International Data Group

Publishing company

"IDG" redirects here. For other uses, see IDG (disambiguation).

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International Data Group

Company type| Private
Founded| 1964; 61 years ago (1964)
Founders| Patrick Joseph McGovern
Headquarters|

Needham, Massachusetts

United States

Area served

| Worldwide
Owner| Blackstone Inc.
Website| idginc.com

International Data Group (IDG, Inc.)[1] is an American market intelligence and demand generation company[2] focused on the technology industry. IDG, Inc.'s mission is centered around supporting the technology industry through research, data, marketing technology, and insights that help create and sustain relationships between businesses.[3]

IDG, Inc. is wholly owned by Blackstone[4] and is led by Genevieve Juillard, who was appointed CEO of the company in 2023.[5] Juillard serves on IDG, Inc.'s leadership team along with IDC President Crawford Del Prete and IDG, Inc.'s Chief Financial Officer Tiziana Figliolia.[6]

IDG, Inc. is headquartered in Needham, Massachusetts[7] and is the parent company of both International Data Corporation (IDC) and Foundry (formerly IDG Communications).[3][8]

## History

[edit]

International Data Group was initially founded as International Data Corporation (IDC) in 1964 by Patrick Joseph McGovern, shortly after he had graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Based in Massachusetts, the company produced a computer installation database, and published a newsletter, "EDP Industry and Market Report" (modeled on "ADP Newsletter", which was published by the Diebold Group). Companies such as RCA, Univac, Xerox, and Burroughs paid IDC for use of the data base. During this time, McGovern continued to work as a writer for "Computers and Automation" magazine, the first computer magazine, published by Edmund Berkeley.[citation needed]

### Publisher history

[edit]

By IDG's third year, McGovern was considering liquidating the company when he hit on the idea of launching Computerworld in 1967,[9] which was a continuation of the monthly newsletter, published weekly instead of monthly, in a different format, with advertising, and which would become a cornerstone of IDG's subsequent publishing arm.[10]

In 1969, IDG made its first overseas expansion when it opened IDC UK and launched its first European publication. In 1974, the company launched its first international publication, Computerwoche, in Germany, its first fully translated publication. International publications in Japan, China, the then Soviet Union, Vietnam, and other countries would follow throughout the 1990s.[11]

In 1984, the company launched MacWorld in the same week that the Macintosh computer was debuted, and featured Steve Jobs on its cover. In the 1991, IDG Books launched its For Dummies series with DOS For Dummies,[12] and published many instructional/reference books under the series until Hungry Minds (the new name for IDG Books) was acquired by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. in 2001.[13]

In 2007, IDG ceased print publication of InfoWorld U.S. and made the content available online only, signaling the company's transition to a web-centric model for publication.[14]

### Events, Research & Technology Marketing

[edit]

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, IDG would break into the events and research spaces. In the early 1970s, it launched its Computer Caravan trade show in the US, reaching nine US cities in 11 weeks.[15] By 1972, the Computer Caravan had a European presence as well.[16]

In the 1980s, IDG launched IDC Predictions via its subsidiary IDC, which would come to represent the company's technology research and analyst arm.[15] The company still maintains an IDC Predictions team of analysts today that publish regular findings on the state of the worldwide technology industry.[17]

In 1991, the first IDG DEMO Conference was held in La Quinta, CA as a live forum where companies could debut their latest technology live on stage in front of crowds of technology consumers, business decision makers, and investors. The event, which would go on to be held as conferences across the US, Asia, South America, and other countries through 2015, served as the site of notable product and software launches such as Adobe Acrobat, PalmPilot, VMware Virtual Hardware, Netscape, and Salesforce.[18]

By the mid-2000s, the company had established a rich online and print publication business, a trusted market research and analyst division, and a large global trade show presence – all which contributed to the growth of a database of over six million technology buyers and professionals. In 2006, IDG made this database of readers, website visitors, and event attendees available to technology marketers via its demand generation division IDG Connect.[19] In 2010, IDG introduced the "Nanosite", an advertising tool designed as an alternative to a microsite.[20]

### Changing ownership

[edit]

Following McGovern's death in 2014, ownership of the corporate passed to the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation,[21] until 2017 when it was purchased by China Oceanwide Holdings Group.[22] IDG, Inc. changed ownership again in May 2021 when Blackstone Inc. acquired the corporation from China Oceanwide Holdings Group for $1.3 billion.[23]

## Divisions and brands

[edit]

IDG, Inc. serves as the parent company of two major company divisions, IDC and Foundry.[24]

### International Data Corporation (IDC)

[edit]

IDC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of IDG, Inc. and is a global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology, telecommunications, and consumer technology markets.[25] IDC employs over 2,500 people globally including more than 1,300 analysts worldwide to offer expertise and insights on technology and industry trends.[26]

In 2019, Crawford Del Prete was named president of IDC after serving as its Chief Operating Officer (COO).[27]

In May 2021, IDC acquired Dutch IT intelligence consultancy Metri,[28] bolstering its presence in the Benelux region and strengthening IDC's reach and insight into Europe's IT industry.

