International Business Machines Corporation develops enterprise technology across software, consulting, hardware, hybrid cloud, artificial intelligence and quantum computing. News from IBM centers on AI platforms and services, including watsonx, IBM Enterprise Advantage, IBM Consulting Advantage, IBM Sovereign Core, watsonx Orchestrate and Red Hat technologies for hybrid and regulated environments.
Recurring updates also cover IBM Consulting client work, industry and cloud collaborations, research milestones in quantum-centric supercomputing, AI-enabled application experiences, and IBM Institute for Business Value studies on enterprise adoption and governance of AI.
IBM announced an agreement to acquire Bluetab Solutions Group, enhancing its data and hybrid cloud consulting services. This strategic acquisition aims to leverage Bluetab's expertise in data migration to hybrid multi-cloud platforms, which will support IBM’s AI and cloud initiatives. Bluetab, established in 2005, has strong ties with various industries across Spain, Mexico, Peru, and Colombia. Financial specifics weren't disclosed, and the deal is expected to close in Q3 2021, subject to regulatory approval.
On July 8, 2021, IBM (NYSE: IBM) announced its intention to acquire BoxBoat Technologies, a leading DevOps consultancy specializing in Kubernetes and containerization. This acquisition aims to enhance IBM's hybrid cloud strategy and support the global adoption of Red Hat OpenShift. BoxBoat's expertise will help IBM deliver comprehensive container strategies and foster advanced cloud solutions. Founded in 2016, BoxBoat has successfully provided consulting services to numerous Fortune 100 clients. The deal is expected to close within the quarter, subject to customary conditions.
On July 8, 2021, Atos and IBM announced a collaboration to develop a secure digital infrastructure for the Dutch Ministry of Defense. This initiative aims to construct new data centers, safeguard IT systems, and establish a proprietary broadband mobile network, ensuring protection for classified government information. The partnership builds on their strategic alliance formed in January 2021, focusing on digital acceleration and reduced operating costs. IBM and Atos leverage advanced technologies to support the government in modernizing its operations for enhanced security and productivity.
IBM is collaborating with Heifer International to empower smallholder coffee and cocoa farmers in Honduras using technology like IBM Food Trust and Watson Decision Platform for Agriculture. These tools enhance supply chain transparency, allowing farmers to earn more than the 1% they typically get from coffee sales. With Food Trust, farmers can trace products from farm to sale, improving market access and pricing. By leveraging AI and blockchain, this initiative aims to raise farmers' incomes and stabilize the agricultural economy in the region.
Kyndryl, the independent company emerging from IBM's Managed Infrastructure Services, has appointed Matt Milton as President of its U.S. operations. This strategic move aims to enhance decision-making and customer engagement. Milton brings nearly 20 years of experience from IBM, where he held significant roles, including General Manager for Financial Services. Kyndryl plans to streamline its services into six global practices, aligning closely with customer needs. The official separation from IBM is expected by the end of 2021.
Kyndryl, the new independent public company born from IBM's Managed Infrastructure Services, has announced its global leadership model ahead of their spin-off expected by year-end. The company aims to enhance its digital transformation capabilities with a focus on customer-centric operations. Newly appointed leaders across key markets include Tosca Colangeli and Matt Milton. Kyndryl will establish six global managed services practices and an advisory service to support customer integration of advanced technologies.
OneTen, a coalition of CEOs, has launched a new Talent platform aimed at hiring, upskilling, and promoting one million Black individuals without four-year degrees over the next decade. Collaborating with Bain & Company, IBM, and Merck, the platform facilitates career paths and skill development. The platform will be available to member employers in Q4 2021, enhancing accessibility to job opportunities. By employing a skills-first approach, OneTen aims to combat bias in hiring, providing equitable access to careers for Black talent while leveraging advanced AI and blockchain technologies.
Kyndryl, formed from IBM's Managed Infrastructure Services business, has appointed Antoine Shagoury as Chief Technology Officer. The company aims to leverage advanced technology to meet digital demands. Kyndryl is also establishing an advisory practice led by Vic Bhagat to assist clients in modernizing their IT environments. Shagoury brings extensive experience from State Street and the London Stock Exchange, while Bhagat has held senior roles at Verizon and EMC. The separation from IBM is anticipated to complete by the end of 2021.
IBM has launched its Cloud Pak for Network Automation during the Mobile World Congress 2021, aimed at enhancing 5G service delivery for communications service providers (CSPs). This AI-powered software enables quick network management, reducing service deployment times from months to days. According to an IBM study, 82% of CSPs emphasize faster service rollout as crucial for automation success. The offering integrates advanced analytics and machine learning to optimize network performance and includes features for real-time monitoring and automatic resource delivery.
Hapag-Lloyd and Ocean Network Express have successfully integrated with the TradeLens platform, which enhances global logistics data visibility for containerized freight. This partnership joins other major carriers, benefiting clients through improved efficiency and reduced operational costs. The TradeLens ecosystem now includes over 300 organizations, contributing to digitization and faster processes across the shipping industry. TradeLens has processed 42 million container shipments, enhancing transparency and reducing paperwork in global trade.