IBM Extends Smarter Cities Initiative through Acquisition of Cúram Software

Since 1999, IBM and Cúram have collaborated on federal, state, local and provincial-level social program solutions around the world. More than 90 percent of Cúram's clients use IBM WebSphere middleware and nearly 70 percent of its clients use IBM hardware. Cúram's software is certified for use with the IBM Government Industry Framework and has been part of IBM Global Business Services' Integrated Case Management solution since 2001.

"After 13 years of experience working with IBM, we know our companies are an excellent fit," said John Hearne, CEO, Cúram Software. "Many of our clients already use IBM technologies and services, and they will benefit from working with Cúram and IBM as one. Through IBM's global reach, we can grow our client base by bringing the benefits of Cúram's Social Industry Platform to citizens around the world."

IBM's announcement of its plan to acquire of Cúram Software follows a series of moves IBM made this year to enhance its offerings for cities and governments. In June, the company introduced the IBM Intelligent Operations Center, which provides a unified view of all city agencies so officials can predict events and quickly respond. Shortly thereafter, IBM announced it planned to acquire i2, a leading provider of intelligence analytics for crime and fraud prevention. The acquisition was completed in October.

After the acquisition is completed, Cúram Software will be integrated into IBM's Software Group, which is a key driver of growth and profitability for the company. Cúram has approximately 700 employees. In addition to its headquarters in Dublin, the company has offices in Herndon, Va.; Toronto; Frankfurt, Germany; Canberra, Australia and Bangalore, India. The acquisition is anticipated to close by the end of December subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and applicable regulatory reviews.