Dell Advances in Cloud Computing

Round Rock, Texas-based PC maker Dell Inc. (DELL - Analyst Report) announced its intention to acquire Software-as-a-Service integration technology provider, Boomi. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

Berwyn, Pennsylvania-based Boomi’s “Atomsphere” technology helps users to integrate and transfer data between and among cloud-based and on-premise applications. Boomi’s technology solution is compatible with Salesforce.com’s (CRM - Analyst Report) customer relationship management suite. The speedy and accurate data transactions reduce costs and boost productivity. According to industry sources, the use of Boomi’s technology has curtailed cloud integration costs by 95%.

Boomi’s services will enable Dell to offer the full value of cloud computing to customers, since software or services are hosted on the Web and available on demand. The acquisition will also make Dell a provider of solutions needed for integration of cloud, which will strengthen its enterprise portfolio. Moreover, Dell will have access to Boomi’s rich customer base and channel partners.

In July, Dell had acquired Ocarina Networks and Scalent Technology. The consecutive acquisitions were intended to beef up Dell’s enterprise solutions portfolio and were in line with its growth strategy for the enterprise business.

We are encouraged by Dell’s attempt to shift its focus from PC and server roots to become a data-center vendor with a broad scope. Moreover, Dell’s recent endeavor to expand in China is also encouraging. However, soft demand in the Consumer segment, a high debt level and stiff competition in the computing and emerging cloud computing space are concerns.

Currently, DELL has a short-term Sell recommendation, as indicated by the Zacks #4 Rank.

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