As technology implementations become more complex and as organizations in the Middle East become more dependent on networked systems, the pressing need for skilled local systems integrators is increasing.
Cisco Systems, an international Internet networking company, announced its partner certification programs have resulted in a number of recent specialisations and technical certifications.
The Cisco Partner Specialization Program helps partners to develop and demonstrate their expertise in technologies and services through structured training plans and a knowledge validation process. This certification means that partners have developed the expertise and skills to specify, sell, design, install and support network solutions.
Middle East Data Systems Saudi Arabia, Saudi Business Machines, Getronics Middle East, United Business Machines Jordan, Gulf Business Machines, NCR, Data Consult Lebanon, Emirates Computers UAE, Kuwaiti Danish Computer Company and International Turnkey Systems Saudi Arabia (ITS) have recently met the certification requirements for specialisations such as wireless LANs, VPN Security, network management and IP Telephony.
“The technical expertise they have developed will allow these Cisco partners to differentiate themselves from their competitors, provide greater depth of customer service and migrate to a higher-margin services-based business model,” a Cisco press release said.
“We have always been distinguished as a total solution provider and system integrator,” said Saad Nasir, ITS Regional Manager for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. “ITS is focusing on providing Wireless LAN solutions to its customers, as wireless networks have a short set-up time, which is a great benefit to organizations that need urgent connectivity. We have recently completed specialization in DSL, which demonstrates ITS’ focus and expertise in the last-mile and remote connectivity solutions as well.”
Mike Gleave, Networking Marketing Manager for Gulf Business Machines (GBM) commented that there is a growing requirement for highly skilled networking services in the Gulf as customers build more sophisticated networks. “GBM’s focus has been on Internet Security: the recent Cisco VPN Security Specialisation Program coupled with the Cisco Network Management Specialisation Program have enabled us to bring world-class skills to the Gulf marketplace,” said Gleave.
“The recently acquired specializations will allow us to provide our customers with new business applications,” said Hazim Al Nemri, Branch Manager of Mideast Data Systems. “This will allow us, as a dedicated Cisco partner, to focus better on technology solutions offered by Cisco. VPN security specialization will enable us to tailor solutions to our customers to reduce security risk and provide a platform to expand their business with Intranet, extranet and electronic commerce applications, as well as helping to protect sensitive data and corporate resources from intrusion.” — (menareport.com)
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