ManageSoft joins Alliance programme

ManageSoft, the provider of software asset management and licence compliance solutions, is now a member of the Microsoft System Centre Alliance Programme, reports msnbc.

ManageSoft's Enterprise Compliance Manager (ECM) software includes out-of-the-box integration with Microsoft Systems Management Server 2003 and System Centre Configuration Manager 2007.

ECM extends the value of the Microsoft System Centre infrastructure in three ways. Firstly, by transforming Configuration Manager asset evidence into a list of proper application titles, whereby customers gain an immediate understanding of what software is installed in their enterprise. Secondly, by import purchasing order data, including SKU numbers, to reconcile software purchases versus what has been installed throughout the enterprise. Thirdly, by applying product usage rights to generate a licence entitlement position that enables licence and maintenance optimisation resulting in lower IT expense.

The National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (NRTC) will hold rates for its Expanded Basic programming package for Internet protocol television (IPTV) at 2008 levels, according to Satellite Today.

"NRTC strongly believes in the market opportunity for IPTV in rural America and its long-term viability. In tough economic times, we want to help rural telcos keep programming rates steady for consumers," says NRTC CEO Bob Phillips.

NRTC provides full contract management services and support to its members and as new services become available, members can sign up easily using NRTC's password-protected online contract management system. It provides real-time access to contracts and allows members to monitor the progress of contracts approvals.

MaintenanceNet, the provider of extended warranty and maintenance contract management services, has hired Fritz Hesse as vice-president of operations, according to Trading Markets.

Hesse has spent many years in the technology industry with experience both as an entrepreneur and on high-level executive level. Most recently, he served as vice-president of engineering for Intuit's consumer tax group, where he led software engineering teams in the development and maintenance of shared technologies supporting TurboTax and other products. Prior to that, Hesse was CEO and president of Focus Now Solutions, a software solutions and consulting company that he co-founded in 2004.

"MaintenanceNet will draw upon Fritz's wealth of experience as we transition into the next phase of our growth," said Scott Herron, CEO of MaintenanceNet. "With our expansion into the European market, and business on the rise with global manufacturers, we need a leader with his operational expertise to guide us through the many challenges that come with worldwide growth and success."