IBM to acquire software maker for $1.2B

ARMONK, New York -- Armonk, New York-based IBM says the acquisition of the Chicago-based company is expected to strengthen IBM's information-agenda initiative, which helps companies turn information into a strategic asset.

SPSS software predicts customer reactions to a wide range of fields, including sales pitches and marketing campaigns. Clients include financial firms, telecommunications companies, government agencies and educational institutions.