Beyond Big Blue's horizon

Article Abstract:

IBM is by far the largest computer company in the world with international revenues of $62.7 billion. The success of IBM has not been the result of the technical advancement of its products but has been the result of its marketing. IBM's products are not on the cutting edge of technology. Typically, IBM's products adapt to new technology later than leading-edge companies, and are not as technically sound. However, with an 80% effective market share of the international computer market, IBM has the clout to enforce standards for mainframes and PCs. Besides brand loyalty inculcated in many computer users over the years, the reason many firms continue to purchase IBM products is because, although the products are not as timely or as technically sophisticated as their competitors' products, IBM products have become the industry standard.

Computers, peripherals & software, Computer industry, International Business Machines Corp.

---

Getting fit for competition

Article Abstract:

The opening up of local authority information technology (IT) services to competition will necessitate a change in workforce culture. The need for IT departments to operate like a business will require a change in staff attitudes and the development of a customer culture. Although IT department staff may feel that competition poses a threat to their previously secure jobs, rewards can be increased if in-house departments compete successfully for contracts. Service level agreements between supplier and purchaser that define what is to be supplied, when and at what price are essential when operating in an open market.

Information management, County councils, Electronic data processing departments, Data processing departments

---

Blue chip start up: pay as you grow

Article Abstract:

Cable & Wireless has developed its a-Services application service provision to supply all the electronic business services required by small and medium companies, including support services.

Small business, Information services, Cable and Wireless Communications Inc.

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Foreign currency exposure and the hedging possibilities for pension funds. Risk management practices of German firms
• Abstracts: British Biotech fails to redeem itself. Hepatitis C collaboration. Functional foods from biotech: An unappetizing prospect?
• Abstracts: Net commerce comes of age. A new test for media
• Abstracts: A model for estimating industry compliance costs of food labeling regulations. Assessing consumer response to protected geographical identification labeling
• Abstracts: On the valuation of an option to exchange interest rate for another. Valuation of adjustable rate mortgages with automatic stretching maturity

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.