IBM and Sage commit to Linux for SME's

IBM has announced an agreement with Sage, a major global supplier of business management software and related products and services to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), in one of the industry's strongest endorsements of Linux for business critical applications in the SME sector.

The agreement comprises two parts: Sage Line 500 will be available for Linux on upgraded IBM data management software on Intel-based servers, including IBM eServer xSeries; and under the second part of the agreement, Sage's business management application, Line 500, will be available as an integrated package on IBM's eServer iSeries range running Linux.

Both run on SuSE's Linux Enterprise Server, distributed by SuSE. Particularly suited to fast-growth companies, Sage's Line 500 allows mid-sized businesses to take a single view of their finance, distribution, manufacturing and service operations. The early Linux take-up by SMEs has mainly been for infrastructure applications like file/print sharing and web serving.

Commenting on the agreement Graham Wylie, Sage's UK managing director, said: "Linux is becoming very important to the business community, which is why we have taken the decision to support it. The agreement between IBM and Sage will give mid-sized companies greater choice and flexibility when choosing a business management solution.

"Companies wanting to invest in a comprehensive yet cost-effective business software solution like Sage Line 500 will now be able to implement the new system without having to change their IT infrastructure, which can be expensive and time-consuming."

Following its agreement with IBM, Sage is rationalising its future development strategy on Linux.

Sage business partners will benefit from additional revenue opportunities, and customers will enjoy enhanced integration capabilities and performance improvements.

The deal will also allow all of IBM's extensive network of Business Partners to gain easier accreditation to sell Sage Line 500 to the mid-market via joint programs such as new IBM/Sage one-day training seminars in the UK.

(MB)