Founded in 1979, Gartner is a provider of research and analysis about the global information technology industry. The company provides data, advice and opinions to more than 45,000 clients worldwide representing in excess of 9,000 distinct organizations. Its clients include chief information officers and other senior information technology executives in corporations and government agencies, as well as technology companies and members of the investment community. Gartner operates four businesses that consist of Gartner Research, a comprehensive collection of analysis and advice for the users and vendors of technology; Gartner Executive Programs, one of the worlds largest membership program for CIOs, senior IT managers and their direct reports; Gartner Events, a major IT conference provider; and Gartner Consulting, an independent consultancy at the intersection of business and technology. The company maintains its headquarters in Stamford, Conn., and has offices in Europe, Latin America, the Asia-Pacific Region, the Middle East and Africa.