In an effort to increase the proportion of PS/2s that go through third parties in the US, IBM yesterday expanded service support to its so-called Business Partners and their PS/2 and IBM Personal Computer customers. New services include technical support and increased parts availability. A new Entry Systems Service Amendment enables resellers to combine their own services with IBM service, and will be able to mention the facility during joint customer calls with IBM; they can also market IBM maintenance and offer the Extended Maintenance Option to customers.
The Option provides for reduced maintenance charges through prepayment of the IBM Maintenance Agreement for a fixed term. There is no charge to Business Partners for technical support provided by IBM personnel, and they can return some new, unused parts to IBM for credit, and buy some parts cheaper via an enhanced exchange programme.
