San Mateo, California-based Siebel has announced backing for J2EE Connectors, technology used to simplify connection to enterprise information systems such as databases, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and legacy applications.
J2EE Connectors will allow a customer’s Java existing applications to connect quickly and simply to Siebel’s eBusiness Applications. Previously, developers with Java applications had to write to Siebel APIs, complicating integration.
The announcement comes just two days after Siebel announced a strategic deal with Sun’s arch-rival Microsoft Corp, to integrate its eBusiness suite with BizTalk Server, Windows .NET Server 2003, SQL Server, Exchange Server, Office and Visual Studio.NET.
Siebel and Microsoft will also undertake joint development, sales, marketing and customer support.
Sun and Siebel have had a strategic agreement since 1998 and offered Java interoperability with version 6.0 of its eBusiness Applications.
Sun dismissed Siebel’s announcement with Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft as a Bill Gates love fest – Microsoft’s chief executive officer spoke at Siebel’s User Conference in Los Angeles, California this week – designed to generate headlines.
Santa Clara, California-based Sun believes Java is of more relevance. The company claimed 79% of customers use Java while .NET is still undergoing early adoption. Siebel alliance director Scott Anderson said: J2EE is more important to customers.
Siebel was unavailable for comment, but in a statement the company’s vice president of products and alliances Richard Gorman, agreed. Our customers have indicated strong interest in J2EE technology to meet their integration needs, he said.
The deal also ensures Siebel’s software is not simply ripped-out for more J2EE-compliant customer relationship management (CRM) offerings and speeds integration. By supporting Java Connectors, Siebel’s software – written in C++ – effectively takes on the role of legacy software.
Java Connectors are usually adopted by makers of legacy systems simplifying the way their software hooks into newer, Java-based applications. The J2EE platform and Sun’s commitment to open Java Web Services can help ensure faster integration of Siebel eBusiness Applications, Gorman said.
Source: CBRonline