## Former divisions

[edit]

### Foundry

[edit]

Foundry was a wholly-owned subsidiary of IDG, Inc. and is a global provider of media & event services, marketing technology, and intent data for B2B technology marketers. Formerly known as IDG Communications, the IDG Inc. subsidiary company rebranded from IDG Communications to Foundry in February 2022 as part of its strategic transformation from publisher to data and martech company.[29] Foundry employs over 1,400 people globally[30] and operates in over 140 countries around the world.[31]

Between 2020 and 2022, Foundry acquired leading data and marketing technology (MarTech) companies Triblio, Kickfire, Leadsift, and Selling Simplified as part of its strategy to transform from legacy media network to integrated marketing technology and data provider. Through both homegrown and acquired data and technologies, Foundry continues to leverage their established media brands to gather and provide insights about global technology buyers to marketers in the same space.[32]

In March 2025, Foundry was sold to private equity firm, Regent LP.[33][34]

#### Editorial brands

[edit]

Foundry owns and operates various editorial brands that publish relevant content for technology buyers in both the B2B and consumer spaces across over 90 countries.[35] With some like Computerworld and MacWorld dating back to McGovern's early ownership, the editorial brands remain central to Foundry's operations in media and technology marketing, though many of the editorial brands have transitioned from print to digital.[36]

* CIO publishes content relevant to its network of over 4 million chief information officers and IT thought leaders in 72 countries.[37] Its award-winning website, CIO.com, is a popular resource for IT decision makers.[38]
* ChannelWorld covers the sales channel and publishes content relevant to IT distributors and resellers globally.[39]
* Computerworld reaches over 12 million enterprise-level IT managers globally[40] and offers practical advice, best practices, and trends related to web applications and tools that technology professionals use and implement to support their business.[41]
* CSO is a security-focused publication that offers content to chief security officers and IT security professionals surrounding risk management, network defense, fraud, and data protection.[42]
* InfoWorld caters to developers, architects, and business leaders launching next-generation initiatives on scalable cloud platforms, and publishes content around evolving, future-forward technology such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, and NoSQL databases.[43]
* MacWorld publishes content related to Apple hardware and software releases, reviews, tutorials, and tips for Apple product users at both the business and private consumer level.[44]
* Network World is dedicated to supporting the modern data center with content aimed at data center managers around cloud computing, storage, server and virtualization technologies.[45] Network World reaches a network of over 2 million IT professionals across 14 countries.[46]
* PCWorld serves consumer and business audiences with content around evolving software technology and hardware for PCs with a focus on educating PC owner and advocates in their personal and professional purchases.[47]
* TechHive is a consumer-facing editorial brand that publishes content related to the connected home, home entertainment, and the Internet of Things. TechHive publishes reviews for connected products, featured deals, and tips for the connected homeowner.[48]

## Recognition and notable events

[edit]

In 2000, Salesforce was launched at IDG's DEMO Event the premier launch venue for new technologies from 1991 to 2015.[citation needed]

In 2001, Fortune magazine named IDG, Inc. to its list of "The 100 Best Companies to Work For", ranking the company at number 58.[citation needed]

IDG Books launched the popular reference book series For Dummies in 1991, which it owned for 10 years until selling to John Wiley & Sons, Inc. in 2001.[49]

The first ever iPhone was revealed by Steve Jobs at a MacWorld conference in 2007.[50]

## References

[edit]

