Ingram Micro has refreshed its AI Center of Excellence (COE) in Singapore with infrastructure from NetApp and Cisco, providing enterprises and independent software vendors (ISVs) with a controlled environment to test AI applications before deployment. Combining computing, storage, networking and software infrastructure, the facility allows developers to validate applications using real-world data, workflows and customer scenarios. Through the refreshed centre, Ingram Micro aims to help software vendors prepare their applications for commercial use while enabling enterprises to assess potential AI investments before implementation.
NetApp and Cisco infrastructure supports application testing
The centre uses the NetApp Platform, supported by all-flash storage systems running NetApp ONTAP for data management, alongside Cisco’s AI-Ready Data Center with Full-Stack Security and Observability, an infrastructure blueprint designed to support AI workloads. Together, these technologies provide an integrated testing environment where ISVs can test, validate and optimise their applications against operational requirements. Enterprises can use the same facility to evaluate AI solutions before introducing them into their operations, with the aim of reducing deployment risks and supporting more informed investment decisions.
Eunice Lau, Executive Managing Director, Ingram Micro Asia Pte Ltd, described the refreshed COE as a major strategic investment involving the expertise of Ingram Micro, NetApp and Cisco. She said the company aims to help organisations progress from AI pilot projects to production deployments.
Kenneth Poh, Country Manager for NetApp Singapore and Philippines, emphasised the importance of data infrastructure in supporting AI applications across different computing environments. “To realise Singapore’s AI ambitions, enterprises need more than the latest models and compute power. They also must have robust data foundations that are secure, scalable, and operate seamlessly across on-premises and cloud. We are excited to be contributing to the Ingram Micro vision and remain committed to strengthening Singapore’s AI ecosystem by helping customers build the intelligent data infrastructure that underpins digital transformation and AI innovation,” Poh said.
The COE also showcases applications involving unstructured data, including the analysis of road-traffic video feeds. Ingram Micro cited the example of AI models identifying congestion patterns, estimating vehicle volumes along transport routes such as the Johor-Singapore Causeway and predicting potential delays, noting that such information could help support road-traffic management decisions.
Xvantage provides access to validated AI solutions and flexible infrastructure purchasing
Following validation, ISVs can list their AI applications on Ingram Micro Xvantage, the company’s digital platform for discovering, comparing and procuring technology solutions. This gives developers a way to reach channel partners and customers, supporting their efforts to bring tested applications to market.
Ingram Micro will also offer NetApp Keystone through Xvantage for the first time, introducing a flexible infrastructure consumption option as an alternative to traditional procurement models. Keystone operates on a pay-as-you-grow model that allows organisations to scale infrastructure consumption according to their business requirements. Ingram Micro presents the approach as a way to manage capital expenditure and cost pressures while adjusting infrastructure capacity as demand changes.
Dedicated AI Services team supports adoption planning
Ingram Micro has also established a dedicated AI Services team to help enterprises and channel partners assess their readiness to adopt AI. The team will evaluate customers’ existing AI maturity, identify potential applications and develop road maps to guide implementation. In addition, its responsibilities include training, advisory services and support to help organisations develop the technical skills and capabilities needed for AI adoption.
