HCLTech, NetApp expand partnership to deliver hybrid cloud storage-as-a-service for enterprise AI

HCLTech and NetApp have bolstered their partnership to deliver hybrid cloud storage-as-a-service (STaaS) solutions aimed at accelerating enterprise AI adoption. The joint offering combines HCLTech's Utility for Everything (U4X) digital infrastructure framework with NetApp's pay-as-you-go storage services. This architecture enables organizations to align data storage requirements with shifting operational demands while leveraging HCLTech's AI Factory offerings to manage the development, deployment, and operation of generative AI applications.

Rampal Singh, Senior Vice President of the Hybrid Cloud Business Unit at HCLTech, emphasized that the initiative focuses on helping enterprises scale AI in a pragmatic and efficient manner. By integrating flexible infrastructure models with robust data management capabilities, the partnership empowers clients to unlock the value of their data and expedite their AI journeys.

Alvaro Celis, Chief Partner and Ecosystem Officer at NetApp, highlighted the collaborative nature of the expanded partnership. Celis stated, "We believe strong partnerships are built by co-creating technology offerings, business models, solutions, and services that deliver meaningful customer value." This collaboration provides customers with access to NetApp's intelligent data infrastructure through a flexible, accessible business model, complemented by HCLTech's practical expertise.

The expanded partnership incorporates deployment frameworks previously utilized in various commercial sectors. For instance, a global food and beverage enterprise utilized the consumption model to decrease upfront infrastructure investments, while a European telecommunications firm deployed the systems across distributed environments to comply with regional regulatory mandates.