Computer firms buy up IT companies to expand offerings

Computer firms buy up IT companies to expand offerings

Companies best known for selling hardware and software are expanding their portfolios, buying up information technology services providers so they can offer a more complete package, particularly in Washington's federal marketplace.

The move reflects increased interest from government agencies in buying the associated services for maintaining and managing products, rather than just the hardware or software, the companies say. And as the government now looks to areas like cybersecurity and health-care IT, these companies -- several with local locations -- argue they are well-positioned to help.

Xerox, known for its copiers and printers, earlier this year bought Dallas-based Affiliated Computer Services, which specializes in business process outsourcing. James A. Firestone, Xerox's president for corporate operations, said customers were requesting additional services based on the technology Xerox already offered, such as asking the compa