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News and Events
June 8, 2007
Three weeks ago, IBM launched a version of ThinkPlace, our internal collaborative innovation platform, on alphaWorks, our portal for emerging technology, and issued the first public "ThinkPlace Challenge." The purpose of the challenge was to unearth new ideas around how new business models enabled by information technology can help advance the African economy. Since its launch, the ThinkPlace Challenge has had over 10,000 unique participants access the service -- and is currently the most popular service on the alphaWorks Services site. In addition, more than 120 ideas have been developed and shared -- with collaboration from 1,100 users, more than 60 percent of whom were from outside IBM. Many thanks to all who participated in this effort.
Approximately 20 ideas have been identified by volunteers who are serving as catalysts for further development. These ideas helped solidify the strategy of the IBM Worldwide Development Initiative and will feed into the group's work to choose several pilots to launch later this year. In addition, seven ideas will be immediately included in IBM Global Innovation Outlook/Africa sessions. The IBM team in Africa will continue to collaborate on these ideas throughout the month of June and requests that innovators living in Africa continue contributing ideas for further consideration.
For the latest news, check out the GIO blog.