IBM launches IBM Institute of Business Value

* Adds a New Dimension to its Services Capabilities in India

New Delhi, March 12, 2008 -- IBM today announced the launch of the IBM India Institute for Business Value (IBV) to address the growing demand for high value services by clients in India, and for those seeking to break into the market. The IBV, which is IBM's "business think tank", will create fact-based, industry and service area-specific thought leadership materials that will enable clients to realize business value. Today's announcement represents another significant investment IBM is making in India.

Working in collaboration with industry experts, leading-edge clients, academia and IBM's own strategy consultants, the Institute provides thought leadership, strategic insights and recommendations that address critical business challenges and help clients visualise and capitalize on new opportunities. IBV's research is used by Top and Senior level executives to help them:

Understand and Anticipate changes in their industries

Prioritize strategic alternatives for Value Creation

Revisit Business models and Value Capturing mechanisms

Determine potential for Innovation and partnership with stakeholders

Drive the reform agenda and formulate road maps for change initiatives

"Our India clients, and those keen to enter or expand into the Indian market, view the rapid expansion of the economy as an opportunity to grow their businesses. But the challenge they will face is a clear understanding and insight into the industry segments in India. With the launch of IBV in India IBM intends to provide local insights and better understanding which will enable clients to have a headstart," said Mr. K.S. Raghunandan, Director - Solutions, IBM India & South Asia.

The IBV India team in India will leverage the global strength of IBV consultants who conduct research and analysis across 17 industries and 5 functional disciplines: Human Capital Management, Financial Management, Strategy and Change, Supply Chain Management and Customer Relationship Management.

The first IBV India study will be on "Healthcare India" study, focusing on required transformation of the Indian Healthcare system to improve accessibility, affordability and sustainability, while delivering enhanced value to all key stakeholders. Additional studies from the retail and energy & utility industries will follow this year.

For more information on the IBM Institute for Business Value, visit www.ibm.com/iibv.  For rmore information on IBM, visit www.ibm.com.