IBM is promoting its SmartCloud and PureSystems line-up with new incentives for the managed service providers (MSPs) that provide client companies with the local expertise needed to get things up and running.  Big Blue is really sweetening the deal with this push, via the addition of ‘unmatched’ sales and marketing assistance as well as other forms of support.

MSPs are getting access to a number of new resources, including a ‘significant part’ of IBM’s annual $100 million channel marketing budget.  Eligible partners can participate in a four-part education program on social media marketing, and will be able to leverage IBM’s analytics technology to gain a better insight into their customers’ behavior.

In addition, Big Blue is setting up training centers in four key markets – Shanghai, Tokyo, New York and  Ehningen, Germany – where MSPs will be able to gain technical understanding of SmartCloud, PureSystems and other technologies. At the same time IBM is also working on a ‘virtual briefing center’ in which partners will be able to share case studies and communicate with the vendor’s experts.

Lastly. MSPs will get a few branding options and will be able take advantage of long-term payment plans for IBM solutions and services.

“These new initiatives launched by IBM are unfolding new opportunities for our organization not only to create new business opportunities with clients but also seize the opportunity to expand our global reach.  The combination of  IBM’s technical expertise and focus on helping clients drive innovation with advanced technologies and its marketing engine will enable us to move beyond our traditional client base and reach new markets,” said Craig Gunderson, CEO of Oxford Networks.

FalconStor also had a major channel update this week. The data protection solutions maker launched its partner program in the Australia-New Zealand region, wrapping up the global roll out of the incentive plan.