Novell has unveiled a new partner programme catering for ISVs keen to deploy their applications in an appliance.

The SUSE Appliance programme will enable ISVs to combine their applications with the SUSE Linux Enterprise platform in one integrated package, the vendor claimed.

Novell also today unveiled the beta release of SUSE Linux Enterprise JeOS, a scaled-down version of the Linux Enterprise platform that it claims is perfectly suited to ISVs looking to create appliances. According to the vendor, this will simplify application deployment and support while dramatically cutting development costs.

The SUSE Appliance programme allows ISVs to build software appliances that can be run natively on x86-based hardware, or as a virtual appliance.

Nat Friedman, chief technology for open source at Novell, said: "We've heard from multiple ISVs that they want to deploy their application in an appliance. Our SUSE Linux Enterprise JeOS release is a perfect platform for creating and distributing ISV applications.

“With today's announcement of the beta release of SUSE Linux Enterprise JeOS and an accompanying early adopter programme, we are inviting ISVs to try SUSE Linux Enterprise JeOS and help us build the perfect platform and practices for appliance deployment."

Al Gillen, research vice president, System Software, at IDC, said: "IDC believes software appliances will play an important role in the future of application deployments. Software appliances empower ISVs to deliver a fully configured, optimised software stack that incorporates the operating system, lower-level infrastructure products and applications in a unified, easily managed package
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