#United States #AI Solutions #Armonk #Cloud Transformation #IBM Microsoft Practice

Introduction to the New Microsoft Practice

On April 29, 2025, IBM officially announced the formation of a dedicated Microsoft Practice within IBM Consulting. This move follows a multi-year collaboration between the two tech giants and is designed to drive impactful business transformations, especially in the realms of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and security.

Purpose and Integration

The new practice outlines a strategy focused on what businesses need as they embark on digital transformation journeys. By combining IBM’s extensive industry knowledge and transformation strategies with Microsoft’s innovative technology solutions, including tools like Copilot, Azure OpenAI, and Azure Cloud, the partnership aims to simplify the process for business leaders.

IBM’s Senior Vice President of Consulting, Mohamad Ali, emphasized the commitment of IBM Consulting to their clients' success. He expressed excitement about the opportunities that will arise from the collaboration, stating, "Establishing a dedicated Microsoft Practice is needed to drive meaningful business outcomes for our clients and I look forward to what we will achieve together."

Strength in Numbers

A key aspect of this initiative is the unification of a team comprising over 33,000 Microsoft-certified professionals from various markets and regions. This team is strategically positioned to deliver solutions that include:

• - Innovative approaches driven by comprehensive expertise across cloud, AI, data, and security.
• - Scalable global implementation capabilities across important markets, including the recently established IBM and Microsoft Experience Zones.
• - A full spectrum of transformation capabilities, ensuring that results are achieved from initial strategy formulation through to implementation and ongoing optimization.
• - Robust security and compliance measures, supported by the combined rigor of both IBM and Microsoft’s extensive industry experience.

Enhancing IBM Consulting Advantage

The new Microsoft Practice will also integrate Microsoft’s technology ecosystem within IBM Consulting’s AI-powered delivery platform, known as IBM Consulting Advantage. This integration will incorporate advanced Copilot features, ensuring that clients have the flexibility to adopt AI solutions tailored to their specific needs while adhering to enterprise governance and security protocols.

Nicole Dezen, Microsoft’s Chief Partner Officer, highlighted this collaboration as a significant step towards achieving their shared goal of empowering customers using cloud and AI technologies. She stated, "This collaboration unites experts to deliver tailored solutions that will drive innovation and operational excellence, helping businesses unlock new growth opportunities and transform operations."

Focus on Client Success

The new practice is set to create innovative, industry-tailored solutions that address the unique challenges faced by various sectors, including retail, government, financial services, and supply chain management. Recent offerings like IBM Copilot Runway and IBM Consulting Azure OpenAI Services are examples of how the partnership has already begun to facilitate the adoption of generative AI by clients, enhancing their operational efficiency and spurring industry-specific innovation.

For instance, Frank Sweeney, Chief Information Officer of the State of Arizona Department of Child Safety, remarked on the positive impact of IBM Consulting on their digital transformation strategy. The implementation of Microsoft generative AI solutions has significantly increased the efficiency of caseworkers, allowing them to concentrate on their primary mission—providing support to families.

Global Impact and Implementation

To date, IBM has successfully conducted over 14,000 Microsoft-oriented projects for clients worldwide. Additionally, more than 30 IBM Software offerings operate on the Microsoft Azure platform, allowing for seamless integration and tailored automation and AI solutions.

Conclusion

In summary, IBM’s establishment of a Microsoft Practice signals a pivotal development in their ongoing commitment to take full advantage of collaboration in technology to deliver significant results for clients. This partnership not only emphasizes the importance of innovative technology in today’s business landscape but also shows how combining expertise can enable organizations to achieve remarkable transformation ideals efficiently and securely. To explore more about IBM and Microsoft’s collaborative efforts, visit [IBM's website].

About IBM

IBM stands as a leader in hybrid cloud and AI solutions, providing consulting services to clients across more than 175 countries. The organization focuses on enabling entities, including government and corporate sectors, to leverage data insights to enhance operational performance and sustain a competitive edge. With innovations in areas such as quantum computing, AI, and tailored cloud solutions, IBM remains committed to fostering a trustworthy and responsible digital journey for its clients.