HCL teams up with Microsoft to attract SMBs

HCL Infosystems (HCL) and Microsoft Corporation India (Microsoft) teamed up
to target the SMB segment by launching servers for this segment and various IT
solutions. The vendors are looking forward to educate partners about various
opportunities existing in the SMB segment. HCL NetManager servers will now come
as preloaded and preconfigured with Microsoft Small Business Server 2003.

The two companies announced the launch of IT solutions that include hardware,
security, storage, networking and connectivity, software and application as well
as facility management and training for partners and customers as well. Karthik
Padmanabhan, Business Group Lead at Microsoft said, "We will offer all
these services as tailor-made for SMBs. This is a first of its kind of
initiative in the country and provides a great value proposition to the SMB
customers." This will be a one stop shop for SMBs willing to adopt IT
applications to streamline their businesses.

Karthik also added, "SMBs also need the flexibility of a customized IT
environment that meets their specific needs. We aim to provide this segment with
the best technology at the lowest cost." With the added advantage of
sourcing all IT components from one OEM, this initiative provides the SMB
audience with an unmatched value proposition.

Rajendra Kumar, VP (operations), HCL, said that, "Recent IDC study
estimates that there are around 1.8 million Small and Medium Enterprises in
India. Out of which, half yet don't have PCs, this fact presents a huge
business opportunity for us." He added that this tie-up is to target these
businesses by launching servers and IT solutions for SMBs.

HCL is closely looking forward to enhance the number of partners. "As of
now, HCL has around 300 partners but this number is expected to go up to 1000 in
the next five to six months." Rajendra informed.

He also added, "We also have strong plans to increase the numbers of
ISVs within a short time frame. Right now, we have around 20 ISVs and by the end
of two to three months, we expect to have around 100 ISVs up and running. This
will also lead to a substantial growth in focussed business verticals as
well."

He also elaborated that the server solution has been designed and built by
HCL keeping in mind that an SMB's success depends on all connected users
having fast, easy and uninterrupted access to the company's computing
resources. Also available would be HCL Desktops-Busybee preloaded with Windows
XP Pro operating system and Office Basic 2003. Catering to the specific needs of
a small and medium enterprise, the offering is a complete and very affordable
network solution.

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