Palm gives Asian companies a hand
The first program, called the Enterprise Alliance Program (EAP), will see Palm working with 16 partners across Asia-Pacific, including one regional and four Singapore-based companies. The initiative aims at developing computing solutions based on the Palm OS platform for various enterprises.
The regional partner for the program is PwC Consulting, which will help enterprises in Asia-Pacific integrate mobile capabilities, such as remote access to corporate e-mail, into their existing infrastructure.
The other four partners in Singapore are IBM, KPMG Consulting, National Computer Systems and Singapore Computer Systems. Like PwC Consulting, these companies will develop solutions and offer services that allow enterprises to utilize mobile and wireless solutions in areas such as providing rapid access to information and warehouse inventory.
Palm will provide support, including training, market development, and joint marketing initiatives, to aid EAP partners in developing solutions for enterprises. However, no dollar value was attached to the initiative.
With EAP, enterprises in Singapore will have access to technology and expertise to quickly and cost-effectively deploy Palm-powered handhelds in their businesses.
"Companies in Singapore will be in a position to specify an end-to-end solution that meets their unique needs," said Craig Will, Palm Inc Vice President for Asia-Pacific at the launch.
The second initiative announced is the Palm Enterprise Hardware Service Program. This program aims to provide Singapore businesses peace of mind when using Palm handhelds.
When a company joins the program, it can take advantage of various features including comprehensive hardware replacement, replacement of non-warranty items such as damaged screens and casings, and immediate on-site replacement of handhelds when needed. A Web-based tracking of service order and repair status are also available using the Palm Web Tracker.
"Palm's goal is to aid companies in servicing and supporting Palm handhelds in their organization," Will explained. He added that the convenience of on-site replacement will enable companies to effectively deploy Palm handhelds in their businesses.
To meet the needs of different business users, various service packages are available and companies can select a package that suits their needs. The program is available through enterprise resellers and system integrators, including the companies which are partners in Palm's Enterprise Alliance Program.
All past and present Palm handhelds are eligible for inclusion in the program.