IBM Global Services Receives ’Strong Positive’ Rating in North American Data Center Outsourcing

ARMONK, NY - 15 Sep 2006: IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced that analyst firm, Gartner Inc., rated its Data Center Outsourcing capabilities as a “Strong Positive” service in its July 26, 2006 “MarketScope for Data Center Outsourcing, North America” report.

Gartner defines data center outsourcing as “a multiyear or annuity contract/relationship involving the day-to-day management responsibility for operating server/host platforms, including distributed servers and storage. Services include any combination of, or all of, the product support and professional services as they specifically relate the ongoing management of the computing and storage resources.”

According to report authors, Richard Matlus and William Maurer, a strong positive rating is “a solid provider of strategic products, services or solutions. They recommend existing customers continue investments, while potential customers should consider the vendor a strong strategic choice.” Evaluation criteria included: customer experience, operations (ability to meet goals and commitments, performance measurements and technical support expertise) and product/service capabilities.

“IBM Global Services continues to be the largest provider of data center services in the world. IBM hosts the most data centers in North America and supports more MIPS and servers than any of our top competitors combined,” said Larry Longseth, IBM Vice President, Global Server Systems Operations. “Global Services leverages IBM best-of-breed tools, processes and skills to provide real-value for clients seeking to innovate.”

IBM Data Center Outsourcing Services provides customized outsourcing solutions to help relieve companies from the task of managing computing resources, which allows clients to focus on their core businesses. IBM uses proven technology to deliver fast, reliable, security-rich network services to their clients.

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About Gartner MarketScope

© 2006 Gartner, Inc. and/or its Affiliates. Gartner’s MarketScope provides specific guidance for users who are deploying, or have deployed, products or services. A Gartner MarketScope rating does not imply that the vendor meets all, few or none of the evaluation criteria. The Gartner MarketScope evaluation is based on a weighted evaluation of a vendor’s products in comparison with the evaluation criteria. Consider Gartner’s criteria as they apply to your specific requirements. Contact Gartner to discuss how this evaluation may affect your specific needs.

The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Gartner disclaims all warranties as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of such information. Although Gartner’s research may discuss legal issues related to the information technology business, Gartner does not provide legal advice or services and its research should not be construed or used as such. Gartner shall have no liability for errors, omissions or inadequacies in the information contained herein or for interpretations thereof. The opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice.

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Jenna Gable

IBM Media Relations

IBM

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