Computing conglomerate IBM acquired Ireland-based social programme software developer Cúram Software on Monday for an undisclosed amount, with the central goal of expanding its Smarter Cities project. Fidelity Growth Partners said on its website it backed Curam when it had completed the first version of its product
The deal follows the opening of an IBM Smarter Cities Technology Centre in Dublin last year. IBM works with a range of public and private entities through the centres to devise and commercialise methods of making cities run better, and Cúram’s own Cúram Research Institute will work with the centre in achieving its goals.
IBM and Cúram have been collaborative partners since 1999, working together on social programs throughout the world, and Cúram estimates that 90% of its clients use IBM middleware with 70% using IBM hardware. Post-acquisition, IBM will integrate Cúram into its IBM Software Group.
Cúram’s software is currently used by government agency projects worldwide to deliver social programs and services to citizens, and provides an analysis of benefits and services provided by public and private organisations which traverses various departments.
Craig Hayman, general manager of IBM Industry Solutions, said: "We are working to help cities and governments at all levels transform the way they interact with citizens while improving efficiency. We all have stories to tell about standing in long lines or making countless phone calls to gain access to government services, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Together with Cúram, IBM can transform the way citizens do business with government in a way that benefits everyone."