Lotusphere 2012: IBM launches social analytics for business

New software and services aimed at boosting workforce networking

IBM has launched an updated version of its cloud computing offering, SmartCloud for Social Business, at its Lotusphere 2012 event in Orlando.

The IT giant said the new version simplifies access to business-grade file sharing, social networking, instant messaging, email and calendars. It will also enable users to co-edit documents in the cloud in real time.

The update will also incorporate IBM's previous cloud offering, LotusLive, meaning existing users can continue to log on.

The vendor said LotusLive is part of SmartCloud for Social Business to help "bring together IBM's cloud initiatives and services".

IBM will also release a software update to its social networking platform, IBM Connections. It said this will incorporate analytics capabilities, data monitoring and the use of IBM's new cloud services.

The tech giant said the new software and services will "deliver comprehensive networking capabilities" to the workforce.

Appliance provider Electrolux is using IBM Connections to connect its global workforce. Its employees are using the software for microblogging to spread relevant information across the organisation.

"Our goal is to empower our employees so they have access to content and collaboration tools anytime and from anywhere," said Electrolux online employee engagement and development director Ralf Larsson.

Electrolux's intranet is powered by IBM Connections and Microsoft SharePoint. It contains more than 100 information portals, which are managed by about 450 editors serving 9,000 readers daily.