Scott Andress - VP, Global Alliances

1. What's your background in the technology sector?

In 2000, I founded Compoze Software which built components to speed up the development of web applications. After forming a strong alliance with BEA Systems, they acquired Compoze and I subsequently ran worldwide business development for one of BEA's brands. So based on my background I have had a unique opportunity to work in both a small and large technology company environment. This has provided me with tremendous perspective when structuring partnerships (both small and large).

2. What do you hope to achieve from leading the new Global Alliances program?

AppLabs is in the development stages of creating a strong global alliance program so there will be an immediate impact when the program starts to be established. The initial target area will include both ISVs and SIs. I'm going to be focusing on presenting the full range of AppLabs’ services across the partnership landscape. There's a real opportunity for us to become a valued partner with ISVs and SIs who don't have a testing practice and for those who have gaps in their testing practices.

3. What are the benefits that the Alliance program will give our clients in solving their business and IT challenges?

In establishing formal alliances with other leading organizations, we are going to give our clients the ability to leverage best of breed offerings in every area of the application lifecycle. For example, a client may need help in several areas and as such might approach an SI that may offer excellent architecting and development services but may not have expertise in testing. Under this scenario AppLabs would work in partnership with the SI to deliver best of breed testing services to the customer, hence reducing business risk and offering them a better option.

4. Are there any significant changes in the testing market, within the next 3-5 years, that will help you structure the Alliances program?

Awareness of software testing is growing and there's a real push in this space as it's an up and coming industry. Over the next few years, organizations will continue to see testing as a distinct portion of the development lifecycle. This awareness will continue to drive validity of the partnership program and it should become easier to forge partnerships as other companies see the value of testing and recognize the value proposition it adds to their story and their customers.