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