The stock has gained 30% over the past twelve months, outpacing many technology industry peersWhile IBM’s software unit has thrived, its consulting business has seen multiple quarters of strain. PHOTO: REUTERS[SAN FRANCISCO] International Business Machines (IBM) reported quarterly sales that topped analysts’ estimates on strong growth for its closely watched software unit. The largest chunk of revenue came from IBM’s software business, which jumped 14 per cent to US$9.03 billion, also above estimates. Investors have been enthusiastic about the strategy as software has provided an increasingly share of IBM’s sales. While IBM’s software unit has thrived, its consulting business has seen multiple quarters of strain.