Navision and IBM form global alliance

Mid manufacturing market enterprise software developer Navision has formed a global alliance with IBM to provide implementation and support services eventually around the world, but specifically in Europe and the UK. As part of the deal, Navision is currently being ported to the IBM iSeries (formerly AS/400), with general release scheduled for Q2 2002. Fleming Beisner, managing director of Navision UK, says: “It’s a huge opportunity for us to provide specific vertical channels with more modern and generic ERP software; companies are very loyal to iSeries.” And he adds: “I expect it to add significantly to our growth in the UK… and the UK will grow much more than the others in Europe.” With no clear leader in the mid market and IBM’s stance of independence on the Global Services side, combined with encouraging sales of its iSeries, building on its existing relationship with Navision is no more than a logical move.