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IBM Cloud Computing Specialty
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We would like to thank you for your interest in the IBM Cloud Computing Specialty Offering and we trust that your investment in this IBM Specialty Offering has given you valuable experience and insights.
As cloud computing has evolved into a primary method of delivering information technology, the need for cloud skills have become pervasive. Cloud skills and capabilities enable IBM Business Partners to help their clients think through the right cloud strategy, build cloud solutions and tap into our cloud services to leverage "as-a-service" offerings across a broad range of industries, technologies and solutions. In this environment a dedicated cloud specialty is no longer the optimal approach, which is why we are withdrawing it. Enabling our Business Partners to design, build and deliver best of breed cloud based solutions remains a key focus for IBM. Going forward, cloud computing content will be integrated across the broad range of education, certification, specialty and marketing offerings provided through IBM PartnerWorld.
Effective October 31, 2014, the IBM Cloud Computing Specialty will be withdrawn.
We understand this announcement may have implications on your business with IBM. The steps below contain important information to help you through the transition.
- New Applications – No new Cloud Computing Specialty applications will be accepted starting October 31, 2014. All existing applications which do not meet the criteria will be rejected.
- Active Specialty Business Partners – All current participants in the Cloud Computing Specialty will be notified of their next steps directly via email.
- Financial Benefits – Applicable financial benefits will be paid to Business Partners who achieve the Cloud Computing Specialty before its withdrawal. Please work with IBM PartnerWorld Contact Services if questions concerning eligibility and IBM marketing lead regarding benefit redemption.
- Business Partner Mark - Usage of IBM Specialty Business Partner mark and IBM Specialty Achievement Certificate will end on December 31, 2014.
For complete information on IBM Cloud, please visit IBM Cloud on IBM PartnerWorld. Alternative IBM offerings can be accessed via IBM PartnerWorld. We encourage you to read the full details for each of these offerings:
Cloud Computing Specialty sunset – FAQ
The IBM cloud computing specialty rewards IBM Business Partners who make a significant investment in skills and certifications, customer references, and have the ability to successfully provide, sell, and deploy cloud applications and services. Those Business Partners meeting the eligibility criteria receive access to a comprehensive set of PartnerWorld benefits that can help drive more sales and revenue.
IBM has greatly expanded its Business Partner focus on the cloud computing opportunity and has done so through multiple PartnerWorld offerings including the Cloud Computing Specialty, Managed Service Provider (MSP) Initiative, and Ready for SmartCloud Services. The revised Cloud Computing Specialty is simplified and is consolidated into two paths covering Cloud Builder and Cloud Provider.
- Cloud Builders
Business Partners that help clients to design, build, manage their cloud needs, typically integrating with existing infrastructure and public/hybrid/private clouds. The Business Partner uses a consultative, solution-oriented approach to build customized environments for clients.
- Cloud Providers
Business Partners that build and manage a hosted public cloud capability using both IBM Software and IBM Systems technologies and offerings. Managed service providers (MSP) and cloud service providers (CSP) are included in this path. This path covers firms who offer trusted advice to clients and services including platform as a service public cloud.
- Learn more and get started with the IBM Cloud Computing Specialty