AS IBM Philippines celebrates its 70 years since it was first registered in the Securities and Exchange Commission as Watson Business Machines on July 20, 1937, it looks back on history and takes time out to recognize the companies who distinguish themselves for being the first to adopt an IBM machine or technology platform, to deploy any of its software product or to implement a solution.
Over time, IBM product lines have certainly changed, from mechanical tabulators, to electromagnetic recorders, to va-cuum tube machines, to today’s most powerful computers, middleware and end-to-end business solutions. But one thing that remains unchanged is IBM’s dedication to every client’s success.
“We searched our records and also ran focused group discussions to establish the record of first users of IBM products.
People sometimes remember better the spectacular deals and the bigger clients, but we sought only the first clients on any of our platforms.”
“Greater risks”
“In so doing we highlight the early adopters of our technology, the clients who took greater risks by betting on IBM first,” said James Velasquez, IBM Philippines president and general manager.
IBM Philippines recently celebrated its 70th Anniversary by recognizing 24 clients.
“In some cases they set a trend, in a few they were just the first. In some cases, they remained loyal and long-standing clients; in other cases, they tested our dedication to every client’s success,” said Velasquez.
Among the IBM awar-dees are: Manila City, Manila Electric Co., Manila Doctors’ Hospital, Philippine American Life Insurance, Social Security System, Mapua Institute, China Banking Corp., Bank of Philippines Islands, Ayala Corp., Asian Development Bank, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Philippine Airlines, Phimco Industries, Landmark Corp., Megalink Inc.,
Digital Telecommunications Philippines, Smart Communications Inc., Fluor Daniel Inc., V Connect, Land Bank, Government Service Insurance System, Universal Robina Corp., Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co., and Banco de Oro-EPCI. (PR)
