IBM to Provide Business Transformation Services to the Merrill Lynch Corporate Technology Group

The Corporate Technology Group manages the technology for Merrill Lynchs Corporate Services, Finance, Human Resources, Marketing & Communications, Office of the General Counsel, Research and Treasury areas. Under the terms of the agreement, IBM will implement an end-to-end global financial services solution to strengthen and integrate internal controls and reporting. This effort is designed to reduce the overall costs associated with running and maintaining financial systems. IBM will also take responsibility for providing Application Management Services for the Corporate Technology Group. IBM will work with the group to integrate multiple and unique financial operating systems, functions and initiatives, resulting in internal performance improvements and efficiencies. The streamlining of these business processes will create an environment where real-time, on-demand reporting is possible on a global basis. IBMs management of these functions will provide the Corporate Technology Group with greater control over maintenance spending, and improved ability to manage and implement internal end-user requests. IBM is providing a flexible staffing model that will enable the group to quickly and easily shift resources across applications as business needs change. A key component of the engagement will be the transition of existing and new processes with minimal business disruption. During the integration, IBM will assist the group with the training and communication necessary to successfully transition and deploy the new systems and processes.