Fujitsu launches European ebusiness push

Company launches Interstage Application Server 4

Fujitsu is looking to expand its ebusiness software channel with the launch of its Interstage Application Server 4 software.

According to the company, the product allows firms to build and run their web-based business software "efficiently and smoothly".

Interstage will be installed on more than 25,000 servers worldwide by the end of this year, claimed Declan Jones, European Fujitsu Solution Centre manager.

"The future of ebusiness lies in an information system infrastructure that will facilitate seamless connectivity and interoperability within and among enterprises as well as increasing human productivity," he explained.

Fujitsu has launched a dual-track programme aimed at system integrators and resellers, he said, adding that the firm is in discussions with a number of potential UK channel partners.

Ron Alepin, general manager of Fujitsu's enterprise product division, pointed out that the company has been in the ebusiness sector in Japan for many years, but has decided that "now is the time for the push in Europe. We have spent $40m (£28.2m) on creating awareness of our ebusiness software."

The channel is crucial to Fujitsu's success in Europe, Alepin said, explaining that the company is looking for as many partners as possible in the first 12 months. "We are in a position to provide support and training and we have the infrastructure and collateral," he said.

Steve Brazier, chief executive at analyst Canalys.com, said it is all very well for big companies such as Fujitsu to want to take on partners, but questioned whether the partners would want them.

"The key to a successful programme is persuading potential partners to undertake the training and make them believe it will be worth their while," he said.