IBM continues to roll out packaged services it says will make it easier for companies to deploy the latest technologies, including grid computing and Linux.

On Wednesday, IBM introduced its Implementation Services for Linux and Grid and Grow Express Implementation Service, both of which expand on existing IBM offerings by building on lessons learned from individual projects to create a standard way to deploy computing grids and Linux. The services use an automated, Web-based tool to streamline projects, cutting costs and improving efficiencies, IBM says.

"The new service products represent the latest step in IBM's strategy to deliver traditional, labor-based technology services in a manner more similar to the delivery of technology products," IBM said in a statement.

Implementation Services for Linux provides a quick, standardized implementation of Novell SUSE Linux or Red Hat Enterprise Linux on IBM systems x, p, i and z, and BladeCenter servers. The services include a consolidation offering to help customers deploy Linux and consolidate servers for more efficient use of hardware resources, and a high-performance, computing-focused service to simplify the deployment of Linux clusters on the System x and BladeCenter platforms.

IBM says the services, anchored by the Web-based tool, can reduce Linux implementation times by nearly a third.

"The tool incorporates industry-application intelligence and best-practice knowledge from thousands of client engagements to ensure consistent implementation around the world," IBM said.

For grid deployments, IBM is adding the Web-based tool to simplify further the Grid and Grow Express package it introduced last spring.

"The service product includes hardware, software and services, and can be incorporated into current storage and server infrastructure," IBM said.