Microsoft Corp and Intersolv Inc have extended their relationship which started in 1991 to promote the use and acceptance of ODBC Open Database Connectivity standards, and will now promote Microsoft’s Universal Data Access strategy and the acceptance of its OLE DB standards for extending access to non-relational data. Microsoft has said that OLE DB will eventually replace ODBC, although this is not likely to be for some time, and OLE DB will incorporate ODBC in the foreseeable future. Intersolv, which provides ODBC middleware, says its aim is to enable its customers to protect their investment as each new standard emerges. It is therefore committed to working with Microsoft to support OLE DB, which will enable access to non-relational data in electronic mail systems and Powerpoint presentations, for example. Intersolv says it will offer companies the means to migrate from ODBC to OLE DB as their business needs require. The companies say they will work to enable developers of non-Microsoft Windows applications to benefit from OLE DB by putting Microsoft’s OLE DB provider for ODBC up on other operating systems. Intersolv says it will launch a full range of OLE DB technology supporting other databases next year.
