Creators, partners and clients putting technology to work in the real world
What IBM does
The mission of IBM is to be a catalyst that makes the world work better. We aim to have a positive impact globally, and in the communities where we operate, through business ethics, environmental commitment and responsible technology.
Fast facts
employees across 170+ countries
businesses in our Partner Plus program
products tailored to meet your every need
research facilities spread across 12 laboratories on 6 continents
Origin story
For over a century, IBM been at the forefront of technological innovation. Beginning in the earliest days of computing, IBM has blended intelligence, innovation and science to improve business, society and the human experience.
IBM’s roots trace back to Herman Hollerith’s 1896 invention of the tabulating machine, revolutionizing data processing for the 1890 US Census. In 1911, IBM was founded as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company, later renamed IBM in 1924. Key innovations followed, such as the 1928 introduction of the 80-column punched card, which became a global data standard.
IBM introduced the electric accounting machine in 1929. By 1935, it supported Social Security with record-keeping systems. During World War II, IBM aided military operations with punch card technology, and in 1945, it founded the Watson Scientific Computing Lab, marking a significant step toward modern computing.
Launched in 1964, IBM’s System/360 was a pivotal mainframe computer for businesses and governments. In 1969, IBM systems helped NASA achieve the Apollo moon landing. In 1973, the introduction of the UPC barcode revolutionized retail industries by streamlining inventory management.
In 1981, IBM released the IBM PC, revolutionizing personal computing. In 1997, Deep Blue made history by defeating a world chess champion, Garry Kasparov. By the late 1990s, IBM had also developed the world's fastest supercomputer, showcasing its leadership in AI and high-performance computing.
IBM shifted toward cloud computing and AI with Watson's 2011 Jeopardy! win, reshaping business optimization and AI-driven solutions. In 2018, IBM and Airbus launched CIMON, the first AI assistant for the International Space Station, expanding its reach into space technology. IBM remains focused on ethical AI systems today.
IBM continues to push the boundaries of AI, quantum computing and sustainability. As a leader in ethical AI, IBM shapes transparent systems to address global challenges, from healthcare to environmental sustainability. The company also aims to drive innovation through partnerships in space technology, cloud computing and data-driven industries.
IBM’s roots trace back to Herman Hollerith’s 1896 invention of the tabulating machine, revolutionizing data processing for the 1890 US Census. In 1911, IBM was founded as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company, later renamed IBM in 1924. Key innovations followed, such as the 1928 introduction of the 80-column punched card, which became a global data standard.
IBM introduced the electric accounting machine in 1929. By 1935, it supported Social Security with record-keeping systems. During World War II, IBM aided military operations with punch card technology, and in 1945, it founded the Watson Scientific Computing Lab, marking a significant step toward modern computing.
Launched in 1964, IBM’s System/360 was a pivotal mainframe computer for businesses and governments. In 1969, IBM systems helped NASA achieve the Apollo moon landing. In 1973, the introduction of the UPC barcode revolutionized retail industries by streamlining inventory management.
In 1981, IBM released the IBM PC, revolutionizing personal computing. In 1997, Deep Blue made history by defeating a world chess champion, Garry Kasparov. By the late 1990s, IBM had also developed the world's fastest supercomputer, showcasing its leadership in AI and high-performance computing.
IBM shifted toward cloud computing and AI with Watson's 2011 Jeopardy! win, reshaping business optimization and AI-driven solutions. In 2018, IBM and Airbus launched CIMON, the first AI assistant for the International Space Station, expanding its reach into space technology. IBM remains focused on ethical AI systems today.
IBM continues to push the boundaries of AI, quantum computing and sustainability. As a leader in ethical AI, IBM shapes transparent systems to address global challenges, from healthcare to environmental sustainability. The company also aims to drive innovation through partnerships in space technology, cloud computing and data-driven industries.
Global impact
Discover our progress and performace to create a more sustainable, equitable and secure future.
Explore this initiative, which provides IBM technologies and expertise to nonprofits and governments addressing climate change impacts on vulnerable populations.
Our commitment is to provide 30 million people of all ages with new skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow by 2030.
Commitments to the future
IBM is always on the hunt for what’s next. Learn more about the group of more than 3,000 international scientists and researchers who believe in the power of the scientific method to invent at IBM Research, including leading the charge in quantum computing.
IBM’s adaptive AI solutions are designed to solve real business problems. We employ an open, enterprise-grade AI approach that provides more choice, greater flexibility to best fit your business needs.
Personal digital employees, or digeys, are AI-powered workers that can relieve employees of their most repetitive, mundane tasks. We believe intelligent automation solutions will help businesses improve workflows, integrate systems and gain insights into operations.
In 2021, we furthered our tradition of leadership in sustainability, announcing a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 across all the countries in which we operate. Our data-driven sustainability solutions are helping clients turn ambition into action.
IBM is always on the hunt for what’s next. Learn more about the group of more than 3,000 international scientists and researchers who believe in the power of the scientific method to invent at IBM Research, including leading the charge in quantum computing.
IBM’s adaptive AI solutions are designed to solve real business problems. We employ an open, enterprise-grade AI approach that provides more choice, greater flexibility to best fit your business needs.
Personal digital employees, or digeys, are AI-powered workers that can relieve employees of their most repetitive, mundane tasks. We believe intelligent automation solutions will help businesses improve workflows, integrate systems and gain insights into operations.
In 2021, we furthered our tradition of leadership in sustainability, announcing a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 across all the countries in which we operate. Our data-driven sustainability solutions are helping clients turn ambition into action.