Re: Software support options when you don't have an IBM contract

   We are on SERVIT support for several reasons.
     * IBM wanted us to pay for 3 years in one bill, management wanted to apy
       as we go
     * SERVIT service is faster in small towns than IBM support
     * SERVIT does everything we need from IBM for lower price
     * SERVIT does not change their contact method faster than we can
       remember it, like IBM has done a lot to us
     * While SERVIT is nationwide, every local community has an IBM partner
       with which you can make some kind of arrangement
   What is most critical is to make sure the box remains with some outift
   whose support is such that you are on the equivalent of IBM maintenance,
   so that if you need to go back on, there is not a HUGE fee, to make sure
   your box measures up to IBM standards.  We had an occasion when we needed
   to move our box to a different office & get it hooked up right.  Depending
   on where you getting your service from, and who checking it hooked up
   right, can make a HUGE difference in the support costs. & hassle.

     All,

     Besides this list ;-), what are the options for software support when
     you don't have an IBM support contract?

     Our current contract is expiring, and since we are moving off the
     iSeries during the next year, management is considering not renewing.

     I assumed IBM offered a pay per incident option for support but
     apparently that isn't the case. You can report defect for free, but
     other than that IBM apparently doesn't want to talk to you.

     This is the first time I've ever even thought of living without a
     support contract.

     Thanks,

     Charles Wilt
     --
     iSeries Systems Administrator / Developer
     Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America
     ph: 513-573-4343
     fax: 513-398-1121
      

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