IBM, Box launch cloud partnership

Armonk, N.Y. – IBM and Box are launching a global, cloud-based partnership that will integrate their existing products and services and develop new solutions targeted across industries including retail. The strategic alliance brings together Box’s cloud content collaboration platform with IBM Analytics and social solutions, IBM security technologies and the global IBM cloud.



The two companies will jointly deliver the solutions to market internationally, and IBM will also enable builders and developers to integrate Box APIs into enterprise apps and web services. The partnership will encompass the integration of IBM content management and Watson analytics into Box, as well as the integration of Box capabilities into IBM’s Verse business email solution and Connections social collaboration platform.



In addition, Box will enable joint customers to store their content on the IBM cloud and add IBM security technologies to its enterprise security offerings. The two companies will jointly develop content management solutions and incorporate Box technology into select IBM MobileFirst for iOS apps. IBM will also enable enterprise developers to integrate Box APIs on the IBM Bluemix developer cloud, and IBM Global Business Services consulting will be available to help IBM clients connect or integrate Box capabilities with existing data and systems.



The partnership will specifically target omnichannel retail, among other industries. For example, a fashion retailer will be able to deliver a consistent brand experience that extends to all physical and e-commerce stores by sharing advertising images, promotional materials and product lines through any device, while maintaining control of merchandising consistency, pricing and packaging across all channels.



“This partnership will transform the way work is done in industries and professions that shape our experience every day,” said Bob Picciano, senior VP, IBM Analytics. “The impact will be felt by experts and professionals who are overwhelmed by today’s digital data and seek better solutions to manage large volumes of information more intelligently and securely. The integration of IBM and Box technologies, combined with our global cloud capabilities and the ability to enrich content with analytics, will help unlock actionable insights for use across the enterprise.”