IBM looks to take advantage of Dell EMC ‘disruption’

IBM is targeting Dell and EMC flash storage customers with a new migration programme to take advantage of “potential disruption” from the looming Dell acquisition of EMC.

At the same time, IBM has launched a new range of “cost-conscious” all-flash storage solutions for firms of all sizes.

IBM’s Flash In is a “no-cost” migration initiative providing organisations that are not current IBM customers with a “smooth transition path to the IBM family of all-flash arrays”, said Big Blue.

Under the new programme, clients will receive data migration and installation services for five consecutive days for either on-site replacements or upgrades.

Channel players not already involved with IBM are also being invited to the party. “Business partners looking to add IBM as a strategic vendor will find a set of comprehensive benefits that compare very favourably to what they may experience today,” said IBM.

Up to 80 percent of IBM all-flash storage is sold by IBM Business Partners. “The IBM Flash In initiative will amplify the company’s all-flash offensive to help Business Partners reach new clients not currently served by IBM, and clients who may face potential disruption if there are product portfolio integrations with Dell and EMC,” the vendor said.

The new IBM Storwize V7000F and IBM Storwize 5030F are all-flash arrays aimed at data centre and cloud environments.

“These solutions address a clear need for clients that require a substantial increase in storage performance but at a price that’s in line with the reality of today’s data centre budgets,” said Ed Walsh, general manager of IBM storage and software defined infrastructure.

“IBM’s new all-flash solutions provide robust security and the reliability that organisations need as they move to cloud and cognitive environments.”

The new Storwize storage solutions will be available worldwide from IBM and through IBM Business Partners from early September. Pricing begins at $19,000.

@AntonySavvas