HDS attracts more ISVs with partner initiative

Vendor hopes three-tier programme will expand its reach into UK vertical markets

Storage vendor Hitachi Data Systems (HDS) is looking for more ISVs in the UK to join its dedicated ISV partner programme.

The scheme already boasts vendor partners such as Computer Associates (CA) and Symantec, but HDS is also looking for smaller ISVs that can expand its geographical and vertical reach in the UK.

Jonathan Grantham, sales director UK and Ireland at HDS, said the programme rewards ISV partners that have invested in HDS’s suite of solutions, and particularly in the Hitachi Content Archive Platform, its recently launched digital content archiving and records management system.

“We launched the ISV programme for many reasons, but mainly because it takes the risk out of investment for end-users,” he said. “It also provides our ISV partners with the brand recognition of Hitachi.”

HDS works with three levels of ISV partner – Platinum, Gold and Silver – and offers incentives such as joint marketing funds, technical training and support, education web seminars and access to marketing events.

Grantham added that all ISV partners will target the enterprise space. He said that the vendor is already seeing marked success in verticals such as healthcare and government.

Janet Waxman, vice-president for hardware, channels and alliances at analyst IDC, said: “The HDS ISV partner programme provides a valuable service that ensures that hardware and software components have undergone intensive interoperability testing.

“This collaboration will enable clients to obtain and optimise the functionality from each company’s products, while reducing potential IT support costs.”

Nick Mehta, senior director product management at Symantec, said: “The ability to use enterprise quality storage infrastructures, such as those offered by HDS, creates a powerful and reliable archiving offering for our customers.”

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