3 New Groups Created by AST Research Inc.

AST Research Inc. said Monday that it will decentralize its sales and marketing efforts to users of IBM computers by creating three new groups that will address specific market segments.

AST’s newly formed Personal Work Station Enhancements group will oversee sales of enhancement boards for IBM personal computers. The Communications group will oversee marketing of equipment designed to link individual computers. And the Advanced Technology group will work on development of new systems and products.

In a related move Monday, Irvine-based AST said that Thomas Stickel, senior vice president in charge of sales, will leave AST next month to resume management of his consulting firm. Stickel, who in November was named to the post he now vacates, will work as a consultant to the company, a spokesman said.