Creators, partners and clients putting technology to work in the real world
What IBM does
Smarter businesses don’t run on disconnected tools—they run on integrated intelligence. IBM builds platforms that embed AI into core systems and workflows, improve the economics of real work and scale securely across hybrid cloud environments. We apply these capabilities inside IBM first through our Client Zero approach, then deliver them to clients, ensuring what we offer is not just designed, but proven.
Fast facts
employees across 170+ countries
businesses in our Partner Plus program
products tailored to meet your every need
years of delivering breakthrough research
Technology and services
Turn complexity into advantage with software that is hybrid, open and responsible by design—built to make your systems work together, not just side by side.
Modernize applications, servers and storage in place, at your own pace, to integrate with hybrid cloud and AI.
Work with IBM experts to drive high-impact outcomes using advanced AI and a science-based approach to tackle your most critical challenges.
Discover the power of IBM partnerships that combine expertise, resources and technologies to help you accelerate growth.
Simplify complexity, reduce costs and unleash innovation with Red Hat on IBM Cloud.
Origin story
For over a century, IBM has 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.
Learn more about our rich history
- 1880-1929
- 1930-1949
- 1950-1979
- 1980-1999
- 2000-2023
- 2024-present
Industrial Revolution to early 20th century
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.
Rise of computing and world conflict
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.
Space Age and Mainframe Revolution
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.
PC Revolution and digital transformation
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.
Global connectivity and AI
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.
Future of technology and sustainability
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
The future of smarter business
- Hybrid cloud + AI
- Enterprise AI in action
- Client Zero advantage
- Quantum and what’s next
Smarter businesses will be defined by intelligence embedded where work happens. IBM is advancing AI across hybrid cloud environments to bring intelligence directly into core systems and processes—turning enterprise complexity into clarity, adaptability and smarter decisions at scale.
As AI matures, value—not experimentation—matters most. IBM delivers enterprise AI that produces real economic impact by embedding intelligence into workflows and operations. Building on proven results, we help organizations boost productivity, efficiency and competitive advantage at scale.
Smarter business is something we practice first. Through our Client Zero approach, IBM applies AI, automation and hybrid cloud across our own operations before scaling them to clients—ensuring our platforms evolve through real‑world use and proven performance.
The future of smarter business depends on platforms built to endure. Alongside hybrid cloud and AI, IBM is engineering quantum computing from foundational science into enterprise reality—laying the groundwork for breakthroughs that integrate seamlessly with today’s systems.
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