HDS to now push its software business

After rolling out some aggressive strategies for its primary storage business, Hitachi Data Systems (HDS) is now looking at its software business in a big way. The company is looking at establishing its software products division as an independent profit center in the country as well as other APac regions. So far, the company typically used to bundle its software solutions and services along with the products that it used to sell. "However, we see a huge potential for selling these storage area management (SAM) solutions independently, hence this move to pursue it as a separate business opportunity," informs Sunil Nawani, National Channels Manager,
HDS. 

According to him, a separate team would be established to look after developing the business for a wide range of HDS´ software asset management software. This includes HiCommand and Performance suite of products. Informing more about HDS´ range of software products, Sunil says, "The unique thing about our software solution is that it is highly interoperable and can work on any storage subsystems and not necessarily only Hitachi´s."

The company is also looking at appointing two gold partners (tier-1 SIs) and few associate partners (tier-2 SIs) to develop the software business for the company. However, it would continue to work closely with its existing partners like Apara and Wipro Infotech as well and Ingram would remain its distributor. "We are targeting nearly 20% of our overall Indian revenue to come from the software and services business," states Sunil.

He also informs that the company is introducing regular training program for its partners to "help them sell our software solutions better." In a bid to further create a stronger hold in the country, HDS has also recently appointed three channel managers: one each for North, South and West region.

GOLDIE