Irish technology consultancy Unitech Systems has been awarded the Leader for Linux channel partner status by IBM.
In obtaining this status, Unitech was required not only to demonstrate a commitment to the IBM Linux programme, but also to be able to show a real ability to deliver Linux-based solutions for its customers. This included the implementation of Linux solutions, the training of staff in recognised Linux-certification programmes and also the inclusion of Linux-based solutions in Unitech’s total solution stack.
IBM is a leading advocate of Linux and its channel partner programme is structured to accelerate Linux adoption and business partner success by providing rewards for performance. As part of the Leader for Linux status, Unitech will receive intensive education training updates and sales and marketing support.
“This award recognises Unitech’s investment in Linux expertise and technical skills along with our ability to deliver advanced Linux technical services across our four key solution areas – IT consolidation, storage and data management, high availability and infrastructure management,” said Tomas O’Leary, joint managing director, Unitech.
“Unitech is the second IBM channel partner in Ireland to receive Leader for Linux status and we feel it represents a clear endorsement of our commitment to innovation and the early adoption of new technologies,” O’Leary added.
In the past 12 months, Unitech Systems has seen significant growth, doubling staff numbers from eight to 16. A further four jobs have since been created bringing total staff numbers to 20. The Dublin-based firm said the expansion was made possible through winning considerable business with the public sector.
Unitech has also moved to new corporate headquarters in Sandyford Industrial Estate. The premises represents an initial investment of €500k and of €1m over three years by the company. It will also feature a new state-of-the-art TotalStorage Solution Centre (TSSC), which the company claims is the first of its kind in the Irish marketplace. The TSSC will be a dedicated demonstration and testing facility for latest IBM storage and server technology. Previously Irish customers that wanted to see the latest IBM technology for demonstration or testing often had to travel to the UK or to Germany.
Unitech was set up in 1998 to provide consultancy services on large and mid-range systems, principally in the IBM and Oracle markets. The company has grown rapidly and is an IBM premier business partner in Ireland. It offers a range of high-skill IT consultancy services in a range of areas, including IT consolidation, high availability, storage and infrastructure data management and its customer base includes Aer Lingus, First Active, Royal and Sun Alliance, Ulster Bank, Hibernian Group, AIB, Canada Life and Eagle Star.
By John Kennedy
