IBM to offer enterprise services around cloud computing

In recent years, many tech companies have been buzzing about cloud computing and preparing their initial foray into the clouds. IBM has decided to approach the movement from a different angle, by focusing on certification and consulting services. IBM's approach could lead more companies to accept cloud computing and ease some fears around security and reliability. The company plans to help clients assess the total cost of ownership for cloud computing, as well as design and implement cloud operations.

The certification aspect of IBM's new services will allow certain vendors to get the IBM seal of approval--and get the right to use that on their marketing materials, of course. But James Governor, an analyst at Redmonk, told Computerworld.com that IBM may be jumping the gun with it's new business model.

"It's far too early in the curve to really identify what the industry-specific best practices are for cloud computing," he said. "While I understand IBM's desire to drive an industry-vertical go-to-market strategy across its portfolio, cloud computing is still something that's very experimental. It's very hard to nail down the total cost of ownership, the whats and the whys."

Even if the true value of this new service is debatable, one thing is certain: IBM's announcement could have real influence over cloud computing's adoption in the marketplace.

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