Software Quarterly

Going Beyond The Products

No matter what business they're in, everyone wants to succeed. That's true even if they aren't really in business, but in a government agency, non-profit organization, or the like. And, while nothing can guarantee success, it usually comes to those who work harder and smarter.

Helping people work smarter is what IBM software is all about, from advanced data-bases and online transaction processors to groupware and E-mail applications, from Web clients and servers to network and systems managers. Since we launched SQ magazine in 1994, we've worked to provide detailed, informative coverage that goes beyond simply talking about products. We've explored the full range of software-related issues and problems facing information technology (IT) professionals and business executives.

The cover story on Lotus Notes in this issue is a good example, detailing the major enhancements in Notes Release 4 and going beyond the product with an in-depth interview with Ray Ozzie, the man behind Lotus Notes.

After IBM bought Lotus Development last year, there was a lot of speculation in the IT media about whether Lotus and its entrepreneurial spirit could survive as a part of IBM. Some pundits went so far as to claim that the IBM/Lotus merger and the Internet's growth would throw a roadblock in front of Lotus Notes, the world's premier groupware application.

Given the fact that the IBM/Lotus team installed more Notes seats in the last six months of 1995 than had been sold in the previous six years, it doesn't look like much of a roadblock. Thanks to that strong vote of customer support-combined with delivery of Lotus Notes Release 4-questions about the effectiveness of the IBM/Lotus merger have about dried up.

Our interview with Ozzie is a direct response to dozens of readers' E-mail notes asking for his thoughts on Notes and the IBM/Lotus merger. Frankly, a lot of people wanted to know if Ozzie is still committed to Notes, so we asked him.

Recently, IBM captured the IT industry's attention again, this time by merging with Tivoli Systems, the leading distributed systems management software company. Hopefully, there won't be so much speculation this time around, and not just because of Lotus's initial strong success as part of IBM.

The advanced groupware, productivity applications, and systems management software from these companies complement IBM's extensive portfolio of software solutions that help customers work smarter. IBM is committed to delivering software that helps customers succeed, and helping customers succeed is the best path to success, in any business.

Alan E. Hodel

Editor In Chief


Alan E. Hodel has edited and produced both regional and national industry magazines. He is editor and publisher of /AIXtra: IBM's Magazine For AIX Professionals, which he founded in 1991. Hodel, who has been with IBM more than 11 years, serves on the Advisory Board for UNIX Expo, is a member of the Society for Technical Communication and the American Society of Business Press Editors, and has a bachelor's in journalism from West Virginia University.



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