IBM Portal Software

IBM Corp. said it will release software early next year that will give workers a broad menu of personalized Web pages for use virtually anywhere, from desk to hand-held device. The world’s No. 2 software maker, like rivals such as market leader Microsoft Corp., is seeking to give the corporate computer’s desktop a new look. Instead of using only Microsoft’s Windows operating system to get company information, software makers are promoting “portal” software that works with a Web browser to let workers get often-used data through any device. Armonk, N.Y.-based IBM said its product will offer more capabilities in an out-of-the-box, general-purpose portal. The software runs on server computers, which manage and distribute information on corporate networks. IBM shares fell 13 cents to $84.69 on the NYSE.