IBM

Business type

Open Business

Service/product description

IBM really focusses on opening up, they not only use Linux, but are a great supporter of what they call – collaborative innovation. They have for example opened up their global innovation outlook – open now for everyone to participate. Another example is the IBM’s Jam programs in which IBM creates global online brainstorm sessions (on different topics they can differ from business related to social issues) were everyone can contribute/participate in. It is a real success, tens of thousands of people from all over the world contribute.

What does 'openness' mean in this case?

You can really see that IBM has adopted openness as a business model. They try to open up different parts/product and services of their business. Also they have taken it further then just their business, by organising these Jams they enable others to collaborate/debate on different topics. Using Linux is another example of supporting others in their openness.