Compaq gets into a cluster with SCO

Compaq and SCO have announced a reseller recruitment, training and certification programme aimed at boosting sales of UnixWare NonStop Clusters. The programme, which is rolled-out in Europe this quarter, is designed to certify current Compaq and SCO Vars and distributors to sell UnixWare NonStop Clusters on Compaq servers. The scheme, which aims to boost sales of the clustered operating environment into large enterprises, is being funded jointly by the two vendors. "We saw a huge opportunity for UnixWare NonStop clusters that required a bold take-to-market plan," said SCO's senior vice president of marketing Ray Anderson. "We want to aggressively pursue a broader market." Clustering technologies have previously been used only by large telecom-type customers, but vendors are keen to develop the market, selling into other areas where customers need scalable platforms. Under the programme, European Vars and distributors, currently certified by both SCO and Compaq, can become certified UnixWare NonStop Cluster resellers. Certified resellers will receive extensive training in product installation, service and support according to the vendors. Distributor Ingram Micro welcomed the move to develop a framework for the clustering channel. "We look forward to driving the reseller initiative," said director of Unix marketing David Ochser.