IBM Global Services and Cisco Systems Canada

A multi-level alliance between two world-class technology providers

Cisco Systems - the world market leader in internetworking technology, and IBM global services - the world's largest it service organization and an end-to-end multi-vendor networking integrator, are working together to deliver e-business and networking solutions.

IBM Global Services, a multi-vendor networking integrator providing end-to-end networking solutions with global capabilities, has a "commanding position in the worldwide network consulting and integration services market," according to IDC. As a Cisco Gold-Certified Partner, IBM Global Services (Canada) also holds expert status in many aspects of networks with Cisco products, including sales, support, network design, network management and global networking.

Cisco Gold-Certified Partners gain exclusive access and privileges that also benefit customers

Technology and Information Access

As a Cisco Gold-Certified Partner, IBM Global Services has the same level of access to Cisco technology as the original manufacturer. Gold partnership also ensures IBM Global Services has privileged access to the latest Cisco strategic and product information, and networking developments, plus ongoing communication and special technical support services to assist IBM in delivering effective networking strategies and customized network solutions.

Cisco-trained engineers and technicians

IBM Canada has over 150 Network Consultants, Architects, Specialists, Service Experts and Project Managers, many of whom are Cisco-trained, in everything from CCDP to CCIE certification. As well, many members of the company's national sales team are certified as Cisco Sales Experts.

2 and 4 Hour Service Response

IBM Global Services stocks spare parts across the country within its parts logistics infrastructure and provides a standard response time of 2 or 4 hours within 90 KM of major cities in Canada. IBM provides a reliable and trusted support infrastructure, supporting mission-critical Cisco router networks and switches in Canada.

Access to the Cisco Support System

Cisco Gold-Certified Partners are linked electronically to the Cisco support system and internal databases for faster trouble isolation and resolution.

IBM Networking Technology Centre

Considered by Cisco to be among the best labs in Canada, the new Markham, Ontario-based IBM Networking Technology Centre is a multi-vendor lab environment capable of simulating real network environments for testing and development. IBM's significant investment in this multi-million dollar facility includes over $7 milllion in Cisco technology. Round-the-clock support is provided by over 50 network specialists with certifications from Cisco Systems and other leading networking technology companies.

Working Together for the future

While Cisco is strengthening its commitment to Gold Certified Partner IBM Global Services, IBM is investing in its relationship with Cisco. In addition to earning Gold Partner certification and investing in Cisco technology for the IBM Networking Technology Centre, IBM Global Services will participate in Cisco's Global Support Partner Program and Cisco Voice Application Partner Specialization.

As well, IBM Learning Services has become an authorized Cisco Learning Partner. This will enable IBM to deliver Cisco Career Certifications training in e-learning and classroom format to IBM employees, IBM's Global Customers, and to professionals throughout the networking industry. As a Cisco Learning Partner, IBM Learning Services will provide networking professionals with easy access to training designed to keep their skills competitive in the Internet Economy. This relationship is one of the first developments to come from the groundbreaking worldwide strategic alliance between Cisco Systems and IBM Global Services.

A Worldwide Strategic Alliance

Cisco Systems and IBM Global Services have invested in a worldwide strategic alliance that will assist their customers to move to Internet-based processes. Cisco and IBM will offer a full spectrum of services and jointly-developed solutions for e-business and networking. Service providers and business customers will gain an expanded set of network solutions to address e-business requirements, open Internet-based architectures for data, voice and video services, and enterprise management. This global strategic alliance helps companies rely on IBM Global Services for Cisco support needs - from network consulting and design, to procurement, implementation and maintenance. IBM Global Services will continue to provide strong Cisco support by educating more employees on Cisco products and certification while also enhancing the skills of those specialists already trained and proficient in Cisco networking support.