Business Objects SA, French software developer of object-oriented support tools for relational databases, is currently beta testing its relational database tools for Excel. BusinessQuery for Excel enables users to make database queries directly from an Excel spreadsheet through a Windows interface. The software uses what the company calls Business-Intelligent Querying, so users can make searches without needing to understand database structures or SQL. BusinessQuery contains a function called smart space which works out if the spreadsheet needs to be extended to incorporate the new information so that existing data is not overwritten. It also has a QueryDirector designed to enable users to see which data within the spreadsheet came from which query. BusinessQuery for Excel will be sold as an add-in module for existing users of its Business Objects software for ú200, now. A stand-alone version will be available in June for ú300.
