Firms link up to provide accreditation

BY ADAM GIFFORD

Unisys ASP Services and Vodafone have teamed up to provide accreditation for firms developing software for application service providers (ASPs) and mobile internet.

Unisys ASP Services manager Sean McDonald said independent software vendors (ISVs) could benefit from access to the intellectual property Unisys had generated over the past year in developing its ASP strategy, as well as having access to the research and development done by Vodafone into the new general packet radio service (GPRS) cellular network and wireless application protocol (WAP).

"E-accreditation tells you the application architecture is developed in the right way and it can be scaled, performance-tested and tuned for an independent ASP based on Microsoft standards," Mr McDonald said.

"Viper [Vodafone initiative for partnering emerging resource] extends that on, so you can get accredited for mobile applications.

"ISVs need a vehicle to get their applications to a global market. This programme allows them to get global visibility on a proven platform through two multinationals."

Once an application reached level 3 certification, Unisys ASP Services would offer to host it "or they can take it offshore with our certification to similar Microsoft-based ASPs."

Six firms were putting their software through the programme, Mr McDonald said.

Other applications being tested include Delta's Infra Active web-based help desk and Enterprise Performance Solutions' asset-management software, Elanfa.

Vodafone GPRS general manager Gail La Grouw said the partnership was one of a number Vodafone was forming. It has more than 60 developers on Viper.