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IBM Rational Software Design Partner & Beta Programs
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IBM software early programs


What are Rational Software Design Partner & Beta Programs?

The IBM® Rational® Customer Programs organization is dedicated to working with customers to achieve higher levels of quality in Rational Software products, ensuring their suitability in the marketplace, and raising the level of satisfaction of all customers. One way we do this is by involving customers in the product design and development process. Rational sponsors a number of early development and beta programs to help accomplish this goal. The information below is intended to educate you about these programs and encourage participation from Rational's valued customers.

Design Partner

The Design Partner Program was created to engage a small set of customers in a long-term relationship spanning multiple releases and focused on partnering with Rational in the design and development of its products. The bulk of the Design Partner Program is geared toward consultative activities, but the Design Partners are also given the opportunity to participate in corresponding beta programs in which they test and provide feedback on early code. Design Partners are regarded by all Rational organizations as the customer "Go To" group for direct feedback and consultation on any area of the product including, but not limited to, the user interface, Help documentation, installation walkthroughs, product testing methodologies, educational materials, product direction, market strategy, etc. These requests and activities may occur at any time during the program, even before code has started being written. Design Partners receive an unparalleled level of service, support, and attention directly from the development organization as well as numerous other groups. Our common goal is making Rational products better and customers successful in their early usage of the software and in their long term deployments.

Managed Beta

Managed Beta programs invite a select group of customers to provide feedback directly to the development team by installing and testing early code. Program participants typically receive code during the construction phase which allows for feedback to Development before product content has been finalized. Managed Beta customers are entitled to direct support from a dedicated team that provides assistance with installation and configuration. Most programs involve status meetings, training sessions and product demos.

Closed Beta

Closed Beta programs offer the opportunity for small groups of customers to evaluate early code and provide feedback to the development team, without technical support or customer meetings. Closed Betas are meant to demonstrate and validate new functionality for interested business partners and customers.

Open Beta

Open Beta programs provide early access to code that is more mature than code available through Managed Beta or Closed Beta programs. These programs are open to everyone. Open Betas allow customers to evaluate new code before it is generally available and these programs help drive excitement about the upcoming release.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more information about the Design Partner, Managed Beta, Closed Beta, or Open Beta programs, we encourage you to contact the Rational Customer Advocacy team at ratlbeta@us.ibm.com. You may also contact your Rational account representative at http://www.ibm.com/planetwide/, who will be able to connect you with the Customer Programs team.

CD Publication Date: January 2009
© Copyright IBM Corporation 
2009