Linux educational program for Business Partners

March 30, 2001

To help respond to the increasing demand for Linux-trained professionals, IBM is launching the "Ready, Set, Linux!" initiative for Business Partners interested in supporting e-business on Linux.

The program will be available in cities across the United States, with the opening session in Dallas.

This educational series will provide Business Partners with in-depth Linux training -- technical sessions, certification guidelines, incentives, technical support programs and an overview of IBM's e-business solutions.

The three-phased program features:

• Ready -- education on market opportunity and how to get started with IBM.
• Set -- a two-day, hands-on technical training on Linux and e-business solutions, featuring IBM eServer and software.
• Linux! -- an ongoing enablement and support initiative featuring educational roadmaps leading to certification and access to key PartnerWorld benefits for partners delivering e-business solutions for Linux.

IDC anticipates that Linux will remain the fastest growing server operating system through 2004, with a compound annual growth rate of 28 percent from 2000 to 2004. According to IDC, the market opportunity for software on Linux is expected to grow even faster.