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Microsoft and Digital Equipment Corp. Form Strategic Alliance for Enterprise Solutions

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Microsoft and Digital Equipment Corp. have formed a strategic alliance to meet customer demand for Microsoft-based solutions and support in enterprisewide computing. The collaboration combines Microsoft's client-server products with Digital's leadership in enterprise systems, service, support, and systems integration. This partnership enables customers to deploy business solutions on the Microsoft Windows and Windows NT operating systems with assurance of integration into the most complex business environments.

Key Takeaways:

  • The alliance provides substantial funding by Microsoft in Digital's support and systems integration business focused on Microsoft-based solutions.
  • Digital is committed to train at least 1,500 new certified professionals for the business in 24 months.
  • Microsoft has selected Digital for the Launch Support Team of Windows 95 in the United States and for the Enterprise Migration Program.
  • The companies have reconfirmed their commitment to Windows NT on Alpha-based systems and will introduce a family of Intel- and Alpha-based systems optimized for Windows NT.
  • Digital will provide developer kits for three-tier client-server applications.
  • The partnership includes joint marketing and field engagement, with a marketing plan and joint management committee to oversee marketing programs.

Statistics:

  • Microsoft has funded Digital's support and systems integration business with substantial funding.
  • Digital aims to train at least 1,500 new certified professionals for the business in 24 months.
  • The companies have committed to a cross-licensing agreement on patent portfolios to facilitate cooperation.
  • Digital has more than 5 million mail customers who will be able to use Microsoft Exchange Server.
  • Digital is accelerating programs to integrate its OpenVMS systems with Windows NT, including client-server applications support, data, and system management.

Sources:

  • Microsoft Corp.
  • Digital Equipment Corp.
  • PRNewswire
  • /CONTACT: Press Only: Peggy Stabler of Waggener Edstrom for Microsoft Corp., 206-637-9097; or Dan Kaferle of Digital Equipment Corp., 508-493-2195/ (MSFT DEC)

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