1. ^ Glenn Rifkin (April 21, 1997). "At International Data Group, Diversification Strategy Is Key". The New York Times.
2. ^ "IDG Creates New Board to Support Its Expanding Technology and Data Platforms". GlobeNewswire News Room (Press release). 2022-02-02. Retrieved 2022-10-03.
3. ^ a b "IDG, Inc. – About Us". IDG, Inc. the world's leading tech media, data and marketing services company. Retrieved 2022-10-03.
4. ^ Mafei, Lucia (June 3, 2021). "With Needham HQ set to reopen, IDG trades hands for $1.3B". Boston Business Journal. Retrieved May 2, 2022.
5. ^ Group (IDG), International Data. "International Data Group Appoints Genevieve Juillard as Chief Executive Officer". www.prnewswire.com (Press release). Retrieved 2024-01-17.
6. ^ "IDG, Inc. – About Us". IDG, Inc. the world's leading tech media, data and marketing services company. Retrieved 2022-10-27.
7. ^ "UPDATED: IDG/IDC Plans To Leave Framingham For Needham". Framingham SOURCE. 2020-05-13. Retrieved 2022-10-03.
8. ^ Foundry (2022-02-17). "After Nearly 60 Years, IDG Communications Becomes Foundry". GlobeNewswire News Room (Press release). Retrieved 2022-02-18.
9. ^ chcom (2013-09-27). "International Data Group". CompaniesHistory.com – The largest companies and brands in the world. Retrieved 2022-10-27.
10. ^ "International Data Group, Inc. History". Funding Universe. 1999. Retrieved 21 April 2014.
11. ^ chcom (2013-09-27). "International Data Group". CompaniesHistory.com – The largest companies and brands in the world. Retrieved 2022-11-09.
12. ^ "The For Dummies Success Story – For Dummies". 2011-06-29. Archived from the original on 2011-06-29. Retrieved 2022-12-02.
13. ^ "Wiley: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. to Complete Acquisition of Hungry Minds, Inc". wiley.com. Retrieved 2022-12-02.
14. ^ chcom (2013-09-27). "International Data Group". CompaniesHistory.com – The largest companies and brands in the world. Retrieved 2022-12-02.
15. ^ a b "V4_IDG.com History Video 2021". play.vidyard.com. Retrieved 2023-01-18.
16. ^ Enterprise, I. D. G. (1972-09-13). Computerworld. IDG Enterprise.
17. ^ "IDC Predictions". IDC: The premier global market intelligence company. Retrieved 2023-01-18.
18. ^ "DEMO: New Tech Solving Big Problems – About". na.eventscloud.com. Retrieved 2023-01-27.
19. ^ chcom (2013-09-27). "International Data Group". CompaniesHistory.com – The largest companies and brands in the world. Retrieved 2023-02-07.
20. ^ "IDG introduces the Nanosite: a microsite contained within an ad unit". Ad Age. 2010-12-16. Retrieved 2023-02-07.
21. ^ Seave, Ava. "Tech Publisher IDG Transforming Itself From Within As It Braces For Sale Or Breakup". Forbes. Retrieved 2022-12-02.
22. ^ Gross, Grant (2017-03-29). "China Oceanwide completes its purchase of IDG". Computerworld. Retrieved 2022-12-02.
23. ^ Miller, Ron (2021-06-03). "Blackstone acquires tech publisher IDG for $1.3B, as private equity strikes again". TechCrunch. Retrieved 2022-12-02.
24. ^ "IDG, Inc. – Home". IDG, Inc. the world's leading tech media, data and marketing services company. Retrieved 2022-10-03.
25. ^ "IDC – About – Home". IDC: The premier global market intelligence company. Retrieved 2022-10-03.
26. ^ "IDC – Analysts – Home". IDC: The premier global market intelligence company. Retrieved 2022-10-03.
27. ^ "International Data Corporation (IDC) Names Crawford Del Prete Its New President". businesswire.com. 2019-01-15. Retrieved 2022-10-20.
28. ^ "IDC acquires Dutch IT intelligence consultancy Metri". consultancy.eu. 2021-05-18. Retrieved 2022-10-27.
29. ^ Wood, Chris (2022-02-18). "IDG Communications rebrands as Foundry, positions itself as a martech company". MarTech. Retrieved 2022-10-03.
30. ^ "Foundry Company Profile | Management and Employees List". Datanyze. Retrieved 2022-10-03.
31. ^ "IDG: #1 Tech Media Company in the World". IDG UK. Retrieved 2022-10-03.
32. ^ Foundry (2022-02-17). "After Nearly 60 Years, IDG Communications Becomes Foundry". GlobeNewswire News Room (Press release). Retrieved 2022-10-20.
33. ^ Dorbian, Iris (2025-03-20). "Regent picks up tech media company Foundry from IDG". PE Hub. Retrieved 2025-03-22.
34. ^ Spangler, Todd (2025-03-21). "Yahoo Sells TechCrunch to Investment Firm Regent". Variety. Retrieved 2025-03-22.
35. ^ "Foundry : Our Brands". Foundry. Retrieved 2022-10-27.
36. ^ Foundry (2022-08-02). "How I do it: Kumaran Ramanathan, President, Foundry  • Foundry". Foundry. Archived from the original on 2022-11-27. Retrieved 2022-11-09.
37. ^ "Foundry : Our Brands". Foundry. Retrieved 2022-11-09.
38. ^ "CIO Audience: Reach, Engage & Advertise". Foundry. Retrieved 2022-11-09.
39. ^ "ChannelWorld". Foundry. Retrieved 2023-01-11.
40. ^ "Our Brands". Foundry. Retrieved 2023-01-11.
41. ^ "About Us". Computerworld. Retrieved 2023-01-11.
42. ^ "CSO". Foundry. Retrieved 2023-01-18.
43. ^ "About Us". InfoWorld. Retrieved 2023-01-27.
44. ^ "About Macworld". Macworld. Retrieved 2023-02-07.
45. ^ "Network World Audience: Reach, Engage & Advertise". Foundry. Retrieved 2023-02-22.
46. ^ "Our Award-Winning Editorial Brands". Foundry. Retrieved 2023-02-22.
47. ^ "PCWorld Audience: Reach, Engage & Advertise". Foundry. Retrieved 2023-02-22.
48. ^ "TechHive Audience: Reach, Engage & Advertise". Foundry. Retrieved 2023-02-22.
49. ^ "The For Dummies Success Story – For Dummies". 2011-06-29. Archived from the original on 2011-06-29. Retrieved 2023-01-11.
50. ^ Holland, Patrick. "The iPhone at 15: Steve Jobs Revealed His Greatest Product in 2007". CNET. Retrieved 2023-01-11.

