The cloud native operating model is changing the way businesses operate and compete globally. It provides flexibility and speed, aligning with business strategies to create a unified and agile infrastructure. As businesses grow and evolve, cloud native platforms offer the scalability needed to manage fluctuating workloads, allowing them to adjust resources in response to changing demands.

Kyndryl, the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, recently acquired Skytap, a privately held Seattle company that helps organizations move operations to the cloud. This acquisition will expand Kyndryl’s hybrid cloud solutions portfolio, providing customers with the flexibility they need to scale their workloads up and down within Azure, using its modern features for surrounding applications.

Dave Simpson, Global Cloud Practice Leader at Kyndryl, said that the expanded portfolio will offer a more integrated service offering, with Skytap’s unique IP enabling an easier transition to the cloud.

“Kyndryl and Skytap are a natural fit, and we are excited to join forces,” said Brad Schick, CEO of Skytap. “Kyndryl’s industry-leading services are ready to lead businesses through cloud migration and modernization utilizing Skytap's capabilities for running complex workloads in supported hyperscaler environments.”

Here, Simpson talks about the synergies between the two companies, hyperscaler growth and the future of cloud at Kyndryl.

Let’s talk about Skytap in particular. What are some of its biggest benefits?

Simpson: Skytap’s unique relationship with Microsoft and its exclusive ability to move workloads into Azure datacenters were beneficial. Skytap’s integration with Microsoft allows for a seamless experience for our customers. Additionally, Skytap’s team brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise that complements Kyndryl's existing services, making it an ideal addition to Kyndryl’s hybrid cloud services portfolio.

How does Skytap align with Kyndryl's hyperscaler strategy and momentum?

Simpson: Skytap enhances our capabilities in helping customers modernize and manage their hybrid cloud environments. It accelerates our growth in the hyperscaler space by providing additional flexibility and support for our customers’ diverse workloads. The purchase aligns with our hyperscaler strategy focused on deepening partnerships like that with Microsoft and providing top-tier services in the cloud ecosystem.

What immediate changes can customers expect to see post-acquisition?

Simpson: Kyndryl customers will have access to a more comprehensive service offering, with the ability to use Skytap’s technology for an easier transition to the cloud.

The seamless integration of the Skytap platform with Kyndryl services accelerates the modernization of customers’ business-critical workloads, providing access to 200+ Cloud and AI services on Azure.