[Nick Danger]

then they might be in trouble competing with IBM which has a huge Linux group now.

It's easy to hide from IBM's Global Services Division. They don't really want to mess with anybody who isn't going to bill at least $250,000 a year in services. Stay out of those places, and they will be your friend. Many, many companies make a nice living from the crumbs that IBM sweeps their way.

[Tumbleweed_Connection]

If you're an IBM competitor the plan is to determine the fine line between IBM and the "terrority" below. Work as close to that line as possible. In your situation those deals are high end and can be discounted without hurting profit margin. In their case it's almost a question of giving the deal away to get it. Ask the buyer why he/she wants to do business with a company which doesn't focus on their market size...? Inquire as to how that might affect service...? If any accounts were ever sold off by IBM how valuable would yours be in comparison to "normal" business? Where might you end up?...