The charm offensive paid off: Catherine Brune, Allstate's technology chief, says HP is now "winning more and more" software business from Allstate, some related consulting business--and even personal computer sales.

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The founder of Serenity Financial Consulting in Milwaukee, he has a wide-ranging expertise in personal finance, from 401(k) strategies to starting a small business.

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In a similar vein IBM will sell its personal computer business to China's Lenovo Group because IBM can make more money on things like consulting than on PCs.

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An activity is a personal service activity if it involves the performance of personal services in areas like health, law, engineering, architecture, accounting, actuarial science, performing arts and consulting.

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