IBM takes next step with cloud computing

IBM and cloud computing

It's well known that the competition is heating up when it comes to cloud computing. As it's previously been written by CXO, it's been tipped on many occasions to be a trend which is most implemented, we previously write about the steps that Amazon is taking to insure they stay the leader in the field, now, IBM has taken further steps to strengthen it's footing on the cloud computing ladder.

IBM has acquired Cast Iron in order to accelerate its cloud services, as it too expects the market to continue to grow and grow.

IBM expects the global market for cloud computing services to be worth US$126 billion by 2012, from US$48 million in 2008, and is bolstering its capability to strengthen its own offering. The company stated in a press release that it had acquired the company to "broaden the delivery of cloud computing for clients."

What is Cast Iron?

Cast Iron Systems, is a privately held company based in Mountain View, CA, which delivers industry-leading cloud integration software, appliances and services.

In today's competitive global business environment, companies are recognising the need to reduce complexity and cost. To do so, many organisations are using a software as a service (SaaS) model through cloud computing. Analysts estimate that by 2013, worldwide SaaS revenue will grow to US$16 billion. The challenge businesses face in reaping the full potential of SaaS is integration - making new cloud-based applications work with the disparate systems running in their data centers. In the past, this involved time-consuming and resource draining coding work, the Cast Iron press release states.

The acquisition expands IBM's industry-leading business process and integration software portfolio, which grew more than 20 percent in the first quarter of 2010. Cast Iron Systems has completed thousands of cloud integrations around the world for financial institutions, media and entertainment companies and retail organizations. The company's clients include Allianz, NEC, Peet's Coffee & Tea, Dow Jones, Schumacher Group, ShoreTel, Sports Authority, Time Warner, Westmont University and many others.

Craig Hayman, general manager, IBM WebSphere, said, "The combination of IBM and Cast Iron Systems will make it easy for clients to integrate business applications, no matter where those applications reside. This will give clients greater agility and as a result, better business outcomes."

Cast Iron uses prebuilt software templates for integration rather than writing custom code. This allows cloud integrations to be carried out in days, as opposed to weeks, whether using physical appliances, virtual appliances or a cloud service, according to IBM.

Looks like there is going to be no clear winner in the cloud computing battle - not just yet anyway!

Jodie Humphries

Jodie Humphries graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA Hons in Creative Writing in 2008. She has worked for GDS Publishing for the digital group since July 2009. She has previous experience with writing for the web, running her own website since April 2007.

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