IBM wants its mainframe servers to be more than just high-end hardware.

With that in mind, <A HREF="http://www.eweek.com/article2/0,1895,2149518,00.asp?kc=EWKNLNAV062207STR3">IBM launched its Destination z program</A> June 21, which looks to give the company's mainframe customers, ISVs and partners a new Web portal to discuss and debate different aspects of mainframe technology.

Unlike its Blade.org initiative, which involves more of a technical discussion, Destination z will allow mainframe customers to exchange ideas as well as look for partners with mainframe skills, said Jim Stallings, general manager of IBM's System z.