IBM joins the 'cloud computing' bandwagon

By Matthew Broersma, ZDNet UK IBM on Monday launched a major initiative into "cloud computing", a current term for Internet-based services, in an effort it hopes will challenge the early lead of cloud pioneers such as Amazon and Google. Among the offerings launched on Monday is "Bluehouse", a Web-based social-networking and collaboration service designed for business, a test version of which is available from IBM's Web site. Bluehouse allows users to carry out many of the activities associated with social networks, but is specifically designed for businesses, with features such as document and contact sharing, joint projects, online meetings and online communities. The project is intended as a way for businesses to connect to partners, agencies, suppliers, customers and outside experts. Other services introduced on Monday... [read full story]