IBM is shutting down its Cloud for Education platform just two years after its launch. The company has announced that the service will be fully withdrawn from service and support by November 2023. IBM attributes this decision to the introduction of services like VPC, Code Engine, and third-party offerings from companies such as Dizzion and Citrix. Additionally, the demand for educational cloud computing during the pandemic did not meet the initial expectations.
Customers will have until either November 30 or until their current license expires to find an alternative solution. The Education Cloud was originally designed to make lab resources more accessible in the face of the global shift to online learning. It aimed to address issues related to compliance, management, and user experience.
IBM has stated that representatives will be reaching out to customers to help them plan for this change and determine the best course of action. This closure will affect all IBM Cloud for Education Applications Lab, including various plans and subscriptions.
Despite several attempts to establish a presence in the cloud market, including acquisitions of companies like SoftLayer and Red Hat, IBM has struggled to match the success of its main rivals, AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. The closure of this less successful branch of IBM’s operations is believed to be part of a broader cost-cutting measure that has led to the termination of numerous IBM projects. Earlier this year, IBM cut nearly 4,000 roles and later suggested that AI could replace a significant portion of its back-office workers within the next five years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to the Above News
Why is IBM shutting down its Cloud for Education platform?
IBM is shutting down its Cloud for Education platform due to the introduction of other services like VPC, Code Engine, and third-party offerings that have made it less competitive. Additionally, the demand for educational cloud computing during the pandemic did not meet the initial expectations.
When will the service be fully withdrawn from service and support?
The service will be fully withdrawn from service and support by November 2023.
What alternatives do customers have?
Customers have until either November 30 or until their current license expires to find an alternative solution.
What was the purpose of the Education Cloud platform?
The Education Cloud platform was designed to make lab resources more accessible for online learning, addressing issues related to compliance, management, and user experience.
How will IBM assist customers in planning for this change?
IBM has stated that representatives will be reaching out to customers to help them plan for this change and determine the best course of action.
Will the closure affect all IBM Cloud for Education Applications Lab?
Yes, the closure will affect all IBM Cloud for Education Applications Lab, including various plans and subscriptions.
Has IBM struggled in the cloud market compared to its main rivals?
Yes, IBM has struggled to match the success of its main rivals like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud in the cloud market.
Is the closure part of a broader cost-cutting measure by IBM?
Yes, the closure of the Cloud for Education platform is believed to be part of a broader cost-cutting measure that has resulted in terminating numerous IBM projects.
How many roles did IBM cut earlier this year?
Earlier this year, IBM cut nearly 4,000 roles.
What did IBM suggest about AI and its back-office workers?
IBM suggested that AI could replace a significant portion of its back-office workers within the next five years.
Please note that the FAQs provided on this page are based on the news article published. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is always recommended to consult relevant authorities or professionals before making any decisions or taking action based on the FAQs or the news article.