* v
* t
* e

IDG

Magazines|

* CIO
* Computerworld
* CSO
* GamePro (former)
* GameStar (former)
* Macworld
* Network World
* PC Advisor
* PC World

Websites|

* InfoWorld (The Industry Standard)
* ITworld
* JavaWorld
* TechWorld

IDG World Expo|

* DEMO
* LinuxWorld
* Macworld/iWorld

Other|

* IDC
* IDG Ventures

* v
* t
* e

Blackstone

Founders|

* Peter G. Peterson
* Stephen A. Schwarzman

Notable executives|

| Current|

* Joseph Baratta
* David Blitzer
* Jonathan D. Gray

|

Former|

* Roger Altman
* Larry Fink
* Hamilton E. James
* David Stockman
* John J. Studzinski
* Laurence Tosi

Subsidiaries|

| Former|

* Blackrock
* GSO Capital Partners
* PJT Partners

|

Investment holdings|

| Business services|

* CMS Computers
* RGIS
* SunGard (minority shareholder)

|

Consumer/retail|

* The Michaels Companies (Joint control)
* Pinnacle Foods
* United Biscuits

IT services|

* Mphasis (56.12%)

Financial services|

* BankUnited (minority stake)
* Corebridge Financial (minority stake)
* HealthMarkets (minority stake)
* FGIC (minority stake)
* Refinitiv (minority stake)

Healthcare|

* Biomet
* Emcure Pharmaceuticals (investment)
* Vanguard Health Systems

Industrial|

* Freescale (Joint Control)
* Klöckner Pentaplast
* TRW Automotive (Control)
* Essel Propack

Media/telecom|

* MNRK Music Group
* Dualtone Records
* Last Gang Records
* Light Records
* SESAC
* eAccess (investment)
* Nielsen Holdings (minority stake)
* Axtel (minority stake)
* Deutsche Telekom (minority stake)
* TDC Group (minority stake)
* The Weather Channel (minority stake)
* International Data Group

Travel & leisure|

* AGS Airports (22%)
* Bourne Leisure
* Casual Dining Group
* Center Parcs Europe (freehold)
* Center Parcs UK and Ireland
* Caesars Entertainment Corporation (former)
* Crown Resorts
* Great Wolf Resorts
* Hilton Worldwide (former)
* Merlin Entertainments (minority stake)
* SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment (former)
* Travelport
* Village Hotel Club

Real estate|

* Extended Stay America (minority stake)
* EQ Office
* La Quinta Inns & Suites
* Top Ryde City

Authority control databases

International|

* VIAF

National|

* United States
* Sweden

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