N@N

Softchoice Gains Authorization for IBM Software Business Partner Value Program

^{Published on 2009-11-19 06:19:40 - Market Wire}
 

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Nov. 19, 2009) - Softchoice Corporation (TSX:SO) is pleased to announce it has become one of the first partners to be fully authorized under IBM's new Software Business Partner Value Program. As of January 25th, 2010, IBM will require partners to complete mandatory technical certifications across 11 product categories in order to resell corresponding software licenses. By successfully completing the certification process, Softchoice joins a select group of National value added resellers capable of supporting IBM's entire portfolio of software solutions. The new program is designed to help customers identify top tier partners with proven expertise in configuring solutions, reducing implementation risk, and increasing the return on investment for IBM technologies.

"IBM has raised the bar for its partner community and I am pleased to say that Softchoice has risen to the challenge," said David MacDonald, President and CEO of Softchoice. "Through our investments in pre-sales and professional services resources, we continue to increase our value by serving as a single, reliable source for comprehensive IBM solutions."

To achieve the designation Softchoice was required to complete more than 80 certifications and demonstrate advanced skills and knowledge in the design and delivery of IBM solutions. Key technologies include Information Management, DB2, Lotus, Tivoli, WebSphere, Rational and the ValueNet solutions of Optim, Cognos and InfoSphere. As a Premier IBM partner, Softchoice provides critical resources to ensure organizations make educated purchasing decisions while benefitting from faster deployments and reduced implementation risk. This includes access to software licensing specialists as well as senior Enterprise Architects and Professional Services personnel who provide counsel and logistical support with respect to selecting, integrating and deploying mid-market and enterprise-class IBM technologies.

"IBM's Business Partner Value Program is aimed at ensuring customers receive the highest quality of service and support," added Toby Banks, Director of IBM Solutions for Softchoice. "It's ultimately about reducing risk, costs and delivering peace of mind. Softchoice is uniquely positioned to do all of these things on behalf of customers across North America."

About Softchoice

As one of North America's leading providers of technology solutions and services, Softchoice helps businesses and organizations of all sizes to select, acquire and manage their software and hardware technology resources. Softchoice offers a full range of capabilities, including face-to-face consultations and IT asset management services designed to help customers save time, money and risk in IT procurement. Softchoice currently has 883 employees operating from more than 40 branch offices located in major cities across the U.S. and Canada.

Softchoice stock is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the trading symbol "SO." The common shares of Softchoice are not registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and are not publicly traded in the United States.