IBM and Dassault Systèmes have signed an agreement under which Dassault intends to acquire IBM sales and client support operations encompassing Dassault's PLM software application portfolio, as well as customer contracts and related assets, for approximately $600 million in cash.
 
Dassault and IBM have also defined the next steps in their long-standing relationship, and plan to establish Dassault as an IBM Global Alliance Partner and expand their services partnership.

While the transaction is being completed, both companies expect their existing operations, including customer service and product availability, to continue as usual. After completion of the transaction and integration of the two companies’ PLM operations, Dassault PLM customers will benefit from simplified engagement and support processes.
 
“The adoption and integration of PLM and 3D collaboration by a growing number of enterprises require deep industry knowledge," said Bernard Charlès, president and CEO of Dassault Systèmes. "The planned integration of the IBM sales force and related business operations represents the largest investment in our corporate history. We are putting our customers and partners first, creating a globally efficient sales organization to bring the value of V6 PLM applications to every enterprise in every industry.”
 
Pursuant to the planned global alliance agreement, IBM and Dassault expect to continue to jointly invest in developing, deploying and supporting client PLM environments, delivering integrated PLM solutions to their clients worldwide.
 
The enhanced services agreement is expected to bring significant potential to the global marketplace with extended IBM resources and expertise to help transform client PLM environments, leveraging the DS V6 portfolio.  Both companies are dedicated to strengthening and extending their cooperation in the areas of professional services, cloud computing, middleware, flexible financing, hardware, and sales and distribution.  
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