As the war in Iraq intensifies, multinational companies
are keeping a close watch on their IT operations in the Middle East
and are preparing to react quickly if conditions deteriorate. But
none of the companies have recalled any US IT workers from the
region.
American Express has not pulled out any of its 200 IT workers in
the Middle East, including a number of Americans. Amex said it has
been re-evaluating and strengthening its security procedures in the
area as a precaution.
Companies are generally tight-lipped about their contingency
plans in the area for security reasons.
Stephanie Hampton, a spokeswoman for Marriott International,
said the company has six hotels in the Middle East, each with its
own IT systems managers.
"It's business as usual at this point," Hampton said, adding
that the company does have contingency plans in place for
workers.
Diesel engine manufacturer Cummins does not have a large IT
presence in the region, said spokesman Jason Rawlings. But the
company will make relocation available to any expatriate workers
who feel uncomfortable where they are. Most of Cummins' IT
employees in that part of the world are in India and are not
directly affected by the war.
Sun Microsystems has a "very small number" of US IT workers in
the Middle East and has plans in place to maintain its IT systems
in the event of an evacuation.
Joe Stunkard, a spokesman for IBM, said few IBM employees are in
the countries surrounding Iraq and that most of the company's work
in the region is carried out by business partners.
"We're assessing the potential impact on our employees,
customers, facilities and partners, and will take appropriate
actions to protect and maintain our business operations," Stunkard
said. "At this present time, we're not aware of any business
disruptions related to Iraq."