Barry Baker: IBM Creates A Safe And Sophisticated System, Already Combat Proven

Barry Baker, Chief Operating Officer (COO) for IBM Infrastructure (photo: ary/voi)

SINGAPORE Barry Baker, Chief Operating Officer (COO) for IBM Infrastructure as well as General Manager for IBM Systems, revealed various IBM innovations in presenting reliable, safe, and sophisticated infrastructure solutions for global clients.

In an exclusive interview with VOI in IBM Think 2025 at Singapore'stensive Hotel, Wednesday, August 20, Baker discussed IBM's major transformation over the past 20 years as well as how the company supports clients in facing today's technological challenges, including AI, hybrid cloud, and quantum computing.

Baker explained that IBM's focus has shifted from simply highlighting hardware specifications, such as core counts and memory capacities, to a full-stack approach that prioritizes real results for clients.

"Now, what we communicate is not only the performance of the server, but how the workload can be run without downtime, safe from cyber threats, and even protected from quantum risk. We also embed AI appropriately in technology stacks in order to provide value quickly," he explained.

Baker stressed the importance of a full stack approach in improving the resilience and security of the system. From chip design, firmware, operating system, to middleware, IBM ensures that each layer contributes to server performance and durability.

This approach allows IBM to meet specific regulatory needs in various industries, including financial and health services. "We don't solve all possible problems, but focus on certain industrial needs, so we can monitor compliance in real-time," he added.

One of IBM's innovative strategies is the Client 0' concept in which IBM became the first user of a new technology developed. This allows the team to test the technology internally before it is applied to clients.

Baker gave an example of the use of robotics in IBM manufacturing facilities in Poughkeepsie, New York, which has proven to significantly increase efficiency and save time. He explained that all the demos shown in IBM Industry 4.0 Studio have been tested and used in real production facilities before being offered to clients. With CLient 0, we can show clients real results and measure the benefits of technology before they use it," he said.

In the context of hybrid cloud, Baker highlighted IBM's technological integration with the Red Hat platform, including Red Hat Enterprise Linux and OpenShift. This approach allows clients to carry out critical workloads safely, remain obedient to regulation, and optimally utilize automation. IBM designed specific solutions based on industry needs so that the implementation process became efficient and effective.

Baker also highlighted the challenges of AI adoption in companies, especially related to data integration. Many companies do not yet have a hybrid approach and are consistent in data management, so AI only relies on public models.

If the company does not have a consistent approach to data and infrastructure, they will find it difficult to enter enter the data enter into AI solutions. As a result, their AI is only limited to public models that are less relevant to internal needs," he explained.

IBM helps clients by providing infrastructure that allows efficient AI use, ranging fromhirs, Power servers, to storage that maximizes GPU performance. Baker said IBM has the technology to ensure GPUs run with the highest utilization levels consistently.

On the compliance side, IBM embeds AI with low power consumption through on-chip technology on Z and Power 11 processors, as well as a new Accelerator card called Spire which will be released this year. This allows clients to run various deep learning and machine learning models locally, cost-effective and energy. One example is the use of AI for preventing fraud in financial transactions.

Regarding quantum computing, Baker explained that IBM is still in the research stage. IBM's target is to present the first quantum fault-tolerant system in 2029. IBM separates quantum research activities from the product team, ensuring a mature approach before this technology is commercially implemented. Baker stressed that the company is developing a hybrid quantum solution that combines QPU, CPU, and GPU for the practical use of clients in the future.

Baker also discussed IBM's system portfolio, including IBM Z, Power, and storage, as an infrastructure core that provides significant value for clients. The system allows companies to allocate resources and budgets to other projects, while ensuring the mission-critical environment continues without downtime. IBM's cloud infrastructure helps clients access this technology through public cloud, while TLS services keep operations stable in critical environments.

Regarding AI adoption, Baker saw the acceleration of demand from enterprise clients who wanted to immediately implement the AI use case. IBM now has about 250 use cases proposed by clients to cover, including the use of local AI on platforms for security and operational efficiency.

In addition, IBM continues to monitor AI costs and optimize infrastructure so that large-scale AI usage remains efficient and energy efficient.

Baker closed the interview affirming IBM's commitment to supporting clients in implementing technological innovation quickly, safely, and effectively. Our role is to present reliable infrastructure, resilients, and ready to face future challenges, as well as to help clients take advantage of AI and hybrid cloud optimally," he concluded.