An agreement between Novell and SAP promises to simplify the
workload of the IT administrator by automating configuration of IT
system accounts for new users and remote workers.
Through the deal SAP will bundle Novell's eDirectory server with
its ERP system in a bid to offer SAP users a secure environment
that can be extended across corporate networks and the
Internet.
Andy Baldin, Novell's European marketing director, said eDirectory
could be deployed with SAP HR to make applications and IT services
available to new staff when the human resources department sets up
their details. "IT managers no longer have to take responsibility
for loading new staff on to IT systems," said Baldin.
Using Novell's DirXML connector technology, he said, businesses
could provide a repository for all user information across SAP
applications and the company's IT infrastructure. The agreement
also means Novell's technology will also operate with SAP Portals,
allowing remote users to access to applications from wherever they
log in.
Along with Novell's own NetWare operating system, the eDirectory
software supports Windows NT, AIX, Solaris and Caldera Linux. The
company is now developing a version that supports HP-UX.