IBM, International Business Machines Corporation, is renowned for its long history of invention. From the punched card to the hard disk drive, this multinational corporation is one of the most recognizable names in technology.
In the early 20th century, IBM became a renowned manufacturer of office-calculating machines. These were employed by businesses, universities, laboratories and government offices alike.
Founded in 1911
Established in 1911, International Business Machines (IBM) is a globally renowned leader in technology and its application into products for both consumer and business markets. The company stands out with its hardware, software, cloud-based services and cognitive computing capabilities.
Established as the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company by financier Charles Ranlett Flint in Endicott, New York in 1911, IBM was formed when he purchased Herman Hollerith’s punch card tabulating machine company and combined it with International Time Recording Company and Computing Scale Company of America.
C-T-R was a manufacturer of industrial time recorders, commercial scales, tabulators and punched cards. In 1924 the company changed its name to International Business Machines Corporation.
At first, the company focused on industrial time recorders, scales and tabulators but quickly ventured into electronic computing. By 1950s, they had released the 701 which quickly became a standard product within mainframe and minicomputer markets.
IBM was quick to embrace technological advances of the time and began exploring programming languages, eventually creating FORTRAN – one of the earliest computer languages. These developments laid the foundations for what would become today’s multi-billion dollar software industry.
In the 1960s, IBM provided NASA with orbit tracking for Mercury astronauts. It also designed and manufactured Saturn V’s Instrument Unit as well as Apollo spacecraft guidance computers.
Though the company suffered heavy losses during the 1980s, it has since recovered by focusing on software and services while shifting its hardware focus towards a hybrid approach. Its current product portfolio consists of hardware, servers, storage solutions, AI technologies and cloud software applications.
IBM has been a major success, continuing to expand its market share as technology progresses. Recently, however, a shift in the market has caused IBM to refocus its offerings.
Through its history, IBM has demonstrated remarkable innovation and growth despite facing difficult financial situations. For instance, during the Great Depression it won a social security act contract in 1935 that enabled it to monitor 26 million people – leading to long-term contracts which ensured IBM remained profitable for decades into the future.
Leader in Technology Sector
IBM has long been a leader in the technology sector and an exemplary corporate citizen when it comes to social responsibility. For instance, they were the leading supplier of computers to schools since 1980 and have donated more than $1 billion towards scientific research projects.
For decades, IBM’s comprehensive data processing services have been a cornerstone of the IT industry. Over the last decade alone, the company has added cloud computing, AI and blockchain to its suite of offerings; additionally taking an active role in cybersecurity. Furthermore, its flagship product – the Power9 processor – proved enormously popular.
Discover the company’s roots at its Endicott, New York, headquarters. Here, the world’s first modern factory complex was constructed in the 1920s and still stands today. The buildings were designed in a bold federal revival style with red brick and neo-Egyptian columns. Thomas Watson spearheaded this innovation which would go on to shape much of modern tech today.
IBM is a trusted name in the cloud and machine learning space. Their offerings span from cloud, AI and blockchain services to cybersecurity research and development as well as software designed to protect your company’s data. IBM truly knows what they’re doing – you can trust their expertise!
IBM Founded in Armonk
International Business Machines (IBM) was established in 1911 in Armonk, New York as a global computer technology and IT consulting firm. Known for its many innovations within this field, IBM is today one of the world’s largest corporations.
The original IBM was formed through the merger of three pioneering businesses that automated recording and tabulating data processing. These firms included International Time Recording Company, Computing Scale Co., and Tabulating Machine Company of America.
CTR became the first company to manufacture punched card-based data tabulating machines and scales as a result of their merger, quickly surpassing all other competitors in sales volume.
In 1914, Charles Ranlett Flint, CEO of CTR, appointed Thomas J. Watson Sr. as its general manager and president.
By 1920, the company had achieved a revenue of $9 million and was expanding globally. It also introduced electric typewriters and other office machines that quickly gained traction among consumers.
After becoming the company’s president, Watson was credited with cultivating an environment that promoted good organizational skills. Furthermore, he made it a policy that employees should have the freedom to voice any grievances they may have with senior executives.
At this time, the company implemented group life insurance and survivor benefits for workers as well as a paid vacation program – one of the first examples of an organization-wide benefit program.
Another example of company-wide policy was the creation of the Open Door program, which allowed employees to voice complaints about management directly to their superiors. Although this had been an established practice within the organization prior to this period, its formalization occurred at this time.
These policies were not only advantageous to IBM but essential to its overall success and growth potential. Furthermore, they cemented IBM’s reputation as a company with an excellent culture and strong corporate social responsibility.
In addition to its headquarters in Armonk, the company has offices around the world. As a leading global technology provider, it provides an array of IT products and services such as software, hardware and global finance.
IBM Established in Watsonville
In 1911, IBM was established in Watsonville, California – a coastal community with a population of 52,590 residents.
The city is known for its agricultural industry and is also home to Pajaro Valley Unified School District with 18,000 students spanning kindergarten through twelfth grade.
Today, the city is a popular tourist and resident destination. With its diverse culture and stunning landscape, visitors to this picturesque locale are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Additionally, there are plenty of recreational activities like hiking, boating, festivals and sports to enjoy.
Due to its proximity to Monterey Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains, the area is filled with various attractions. For instance, Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is a popular stopover for both residents and tourists alike.
In addition to its natural splendor, the city is known for its exciting culture and friendly residents. With historic buildings and vibrant murals decorating its urban environment, this makes for a wonderful destination to either visit or live in.
The city’s economy is driven by agriculture and food processing. There are numerous farmers markets throughout the area, as well as numerous restaurants and galleries to enjoy.
Another must-see attraction in the city is the Agricultural History Project Center and Museum. This museum showcases agriculture’s legacy in the Central Coast region and provides insight into local culture and heritage.
This museum provides an insightful look into the evolution of farming in Watsonville through artifacts such as antique farm equipment, documents and photographs. Visitors will gain a unique perspective into local agriculture’s past.
Additionally, the museum features a number of displays intended to invigorate visitors. Housed in the former Bockius-Orr House, visitors are welcomed to explore on certain days of the week.
Since 2004, The Agricultural History Project Center and Museum has been celebrating the vibrant history of our region. Additionally, we offer educational programs tailored for groups of all ages.
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- What Is a Corporation?
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