Computer Associates Cancels 2005 Partner Conference

Word of the cancelled CA World 2005 show came on the same day that CA reportedly tapped IBM executive John Swainson as its new CEO. Swainson, who was IBM Software Group's general manager for applications and integration middleware division, and a veteran of the Armonk, N.Y. vendor for over two decades, will replace interim-CEO Ken Cron.

CA World 2005 was scheduled to take place April 17-21 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. CA has moved the next show back to the spring of 2006.

In a press statement, the company attributed the postponement to its attempt to "redefine" its flagship partner conference. "We want to take this extra time to transform CA World into a true industry thought leader event that will focus on the key business issues and technology industry trends that are most important to our customers," according to the statement. "We would also like to better showcase our many strong partner relationships."

CA plans to increase the number of smaller, business solution-focused conferences throughout the year to keep partners apprised of developments at the company, according to the statement.

The vendor also will be asking for feedback from customers and partners on what topics they would like to see discussed at future CA World shows.