IBM Cloud has introduced a new partner-driven Virtual Learning Platform (VLP) to help clients and partners manage enablement, technical readiness, and product demos—all within a cloud-native environment. In collaboration with Broadcom and Star Systems, the VMware Lab Platform is now available as an add-on to VMware licenses via the IBM Cloud Catalog.

This integration allows users to quickly deploy all resources required to manage a learning platform without the need for separate infrastructure.  Delivered as a managed service by IBM Partner Star Systems, VLP simplifies access to preconfigured VMware labs, enhancing scalability and accelerating time-to-value.

A new Star VLP Cloud Catalog makes it easy for IBM sellers and Partners to incorporate VLP into client engagements, expanding IBM Cloud’s enablement offerings and driving VMware adoption across our client base!.

1. Company Overview

Our Partner’s Unique Value Proposition in the Virtual Learning and IT Training Space
Star Systems, in collaboration with IBM Cloud, delivers a powerful Virtual Learning Platform (VLP) that enables hands-on, cloud-based IT training at scale. Designed for universities, enterprises, and certification providers, Star VLP bridges the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application through immersive lab environments.

About Our Partner: STAR
Star VLP is a SaaS-based virtual learning provider offering a robust, cloud-native platform for delivering interactive IT labs. With support for hybrid cloud deployments, Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) integration, and rich APIs, Star VLP is built to complement existing Learning Management Systems (LMS) and accelerate digital learning transformation.

2. Solution Overview

Embedded Solution: STAR Virtual Learning Platform (VLP)
Star VLP is a cloud-hosted, scalable platform that delivers:

1. On-demand and instructor-led training labs: Learners can access self-paced labs anytime or join live sessions guided by instructors, offering flexibility for both structured and independent learning paths.
2. Sales demos, customer POCs, and MVP environments: Sales and technical teams can quickly spin up demo or proof-of-concept environments to showcase solutions, validate use cases, or test MVPs with clients.
3. Cybersecurity and defense training in isolated labs: Secure, sandboxed environments allow organizations to simulate real-world cyber threats and train teams in incident response without risking production systems.
4. Support for complex vApp configurations and hybrid cloud: The platform supports advanced virtual application setups and hybrid deployments, enabling realistic, enterprise-grade training and testing scenarios.

Quantifiable Results

1. Accelerated sales cycles (1–3 months) through demo-ready environments
2. Increased co-sell and up-sell opportunities with immersive training
3. Average deal size of $100K–$250K
4. Enhanced client engagement with multilingual support and global reach

3. Technology

Core Technologies

1. VMware Lab Platform: Delivers interactive, localized lab environments
2. LTI Integration: Seamlessly connects with existing LMS platforms
3. Hybrid Cloud Architecture: Supports flexible deployment models
4. Rich API Ecosystem: Enables automation and extensibility

Scalability, Security, and Interoperability

1. Localized in 12 languages for global accessibility
2. Isolated environments for secure cybersecurity training
3. Interoperable with IBM Cloud and VMware Cloud Director for seamless scaling

4. Target Industries and Clients

Industries We Focus On

1. Higher Education (Universities, Engineering Colleges)
2. Manufacturing and Automotive
3. Software and Certification Providers
4. Remote Learning and Cybersecurity Training

Ideal Client Profiles

1. Institutions needing scalable, hands-on IT training
2. Enterprises requiring demo/POC environments for sales enablement
3. Organizations delivering global certification programs

Client Success Example

• Tetra Pak: Leveraged STAR VLP for scalable, secure training environments for Product demos, Sales skilling and Sales onboarding.
  Visit Tetra Pak

5. Go-to-Market Strategy and Events Plan

GTM Approach

1. Co-sell with IBM Cloud and Star Systems
2. Enablement for IBM sellers and IBM Resell partners

Upcoming Activities

1. Webinars and live lab events
2. Partner enablement sessions
3. Sales demo and POC support for IBM Cloud clients

Contact for GTM

1. IBM: Satyam Jakkula satyam.jakkula@in.ibm.com | A.J. Chamoy ajchamoy@us.ibm.com
2. Star Systems: Shivakumar Kuppannan shiva@starsystems.in

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