Integration software supplier WebMethods has unveiled an
array of applications, including a simplified product for smaller
businesses and a host of functionality-extending add-ons developed
through partnerships.
WebMethods Express, a point-to-point integration tool aimed at
the midmarket, will debut by the end of 2003.
The software can be used on its own or combined with WebMethods
JMS+, also due out by the end of the year, to form an ESB
(enterprise service bus) architecture tying together message
brokering with standards-based routing technology.
Two embedded-technology arrangements have helped WebMethods
create its latest tools to extend the features of its integration
system.
Software from Defywire's Mobility Suite powers the WebMethods
Mobile, which enables delivery of corporate information to mobile
devices including phones, handhelds, tablets and laptops. Coupled
with WebMethods' business activity monitoring software, WebMethods
Mobile can offer real-time alerts on corporate IT systems.
WebMethods is also relying on a partner, Informatica, for the
technology underpinning its forthcoming WebMethods Dashboard, due
in December.
WebMethods licensed Informatica's PowerAnalyzer software for the
dashboard software, which offers real-time reports and alerts on
data flowing through the WebMethods Integration Platform.
WebMethods also introduced a RFID system developed in
conjunction with OATSystems, whose RFID application, Senseware,
helps companies track supplies using the tagging technology that
could, eventually, replace bar codes.
The joint WebMethods/OATSystems offering links Senseware with
back-end corporate systems, a move intended to help companies
access more complete data about their inventories and supply
chains.
WebMethods, the industry's first web services infrastructure
company, also announced special introductory offerings of
webMethods Portal(TM) to help customers quickly and
cost-effectively move strategic portal projects into
production.
The special promotions, which are expected to remain in effect
until 31 March, are designed to remove cost barriers that may
inhibit companies from carrying out their portal projects.
The company also announced it wil be offering North American
customers a discount on its WebMethods Portal software.
The software can now be purchased for $25,000 per server, half
its list cost.
WebMethods Portal Quick Start, includes a licence for an
unlimited number of users and 80 hours of WebMethods professional
services to assist with deployment for $175,000 per project.
Staey Cowley writes for IDG News Service