IBM: Technology group with global influence

IBM is one of the most influential companies in the history of international IT. Hardly any other technology group has influenced the development of information and communication technologies over so many decades. From early computing and tabulating systems to cloud architectures, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing, IBM has repeatedly created new technological foundations on which entire industries are built. Today, the company sees itself less as a traditional hardware provider and more as a strategic technology and consulting partner for companies, institutions, and public sector clients worldwide.

IBM
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From industrial company to digital solutions provider

IBM was founded in the USA in 1911. In its early years, the company focused on mechanical calculators, tabulating and punch card systems, which were mainly used in administration, statistics and industry. With its renaming as International Business Machines in 1924, the company began its international expansion. Throughout the 20th century, IBM had a decisive influence on the development of modern computer technology. Mainframe computers, operating systems, and later personal computers made the company a key player in the digital transformation. Even though IBM has deliberately divested itself of parts of its traditional hardware business in recent decades, its technological depth has remained intact. Research, software development, and system architectures now form the backbone of the group.

Focus areas: Cloud, AI, and enterprise software

IBM's current focus is on software-based platforms, hybrid cloud solutions, and data-driven applications. Companies with complex IT structures in particular use IBM technologies to connect existing systems with modern cloud and AI approaches. Instead of purely standardized solutions, IBM relies on scalable architectures that can be adapted to individual requirements. The core service portfolio includes:

  • Hybrid cloud and multi-cloud platforms for businesses
  • Artificial intelligence and data-based analysis tools
  • IT security solutions for critical infrastructures
  • Enterprise software for automation and process management
  • Consulting services for digital transformation and IT strategy
For years, the Watson AI platform, which is used in areas such as healthcare, industry, finance, and customer service, has been receiving special attention. At the same time, IBM is pushing ahead with the development of quantum computers to solve computing problems in the future that are virtually impossible to tackle with conventional IT.

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Consulting expertise and industry focus

A key distinguishing feature of IBM is the close integration of technology and consulting. With a strong consulting division, the company not only supports customers in selecting software or infrastructure, but also in the strategic realignment of entire business models. Industry knowledge from areas such as manufacturing, energy, healthcare, financial services, and public administration is incorporated into the projects. IBM thus positions itself less as a pure product provider and more as a long-term partner for complex transformation projects. This experience plays a central role, especially in large organizations with historically grown IT landscapes.

Sustainability, research, and long-term perspective

IBM has been investing continuously in research and development for decades. The company's own research laboratories are among the most productive in the world and have produced numerous technological breakthroughs. At the same time, IBM pursues ambitious sustainability goals, for example through energy-efficient data centers, optimized software architectures, and data-based solutions for reducing emissions in industry and logistics. With this combination of technological depth, consulting expertise, and global presence, IBM remains a key player in the digital economy. The company exemplifies the shift from traditional industrial IT to networked, intelligent, and sustainable technology systems.

Link to the company website: www.ibm.com