don’t see the need to make noise about Linux.”

GOLDIE & PRIYA PADMANABHAN