In a significant move to reshape the consulting industry, IBM has enhanced its AI platform, IBM Consulting Advantage. The update introduces the new Granite 3.0 language models to empower its 160,000 consultants. This expansion aims to make consultants more efficient and deliver better, faster results for clients, fundamentally changing how businesses approach AI-driven transformations and technology investments.
What is New with IBM Consulting Advantage?
IBM Consulting Advantage is the company’s unique AI delivery platform, which combines its deep industry expertise with technology from strategic partners. The platform is designed to help IBM consultants deliver solutions more effectively, speeding up the time it takes for clients to see real value from their projects.
The biggest change is the integration of Granite 3.0 as the platform’s default large language model. IBM states that Granite 3.0 is a top performer, matching or even beating other models of a similar size on key industry tests. This ensures that the AI used in critical business situations is not only powerful but also transparent and safe, building a foundation of trust.
A Boost for Consultants and Better Results for Clients
The core idea behind the enhanced platform is to put powerful AI tools directly into the hands of IBM’s global consulting team. Consultants can now use the Granite models for a wide range of client projects, from improving customer service to modernizing complex IT systems. This allows them to deliver more efficient and effective solutions.
David Cushman, an Executive Research Leader at HFS Research, commented on the move. He noted that “IBM is applying AI to make its consultants faster and more efficient while also delivering better results for clients at lower cost.” He highlighted that this combination of human skill and AI software is a game-changer for the consulting world. Clients now get access to specialized AI agents and proven methods, which puts IBM at the forefront of business transformation.
Focus on Cloud and Business Operations
The expansion includes two specialized offerings designed to tackle key business challenges. These new capabilities target cloud transformation and business operations, helping clients modernize and streamline their core functions. For instance, a global retail client has already used these tools to cut their invoice entry cycle time by 60%.
IBM is aiming to bring 50 clients onto these new domain-specific platforms by the end of 2024.
| Offering | Key Focus Areas | How it Helps Clients |
|---|---|---|
| IBM Consulting Advantage for Cloud Transformation | Cloud strategy, mainframe modernization, platform migrations, and product engineering. | Helps define and execute cloud plans, minimize project risks, and speed up timelines for moving to the cloud. |
| IBM Consulting Advantage for Business Operations | Transforming HR, finance, supply chain, and procurement with AI. | Uses AI-powered agents to simplify workflows, connect separate processes, and improve employee and user experiences. |
How the AI Agents and Interface Work
The platform is designed for ease of use. Consultants can access the AI agents through IBM watsonx, the company’s AI and data platform. It features a simple conversational interface that allows consultants to get insights and automate tasks quickly.
A key feature is the flexibility it offers.
- Consultants can easily switch between IBM’s Granite models and other third-party AI models.
- This allows them to compare different outputs and choose the best tool for a specific task.
- By automating routine work like data analysis, the agents free up consultants to focus on more strategic decisions.
This tailored approach ensures that clients receive the most suitable and effective solution for their unique needs, speeding up project timelines and improving overall outcomes.
The Future of Consulting is People and Software Together
IBM’s vision is clear: the future of consulting lies in a powerful partnership between human experts and artificial intelligence. The IBM Consulting Advantage platform acts as a complete workbench for this new era, equipped with advanced AI and technology from both IBM and its partners.
Built on principles of trust and strong governance, the platform positions IBM as a leader in a transforming industry. As AI becomes more essential to every business function, IBM plans to continue evolving its solutions, further weaving together human talent and AI to drive incredible results for clients worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IBM Consulting Advantage?
It is IBM’s AI-powered delivery platform created for its 160,000 consultants. The platform combines IBM’s industry knowledge with partner technology to help deliver client solutions faster and more efficiently.
What is the main new feature in this expansion?
The main new feature is the integration of IBM’s Granite 3.0 large language models as the default AI engine. These models are designed to be high-performing, safe, and transparent for critical business use cases.
How does this platform help IBM’s clients?
Clients benefit from faster project timelines, lower costs, and better results. The platform’s AI tools help streamline operations, such as reducing invoice processing time, and accelerate complex projects like cloud migrations.
Can consultants use other AI models besides Granite 3.0?
Yes, the platform includes a flexible interface that allows consultants to switch between IBM Granite and third-party generative AI models. This enables them to compare outputs and select the best model for any given task.
What are the new domain-specific offerings?
IBM introduced two new specialized services: IBM Consulting Advantage for Cloud Transformation and IBM Consulting Advantage for Business Operations. These target key areas like cloud strategy, HR, and finance to help clients modernize their businesses.
