Bangalore: Infosys Technologies Ltd and Microsoft Corp today (Nov 15, 2004) announced a new information technology (IT) transformation initiative they said is designed to help clients improve business performance and build competitive advantage.

Bangalore-based Infosys and Microsoft have provided an initial investment of $ 8 million together to deliver a portfolio of solutions and services that enable clients to "realise a simplified, flexible IT environment that lowers the cost of ownership and accommodate rapid change and innovation," an Infosys statement said.

The industry-specific and cross-industry solutions combine Infosys' consulting, research, intellectual property and project methods with the latest Microsoft .NET software, the statement said.

"Using Infosys' modular global sourcing model, which allows for a targeted, evolutionary approach to sourcing IT, clients can deploy these Microsoft-based solutions in a rapid, strategic, and highly cost-effective manner and use the cost advantage to fund new IT projects and increase business advantages," it was stated.

The CEOs of Infosys and Microsoft Nandan M Nilekani and Steve Ballmer met at the Infosys headquarters in Bangalore today.

Ballmer said Microsoft and Infosys share a commitment to helping customers use technology to improve every area of their business, from process excellence to connecting with customers to responding effectively to the competitive landscape.

Ballmer added, "Microsoft's long-term focus on delivering an integrated, manageable and reliable platform, combined with Infosys' unique delivery model and deep consulting skills, is designed to help customers succeed and grow through increased efficiency, cost savings and business value."

Nilekani said innovations in technology by Microsoft inspire the solutions Infosys creates.

"Using Microsoft technologies we can deliver what clients want most - competitive advantage. Our two companies agree that by bringing together complementary assets and skills our clients will benefit from a unique experience of the combined expertise. Our solutions transform IT environments for our clients; improving quality and productivity and ultimately strategic flexibility of their business," he said.