Task of turning around I.B.M. is given to an industry outsider; Nabisco executive gets job after 2-month search

Article Abstract:

Louis V. Gerstner Jr, chairman of RJR Nabisco Holdings Corp, is appointed IBM chairman and CEO, following a two-month search. Gerstner, a computer industry outsider, is known in business circles as a risk-taking business strategist. The IBM board's decision to appoint him is seen as a statement that the computer giant needs more than a seasoned technology expert to turn the business around. Gerstner is mandated to oversee the evolution of IBM into a confederation of smaller, more entrepreneurial companies. He said that he will spend his first few months in office talking to managers and workers and probing into the company's operations before effecting any changes. Gerstner also disputed the belief that IBM's fortunes will experience a sharp reversal soon. He said the conglomerate's financial troubles will take time to solve.

Management, Chief executive officers, Gerstner, Louis V., Jr.

Microsoft plans basic research lab

Article Abstract:

Microsoft Corp hires three research scientists from IBM - George Heidron, Steve Richardson and Karen Jensen - to participate in a new research center that will focus on natural language processing. The new research center hopes to make computer technology available to a wider range of users who do not have much training in computer technology. Industry observers note that the departures from IBM underscores the rivalry that has developed between IBM and Microsoft. The hirings are also seen as part of a Microsoft strategy to get talent from major computer manufacturers. Analysts note that research will be an important part of Microsoft's efforts to continue to maintain control over the computer software industry.

Computer integrated systems design, Research, Computer software industry, Software industry, Microsoft Corp., Industrial research, Recruiting, Employment, Scientists, MSFT, Research and Development, Competition, Language Processing, Natural language processing, Natural Language Interfaces, Head Hunter, Heidron, George, Richardson, Steve, Jensen, Karen

Executive to oversee revamping at I.B.M

Article Abstract:

David E. McKinney is selected for a special assignment to improve the efficiency of IBM's business-support operations, which are operations that are not directly involved in the manufacture, development or sale of computers. McKinney, currently the chairman and chief executive of Europe/Middle East/Africa, will report directly to John Akers, IBM's chairman. McKinney's efforts will be part of an ongoing attempt to improve productivity at IBM, which has cut its business-support staff from 55 percent of total employment to 45 percent during the past five years. McKinney's new job reportedly reflects the importance IBM attaches to a restructuring of business-support operations.

Office machines, not elsewhere classified, Executive, Computer Industry, Organization Structure, McKinney, David E.