“they can be “the man behind the man who’s supporting the man”.”

I like that. IBM is such a dichotomy. They are a company that has virtually defined operating systems, relational database technology, and even put binary switches on electrons. Then they turn around and produce OS/2 and almost kill DB2. IMHO, the only time they partner well is when they plan on buying a company. The Goolge gig will could turn into another Microsoft. I think IBM is back to the pre-Lou era where they make 5-10 year decisions and they are not reacting to the current sign posts. Heck what do I know? You are right it will be really fun to watch next year and either way I think the consumer will benefit.

Thanks for commenting on my blog.

John

However, I disagree with you that IBM will attempt another OS2. You suggest “IBM will probably try to do everything themselves and go directly to the customers.” however, IBM’s not traditionally good with the class of customers that Amazon’s catering too, i.e. really_small and small business.

IBM’s philosophy will probably be the belief that they can be “the man behind the man who’s supporting the man”. In other words, Amazon can support the end customer and IBM will attempt to position themselves as the enabler with Amazon.

As you mentioned there’s some overlap between Amazon and Google, and don’t forget that IBM and Google are “partners” in the Cloud Computing initiative, see; http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_52/b4064048925836.htm?campaign_id=rss_tech

Of course it’s really written as Google’s show with IBM as, the man behind the man…

But you’re right to point out that “Blue Cloud” is different then the Business Week article…

Looks like there’s a lot of storm fronts afloat with all these clouds.