IBM and Research In Motion have introduced Lotus collaboration software and developer tools for the BlackBerry platform that they said will enable clients to find expertise, form teams, share information, and stay in touch in real-time.

Last year the companies collaborated to provide a line of Web 2.0-powered IBM Lotus collaboration software and information on demand on the BlackBerry platform. They said new features include mobile access to open document format-based IBM Lotus Symphony documents, IBM Lotus Quickr Web 2.0-based team software, and enhanced IBM Lotus Connections functionality.

IBM Lotus Notes and Domino and IBM Lotus Sametime unified communications and collaboration software are also compatible with the BlackBerry Storm smartphone. The companies will also preview tools for developers, including BlackBerry platform support for IBM Lotus Domino Designer and XPages.

Bob Picciano, general manager at IBM Lotus Software, said: The new Lotus collaboration features and developer tools on the BlackBerry platform will deliver productivity beyond the office extending IBM software and services so that individuals can access all of the resources they need to keep their business moving, anytime, anywhere.

Jim Balsillie, Co-CEO of Research In Motion, said: RIM and IBM are strengthening the BlackBerry platform for Lotus with a portfolio of enterprise social networking and collaboration capabilities that will make BlackBerry smartphones even more effective in mobilizing businesses around the globe.”