IBM wins 1,724 patents for No. 1 spot on '97 list, but fruits of R&D fall 8%

Article Abstract:

IBM led all companies with 1,724 US patents in 1997. The company has captured the category every year since 1992, but the number of its 1997 patents declined 8% from 1996. The 1997 total reversed a growth streak since 1993 and raised questions about possible repercussions from Chmn Louis V. Gerstner's $1 billion cut in research and development in the mid-1990s. Companies usually require 22 months to obtain a patent, so the latest numbers would reflect IBM research conducted after the cuts. IBM, which still invests about $5 billion annually in R&D, said software-related products accounted for nearly a third of its patents, followed by network programming products at 15%. Texas Instruments placed second among computer companies, and 14th overall, with 610 patents in 1997. The US Patent Office issued 112,091 patents while receiving approximately 230,000 patents in 1997.

Computers & Auxiliary Equip, Copyrights, Intellectual property, Growth, Patents, Patent/copyright issue, Company growth, 1997 AD

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For IBM, a groundbreaking sales chief

Article Abstract:

Chmn Louis Gerstner selects 22-year IBM veteran Linda Sanford to serve as chief of the company's sales force. The news was released at the start of Jan 1998. Sanford, who is 44, is the first woman ever chosen for this post. IBM's sales unit handles accounts for its 20,000 top customers and brings in about 70% of the company's $80 billion of annual revenue. Until now, Sanford's work with the company has focused on product development, but she is optimistic, saying her lack of a formal sales background will not be a hindrance. As head of the company's sales force, Sanford's mission, essentially, will involve finding a way to establish and maintain enduring sales growth. Sanford will oversee 17,000 employees.

Computers, Management, Company executive, Computer executives

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