IBM is doubling down on its data delivery capabilities with its recent acquisition of Hakkoda Inc., a global data and AI consultancy. The deal closed on April 2 and will add specialized expertise to accelerate users’ journey to an AI-powered future with Big Blue.
Hakkoda brings deep proficiency in migrating, modernizing, and monetizing data assets to IBM’s portfolio. An award-winning Snowflake partner and an advanced AWS partner, Hakkoda has built agile, cost-efficient, multi-use case data platforms essential for extracting real business value from AI initiatives. Their roster of SnowPro certifications also underscores a commitment to cutting-edge data cloud technologies.
According to IBM, this acquisition goes beyond adding headcount. Hakkoda brings a portfolio of generative AI-powered assets specifically designed to fast-track data modernization projects. This means IBM can offer organizations solutions that make rapid progress towards leveraging AI for tangible outcomes across key sectors like financial services, the public sector, and healthcare and life sciences.
Mohamad Ali, Head of IBM Consulting, stated, “IBM is supercharging our consultants with AI. Hakkoda’s integration will amplify this, embedding their data-centric approach within IBM Consulting Advantage.”
Erik Duffield, Hakkoda’s CEO, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing their shared commitment to actively shaping the AI revolution. “We are excited to join IBM at this critical moment when organizations are looking for a trusted partner to help them modernize their data for the AI era,” he said.
Finally, this acquisition positions IBM as an even stronger partner, ready to guide organizations through the intricacies of data migration and creating future-ready data estates.
What This Means for ERP Insiders
IBM is expanding its expertise in AI-driven ERP transformations. IBM’s recent acquisitions, including earlier ones like Accelalpha and Applications Software Technology (AST), both Oracle consultancies in late 2024/early 2025, demonstrate a strategy to build a comprehensive ecosystem of expertise around enterprise applications, including ERP, and their integration with AI. This means access to a broader pool of consultants with deep knowledge in specific ERP systems (like Oracle and potentially SAP, given their partnership) and cutting-edge AI technologies. This combined expertise can facilitate smoother and more effective transformations towards AI-enabled ERP environments tailored to specific industry needs. For example, Hakkoda has strengths in finance, public sector, and healthcare.
IBM’s latest acquisition signals a stronger push towards integrating AI into ERP systems. Hakkoda brings expertise in data modernization and generative AI assets, which can accelerate the implementation of AI-powered features within ERP workflows. For example, AI could automate invoice processing, improve demand forecasting, or personalize HR processes within the ERP with these capabilities.
The focus on data readiness for AI in ERP is increasing. Hakkoda’s specialization in data migration, modernization, and building multi-use case data platforms optimized for cloud environments is crucial for ERP users. To leverage AI effectively within ERP, the underlying data needs to be well-structured, accessible, and of high quality. This acquisition indicates that IBM is prioritizing the “data foundation” required for successful AI deployment in ERP. Users can expect more robust tools and consulting services to prepare their ERP data for AI applications, leading to more accurate insights and better AI-driven outcomes.
