IBM announced new software, industry solution frameworks, and partner programs to help customers use trusted information in real-time to optimize their businesses, better compete, and take advantage of emerging business opportunities.

IBM introduced the new offerings to <A HREF="http://www-03.ibm.com/press/us/en/pressrelease/22457.wss">extend its global Information on Demand initiative,</A> which is making it possible for customers to gain a competitive advantage in their industries through new and innovative uses of trusted business information.

The offerings help customers solve some of the biggest information-related challenges affecting businesses. These include real-time delivery of information for data warehousing, data integration, and master data management. Through these products and its global business consulting expertise, IBM is providing customers with tools and techniques that significantly reduce the expense and time required to use information technologies to address industry-specific requirements. For example, IBM's software and solutions will enable retailers to make real-time, personalized offers to customers at the point-of-sale, maximizing the effectiveness of marketing campaigns and increasing sales and revenue generated per customer.