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IBM introduced new configurations of its application server and tools, new subscription pricing, partner-oriented programs, and new Web services-focused initiatives at its PartnerWorld event in New Orleans this week.
At the companys annual fete for its partners, IBM Monday announced two additions to its WebSphere 5 application server line of products: the IBM WebSphere Application Server Enterprise and the WebSphere Studio Application Developer Integration Edition.
In addition, IBM announced general enhancements to the application server line, including enhanced management, integration and development capabilities, as well as enhanced Web services support. IBM now offers developers an integrated XML-based workflow engine and tools to lay out business processes in complex applications. The company is pushing standards in support of its Web services workflow technology, including the Business Process Execution Language for Web Services (BPEL4WS), Web Services Transactions (WS-TX) and Web Services Coordination (WS-C), officials said.
Meanwhile, IBM also announced a new subscription model. This is the first time the company has offered a subscription model for its middleware, which will go into effect this month. To provide a low-entry subscription model to developers, IBM is offering WebSphere Studio access through a subscription to IBM developerWorks Toolbox starting at $399 a year. WebSphere Studio Site Developer subscriptions cost $399, and WebSphere Studio Application Developer professional level subscriptions are priced at $1,749, IBM officials said.
Customers can get the WebSphere Studio Application Developer Integration Edition and the enterprise version of WebSphere Studio Enterprise Developer for $3,349.
For purchase, WebSphere Studio Application Developer Integration Edition Version 5 costs $6,000 per developer seat; and WebSphere Application Server Enterprise Version 5 is $25,000 per processor. Both will be available Feb. 21, the company said.
Meanwhile, IBM announced several Web services initiatives to help partners get up to speed with Web services, including a Speed-start Web services program that features technical support, education and a Web services Software Evaluation Kit. IBM also has established a Web Services Connection program; Web Services Advanced Training for Business Partners; WebSphere Business Integration Accelerators for Business Partners; and Web Services Industry Councils for promoting Web services in the financial, banking, manufacturing and insurance industries, IBM officials said.