I would like to see more GIBM blog posts, articles, and overall communications about how Greater IBM’ers are connecting and collaborating with each other in unusual ways to make a difference.  That's what this is all about, right?

OK, here's one for you...

After 11 years at IBM (’95-’06), I spent 18 months producing my very first (but hopefully not my last) feature length documentary film. Yes, IBM marketing chick turns filmmaker.  Some people take up knitting. Me? I make a movie, go figure. J I have to say, it was probably one of the most complex projects I’ve ever tackled and yet the most creative, rewarding and fun.

Our film, “Single” (www.singlefilm.com) is about the growth of the unmarried population and the complexities of finding and maintaining a lasting relationship in today’s crazy world. We even explore how technology has helped and hurt us in this regard. My film partner, Richard Atkinson, and I completed it earlier this year and I’m pleased to say that feedback from initial audiences has been *overwhelmingly* positive. We are still in the early stages of public awareness and promotion, but the film seems to strike a strong personal chord with all viewers - regardless of age, gender, and relationship status.

And I have to thank a number of IBM’ers – past and present, and on both sides of the Atlantic – for playing a role (figuratively and literally!) in my wonderful filmmaking adventure.

• One current IBM VP (and former manager) introduced me to an author who wound up being one of the star experts of the film.
• One current IBM’er composed and recorded some instrumental music to help set the mood in a few key scenes. Funny thing, I worked with him for a couple of years and didn't even know he played a musical instrument till now!
• One current IBM’er (and former manager) saw an early preview of the film and blogged about it at her online journal – and her posting generated over 250 comments and led to a huge spike of hits to our web site.
• And possibly the coolest thing: A few IBM’ers (past and present) can now add “movie star” to their professional resumes.  How many IBM’ers can say that?!  J Watch the trailer below and you might spot some familiar faces (including mine)!

Without the contributions of these GIBM'ers, I can honestly say that “Single” would be a very different film.

So for me, this is what the Greater IBM Connection is all about. And we need to enable more of it.  More ways to make and maintain connections with each other and collaborate.  Do -- or create -- "business unusual."  Most importantly, continue to make a difference in some way...together. My example shows that the relationships we build during our time as IBM’ers can transcend the limits of our formal employment ties. And I've got a great movie to prove it! J

Got a similar story to tell? Let’s hear it!

Jane Scandurra

IBM'er '95-'06

Single - a documentary film

www.singlefilm.com