IBM Looks to Boost CRM Skills with Optevia Acquisition

IBM (IBM) is now the proud owner of Optevia, a Software as a Service (SaaS) specialist and systems integrator based in the United Kingdom.

The company, which is mostly known for its work surrounding Microsoft Dynamics CRM solutions for the public sector, is expected to help IBM fill demand for CRM SaaS solutions from its global customer base, according to the announcement. While no financial details surrounding the deal were disclosed, Optevia is scheduled to be integrated into IBM’s Global Business Services division.

IBM said it plans to scale the company’s solutions to other areas worldwide. Currently, the company plays heavily in providing solutions to the public sector in the United Kingdom, including UK Emergency Services, Central Government, Local Government, Health Authorities and more.

“By acquiring Optevia, IBM will be able to provide Public Sector clients and prospects with a range of unique, industry focused CRM based solutions,” said Joanna Davinson, IBM Public Sector Leader – Europe, in a statement. “This strategic acquisition will help strengthen IBM as a SaaS provider and Global Software Integrator.”

The purchase could prove to be a smart decision, especially given estimates that the worldwide CRM industry currently totals more than $23 billion, according to industry analysts. Cloud-based CRM solutions alone are expected to account for more than half of that total.

The acquisition is IBM’s most recent purchase in the cloud space, after the company acquired Meteorix last year. M&A Advisory Firm Martin Wolf said the acquisition will allow IBM to keep pace with other players in the CRM SaaS market as the space becomes increasingly more competitive.