RIM targets SMEs with latest BlackBerry Server launch

Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM; TSX: RIM) says VARs and network carriers can cash in on today’s launch of its BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) Express, despite its availability as a free download.
RIM is targeting SMEs with the slimmed down version of its flagship BlackBerry Enterprise Server 5.0, offering small businesses the ability to centrally manage and roll out business applications, remotely wipe a lost or stolen device and access files stored on the company network.
“The BlackBerry Enterprise Server Express means businesses of all sizes can take advantage of the BlackBerry platform, empowering employees to work on the move,” Jacqueline Cooper, global VP of channel at RIM told Channel Pro.
“Partners can download it, and offer all the services wrapped around it, like adding a firewall, a data plan – it opens up a whole space for them in mobility,” says Cooper, who adds that IT resellers and carriers can wrap technical services and support, handsets, applications and accessories around the new server.
Blackberry says having enterprise-grade features such as email management and security will prove tempting to SMEs. Previewed at the Mobile World Congress a couple of weeks ago, BES Express has 35 IT controls and policies in place – in compassion with 450 in the full Enterprise version – and is available to any firm using Microsoft Exchange or Small Business Server.