IBM taps social software for business

Lotus Connections takes lead from MySpace

IBM is leading the rush for enterprise software companies to adopt consumer web capabilities with Lotus Connections, a set of tools that brings MySpace-like social networking to big business.

Due by July, Lotus Connections, like MySpace or Facebook, is a way to let users flag interests and tag them so they are identifiable to colleagues. Users can also broadcast useful web page bookmarks, in a project IBM has previously referred to by the Dog-ear codename.

IBM said Connections offered a way to automate knowledge management through the usability of social software combined with security, authentication, directory, storage management and integration with enterprise software such as Lotus Notes, Sametime and portals. IBM said it would publish open APIs so third-parties can plug applications into Connections.

“Enterprises are very conscious about the flow of information outside the organisation but want to speed it up inside the organisation,” said a spokesman.

“When you look at the social networks out there today, they’re all about Britney Spears. [With Lotus Connections] you can use real-life business data and do real work. You’re not just talking about where to go for lunch.”