[See " IBM offers portal software for small businesses ," Oct. 3, and " IBM targets B-to-B systems integration software ," Aug. 19 Network World.] The WebSphere Express products allow users with minimal technical knowledge to create interactive Web sites where users can share documents, monitor inventory in electronic catalogs or check account or shipping updates, IBM said. WebSphere Express software runs on a variety of platforms, including Linux and Windows, IBM said. To sell its software into the midmarket, IBM came up with the "Express partner pack." Most small and medium-sized companies don't buy direct, so IBM is providing training, porting assistance and marketing support to its channel partners. Additionally, partners receive five free WebSphere Express licenses to help with customer pilots.