Chris Talbot

Houston, Tex.-based Compaq Computer Corp. launched the first phase of its strategy to transform Compaq ProLiant server management tools into a comprehensive software-based server management suite in September.

In terms of acceptance in the marketplace, networked storage has come a long way. Companies that at one time only thought of storage as tape back-ups and workstation hard drives are now thinking more strategically and seriously about the deployment of technologies like network attached storage (NAS) and storage area networks (SANs).

Toronto-based Call-Net Enterprises Inc. announced last month it was closing up its Ascenda Inc. ASP subsidiary and focusing on its core business operations.

Companies that at one time only thought of storage as tape back-ups and workstation hard drives are now thinking more strategically and seriously about the deployment of technologies like network attached storage (NAS) and storage area networks (SANs).

The way one analyst tells it, trying to convince companies to implement a strategic plan for their networks is a never-ending battle.

Divergence could mark firms

When Canadian Tire Acceptance Ltd. of Welland, Ont., wanted to improve customer satisfaction on requests to its call centres, it turned to Seattle, Wash.-based WRQ Inc. to solve its problems.

Industry reaction to the proposed merger between Hewlett-Packard Co. and Compaq Computer Corp. has come in, and it is decidedly