IBM has unveiled software which it claims maximises the benefit of cloud computing and helps users automate the running of data centres.

Cloud computing allows corporate data centres to operate with fewer resources, enabling users to build large-scale, distributed and globally accessible data centres.

The software is part of the latest Tivoli Provisioning Manager (TPM) software, which switches servers to standby mode when not in use and automatically restores them to active mode as required.

TPM 5.1.1 automates the discovery, deployment, configuration and management of operating systems, patches, middleware and applications on physical and virtual servers, according to the company.

"Advanced automation and resource optimisation are key to containing costs, and are among the top priorities for businesses today," said Chris O'Connor, vice president of Tivoli strategy and market management at IBM.

"This new version of TPM enables our clients to simplify IT environments, further take advantage of virtualisation and realise the vision of cloud computing."

In a separate announcement, IBM is to make its Lotus Symphony desktop office software available in 24 languages.

Big Blue said that the suite, which features tools for creating text, spreadsheet and presentation documents, has so far been downloaded for use in English by more than 400,000 individuals at work and at home.

"Customers want an open alternative to desktop software that gives them the flexibility to innovate," said Steve Mills, senior vice president and group executive at IBM Software Group.

"This is increasingly important as the workforce collaborates seamlessly across borders and languages in the globally integrated economy, which represents the future of work."