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The
tools are aimed at helping IBM stake out more of a claim to an
area key to its growth: the network of computers known as the
cloud, where its customers are increasingly stashing more of
their data and computing work.
In doing so, they often sidestep more expensive IBM technology,
meaning IBM needs to bolster its own cloud offerings to compete.
The new tools help developers work faster, build more functions
into existing software applications and create predictive
analytics apps. They form part of IBM's Bluemix service,
designed for building Web and mobile apps.
Internet-based companies like accommodation service Airbnb and
ride-service Uber have relied heavily on cloud-based software
development. As well as attracting developers who work on
projects for newer companies, IBM hopes to attract more
established companies with which it has long-term relationships.
"IBM has a tremendous asset," Derek Schoettle, general manager
for IBM's analytics platform and cloud data services, said of
its customer base. "Helping them taking advantage of
cutting-edge data services is a built-in advantage."
The offerings compete against toolkits offered by Microsoft and
others, he said, but offer more management.
Once built on IBM's platform, the apps will be compatible with
services offered by many cloud providers.
Over 100,000 apps a month are launched using Bluemix, IBM said.
When IBM reported its financial results last month, it said that
while revenue fell overall to $81.7 billion for the year, cloud
revenue grew 43 percent to $10 billion.
(Reporting by Sarah McBride; Editing by Peter Cooney)
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