Suppose a top-level executive with IBM were responding to the question.
Would s/he respond: "we have a
multiple-operating system strategy:  [AIX], Linux and NT." and not mention
OS/400, MVS, etc.? I think not.

John Burke

> -----Original Message-----
> From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
> Sent: Friday, July 28, 2000 1:22 PM
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: [HP3000-L] My thoughts on Ann Livermore's comments
>
>
> Hello 3000-L,
>
> Well, this is my first posting to 3000-L, so please be gentle
> with me! I
> felt a need to share my thoughts with you regarding recent
> comments by Ann
> Livermore and the lack of HP e3000 inclusion.
>
> First, thank you for your feedback! I am aware that our
> communication has
> been inconsistent with regards to mention of MPE/iX.  I
> believe there are
> some valid reasons for this, and some work we need to
> continue to do to
> include mention of MPE/iX in appropriate areas. But let me
> assure you that
> MPE/iX and the HP e3000 continue to be an important part of
> HP's product
> portfolio. And, HP as a company remains committed to this
> platform and to
> its rich customer base.
>
> While it is frustrating as an MPE customer or partner to hear any HP
> communication that does not include mention of MPE/iX, it is
> important to
> consider the context of these comments. HP's corporate
> strategy continues
> to focus on winning UNIX, NT and Linux market share. Many of
> our HP e3000
> customers work in these multi-operating system environments and this
> emphasis benefits us by strengthening the company as a whole
> -- including
> MPE/iX investments and commitments. There are also several
> instances where
> the media focuses on the competitiveness in the Unix and NT
> marketplace.
> At these times, HP must strike a balance on the providing prominent
> newsworthy information while respecting the installed base of
> products.
> Many times executives are drawn into comments that are directly in
> response to market movement by our competitors. In these cases, it is
> critical that our external message is clear and concise. Exclusion of
> MPE/iX in these situations should not be construed as a lack
> of commitment
> by HP or it's executives to the platform and customer base.
>
> Having said this, I do feel that it is important to highlight
> the HP e3000
> in appropriate forums. And we're doing good work in this area. We have
> recently announced the addition of the HP e3000 to the highly
> publicized
> HP Garage Program targeting internet start-ups. We plan on continued
> strong presence and attention for the HP e3000 and MPE/iX at
> the upcoming
> HP World show. We are continuing our unique customer and partner
> communications on the platform. But we can do better, and my team is
> working with HP executives to include consistent mention of
> the HP e3000
> in all appropriate forums.
>
> Now, I don't expect the HP e3000 to play the lead role in HP's overall
> computing strategy or to get the executive airtime of UNIX or
> NT. However,
> it remains an important part of our product portfolio and our customer
> base. This is an opinion that is shared by CSY and HP executive
> management. So, we will continue to work on new technologies,
> programs and
> communications around the HP e3000 - and to have it better
> represented in
> our executive's comments and presentations. I appreciate your
> comments and
> passion - and I'd also appreciate your support in the form of
> some time to
> work on this and in keeping your expectations in line with
> the fact that
> HP has many businesses and business needs to balance.
>
> Thanks for letting me share my thoughts,
>
> Christine Martino
> CSY WW Marketing Manager
>
>
> **********
> Posted from www.3kworld.com
>