Re: IBM i hosting "in the cloud"

My requirements are similar to that stated by others here. I have need of a reliable, _current_, system to develop education, run classes and also to run both my own business and that of System i Developer. I would be more than happy to invest in any sensible cloud-based solution that met my needs. I keep hoping that IBM, who let's face it are in the best position and should have a vested interest, will offer something but so far nothing.

Unlike Aaron the ISV route is not an option for me unless I am prepared to "fake" having a product - which at this time I am not prepared to do.

I have tried working with IBM over the years via a number of avenues: The Business Partner program - which removed us from the membership level that allows discounted hardware purchase because we don't sell hardware; The ISV program which as stated above requires you be developing a software product; The Education Partner program - which has so many silly rules and enforced pricing restrictions that it would cost me money to run classes; and many other avenues that have been explored over the years.

Education and Open Source software, both of which are vital to the IBM i community just don't have a place on IBM's radar it seems. If currency wasn't important I could purchase a used machine - but since many (most?) of those no longer seem to carry their license keys even that avenue is closing.

There really are days when becoming a Windows or Unix developer sounds like a really good idea. Quick someone - slap me before I become completely incoherent!


Jon Paris

www.Partner400.com
www.SystemiDeveloper.com