Sybase Joins Forces With Redflag To Boost Linux Development In China

Published 2nd May 2006

HONG KONG – 2 May 2006
Sybase, Inc. (NYSE: SY), a leading provider of enterprise infrastructure and mobile software, has joined forces with Beijing's Redflag Software Co., Ltd (Redflag) in a move aimed at helping Chinese software developers and businesses unlock the full potential of Linux.

The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding that will see both sides committing resources and technology to support key Linux enablers such as product compatibility assurance, integration with local technologies as well as marketing cooperation. The result, hope Redflag and Sybase, will be Linux solutions that offer power, sophistication and seamless compatibility.

"The Linux operating system has grown quickly from a tool favoured by enthusiasts and academics into a viable, powerful and cost-effective platform," said Mark Westover, vice president of Sybase's Global Business Development and Marketing. "Today, Linux enjoys the trust of government institutes and corporate users, many of whom are evaluating Linux as an alternative to existing Unix and Windows based server technologies."

"Our ongoing support of Linux and the signing of this memorandum of understanding will help those companies achieve secure, industrial-strength data management at a low TCO."

Westover is adamant that Sybase' Linux solutions offer performance without compromise, allowing customers to achieve a technology’s full potential without sacrificing anything.

Redflag has pioneered the use of Linux in the PRC since its inception in 2000. Today, Redflag is the largest and fastest growing Linux vendor in China and a leading light in the push towards turning open source software from a niche development into a mainstream trend.

Redflag's Linux line-up includes operating systems and application software suitable for a host of implementations from desktops machines to servers, high-performance computing systems as well as secured operating systems.

According to Zhao Xiao Liang, CEO of Redflag, the Sybase agreement is critical step in helping his company maintain its rapid growth in the China market. "With the help of Sybase, we can provide more advanced technology support, to further boost our system performance and service capability. This agreement will allow us to offer excellent Linux solutions as well as a better service for our customers."