IBM Results Show Progress in Cloud and Data Analysis - The New York Times

Final paragraphs of an IBM earnings report reality check

"IBM says it made the reporting change to more accurately reflect its recast collection of businesses, like Watson, which is part of its cognitive unit.

But analysts say the new reporting structure complicates the task of tracking some effects of IBM’s strategy. For example, it is not easy to tell if its overall software business — new products and old — is growing or shrinking.

The businesses IBM has targeted for growth and investment, like Watson and cloud, grew by 14 percent in the quarter. Still, these so-called strategic initiatives, while showing encouraging gains, are not yet large enough to turn around the fortunes of the company as a whole."

IBM Results Show Progress in Cloud and Data Analysis - The New York Times