In a first-of-its-kind partnership, IBM has opened a first-of-its-kind Analytics Solutions Lab in the Columbus region to exclusively focus on “the design, build, management and support” of solutions that respond to its customers’ analytics challenges, the company said on its website www-935.ibm.com.

According to IBM, its new partnership with Columbus 2020, the State of Ohio and several companies will help grow the area economy by ensuring that existing companies are thriving, the world’s leading companies are attracted to the region and innovations are cultivated and commercialized here. The company’s analytics software and services range from business and decision optimization to content analytics and IT infrastructure for clients as diverse as Dillard’s Department Stores and the Memphis Police Department.

Part of the venerable company’s attraction to central Ohio were the state’s bench strength in academic and research institutions, including The Ohio State University and Battelle Memorial Institute. The new lab is expected to create 500 new jobs for the region and nurture new analytics talent designed to ultimately make Columbus home to some of the best and brightest IT minds.