Viacom-IBM Technology Services Deal Sets Stage for Digital Entertainment Future
NEW YORK & ARMONK, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 6, 2002--IBM and Viacom Inc. today announced a technology and consulting initiative that will lay the foundation for future digital entertainment services and enhance the performance of Viacom's technology infrastructure.
The deal - which includes MTV Networks, Showtime Networks, Paramount, CBS and Viacom Corporate - covers U.S. operations spanning eleven locations in four states.
Working with IBM, Viacom will establish a cross-enterprise computing platform capable of supporting digital media as well as computing services delivered on demand. IBM will also provide the technology skills and systems management processes to help Viacom evolve its computing infrastructure.
IBM will deploy a team of business and IT consultants with expertise in the media and entertainment industries to help Viacom develop new initiatives in such areas as digital management of entertainment content, wireless content delivery and computer services delivered on demand. In addition, the consultants will explore areas in which the two companies can collaborate in the future.
"IBM is helping Viacom prepare for the digital entertainment future by enhancing our computing operations, creating cross-enterprise efficiencies and forming new technology initiatives," said Russ Pillar, president, Viacom Digital Media Group. "In addition to significant cost savings, this relationship will bring us competitive advantages while allowing us to focus on the creation and distribution of world-class entertainment content."
"Viacom is leading an entertainment industry trend by exploiting new technologies that will set the stage for a digital future," said Dick Anderson, general manager, media and entertainment industry, IBM. "IBM will provide the tools, industry expertise, and technology services to help Viacom deliver on its vision for a digital future."
About Viacom
Viacom is a leading global media company, with preeminent positions in broadcast and cable television, radio, outdoor advertising, and online. With programming that appeals to audiences in every demographic category across virtually all media, the company is a leader in the creation, promotion, and distribution of entertainment, news, sports, and music. Viacom's well-known brands include CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, VH1, BET, Paramount Pictures, Viacom Outdoor, Infinity, UPN, TNN: The National Network, CMT: Country Music Television, Showtime, Blockbuster, and Simon & Schuster. More information about Viacom and its businesses is available at www.viacom.com.
About IBM
IBM is the world's largest information technology company, with 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate. IBM is helping media and entertainment companies worldwide take advantage of the business opportunities made possible by digital technology. IBM offers a comprehensive portfolio of solutions, networking and service offerings that is transforming the traditional creative and business processes of media and Entertainment companies and positioning them to leverage their intellectual assets into new commercial opportunities. Additional information on IBM's strategy for the media and entertainment industry can be found at www.ibm.com/solutions/media.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:
Viacom Inc.
Susan Duffy, 212/258-6347
Susan.Duffy@viacom.com
or
IBM
Nancy Kaplan, 914/766-4265
Mobile: 914/843-4029
nkaplan@us.ibm.com
Email
