IBM targets Gujarat SMEs for SMSR, Cognos Express

Even as the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Gujarat look to increase their technology adaptability, IBM has forayed with its market specific products in hardware, software and security services, among other things. With an increasing need for data storage and security among SMEs, IBM is expanding its footprint in the state by offering products like Scalable Modular Server Rooms (SMSR) and Cognos Express, apart from other services.

Sharing IBM's strategic plans for the state, Vanitha Narayanan, vice president - sales, IBM India/South Asia said, "Gujarat plays a very important role in IBM's strategy for geographic expansion in India. We are extremely excited about extending our partnership to a wide range of clients in the state - both from public and private sector. We are confident of bringing the best of IBM - local as well as global expertise - to clients here, to help them achieve their business goals."

A pre-designed and pre-fabricated data center, SMSR is specifically targeted at mid-market customers that is cost, energy and space efficient. At an entry level price of Rs 25 lakhs, the ready-to-be-assembled data center occupies less than 300 sq ft of area, thereby suiting SMEs' needs. Similarly, on the business intelligence (BI) side, IBM aims to offer its Cognos Express, a low cost BI and planning solution designed for midsized companies.

In the network security segment, IBM aims to offer products and services for as low as Rs 1,400-1,500 per user fee.

The company is also enhancing its partnerships in Gujarat by working with NGOs and corporates alike. So far, IBM has partnered with the likes of Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), Atul Limited, Kohler, Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIMA), Gujarat Gas and Torrent Pharmaceuticals, among others in the state.