IBM Outlines IMS Strategy

IBM outlined its IMS (Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystems) architecture to help telcos transition to Next Generation Networks. The strategy uses various industry components and leverages the IBM Service Provider Delivery Environment (SPDE) framework. Legacy and evolving components are integrated by using open computing standards.


IBM will provide its telecommunications industry clients pre-integrated business solutions that are fully tested and designed to meet carrier grade quality standards. The integrated hardware and software components will form a high-performance service delivery platform based on Rational, Tivoli and WebSphere software.


IBM plans to leverage its eServer BladeCenter T and CarrierGrade Linux computing platform. The company said it will soon announce related software offerings for creating, integrating, executing current and next generation services in a flexible, cost-effective manner.


IBM is also unveiling six new Telecommunications Solutions Labs worldwide, including facilities in Austin, Beaverton, La Gaude, Hursley, Montpellier and Beijing. The IBM Telecommunications Solutions Labs offer technical skills across a range of telecom solutions to include Network Transformation, Service Delivery Platforms and BSS/OSS Transformation. Several IMS proof of concept projects, among others, are currently underway at the labs.


IBM is currently working with more than 800 business partners on telecommunications solutions.


"IMS is only relevant if it is directly contributing towards corporate fiscal and strategic objectives," said Joseph Ziskin, Vice President of strategy and growth initiatives, IBM Telecommunications Industry.
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