Ibm Mobile Foundation

Summary

IBM has just completed its 2012 IMPACT Conference which hosts technology and business leaders from around the world not only for a learning experience but also to incorporate technology into a competitive advantage. The focus for the 2012 conference was on mobile enterprise and cloud computing. IBM launched the Mobile Foundation which is "a comprehensive portfolio of software and services designed to help organizations capitalize on the proliferation of mobile environments, including laptops, smartphones and tablets." With this release it supports IBM's strategy "to provide clients with a mobile platform that spans application development, integration, security and management." Part of the ability to do this is by integrating with the back end systems and utilizing the cloud computing services. A secure two way relationship is established. The current estimates for IBM's Mobile Foundation target market is $22 billion and expected to grow to $36 billion by 2015. IBM has been investing in the mobile space for over a decade and will continue to bring that technology to meet the needs of its clients.

Analysis

IDC analysts estimate that by 2015 the mobile work force will represent over 37% of the total workforce. This will be around 1.3 billion people. Also, the report states that the majority of the mobile workers will be in the Asia-Pacific regions due to the strong economic growth. Less growth will be seen in the Americas due to a slower economy and high rates of unemployment. But with that said the Americas will see the mobile worker grow from 182.5 million in 2010 to 212.1 million in 2015 according to the IDC analysts. The potential business impact is great due to the fact that more companies are more accepting of providing the flexible workforce for their employees. Recent studies have shown a 20% improvement in employee productivity due to a flexible workplace. IBM Mobile Foundation will help greatly reduce "the costs of doing business by decreasing dependence on email, improving social collaboration and adopting cloud technologies to reach mobile workers." The significance is that companies will provide the proper tools to their employees as well as strengthen their business presence to grow and maintain a leaner operating cost. This will translate to a more competitive company and more efficiency. More people are utilizing their mobile devices than traditional laptop or desktop. The mobile device has become the most powerful tool socially and for work life. IBM is providing the platform for their clients to grow their business.

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