Is IBM serious about cloud computing?

Last week in Eye on the Enterprise, Joe McKendrick, highlighted IBM VP Steve Mills’ apparently less than enthusiastic statement regarding cloud computing. In an April 30th interview with CNET’s Dan Farber, Steve Mills said:

“The cloud as some amorphous concept that meets all needs and requirements is science fiction.”

Mr. McKendrick sees this as evidence of IBM’s long history of competing with itself. Personally, I believe that IBM is just being coy about it’s intentions. To support my point, I refer you to Mr. Mills’ statements on March 19th regarding the IBM European Cloud Computing Hub:

“Our investments in cloud computing are a prime example of how IBM is seeking out emerging global market opportunities and new computing models that benefit IBM clients,” said Steve Mills, Senior Vice President and Group Executive, IBM Software Group. “Through this new facility and the cloud computing model, the wealth of talent at IBM’s software lab in Ireland will be accessible to not only the rest of Europe, but Africa and the Middle East as well.”

Cloud computing is good for IBM hardware and IBM software. Trust me. IBM will continue to be a leader to the cloud computing revolution.