October 14, 2005

NEW PRODUCTS SAP has unveiled SAP Best Practices offerings, 28 new versions of its predefined software and services packages available in 14 languages. Based on mySAP ERP and geared toward midsize enterprises, SAP Best Practices provides offerings for industries including retail, the public sector, and utilities, and end-to-end business process scenarios for specific industries including Prototype Development for the high-tech space. Oracle has announced the availability of Oracle Sales Contracts, a solution that automates contract authoring, execution, and compliance, while providing visibility into contractual agreements. Oracles Sales Contracts, which is part of the Oracle E-Business Suite, is integrated into Oracle's quote-to-cash process solution. Salesboom.com has announced Salesboom SmartUpgrade, a feature that will allow Salesboom administrators to select which updates they want to use and when to introduce them to their users. SmartUpgrade will be available to all Salesboom users with the upcoming release of Salesboom v7.0. Echopass has launched its EchoSystem service integration platform. The platform uses Echopass on-demand call center services and call routing infrastructure with applications including on-demand CRM and voice/data network technologies. Echosystem partner contributions include embedded CTI call routing infrastructure from Genesys Telecom Laboratories, on-demand CRM services from Salesforce.com and RightNow Technologies, and data and network carrier connectivity from Sprint-Nextel and XO Communications. Comergent Technologies has announced Comergent eBusiness System Release 7.0. The upgrade makes it easier to search online, configure a product or service, create an order, calculate prices, integrate the eBusiness System with existing back-end systems, streamline online ordering processes, and create custom functionality. The SOA-based platform features enhancements in areas including Web services, the user interface, and security. The release also includes the launch of C3 Partner Program, an application that arms partner and channel managers with one source to manage joint sales and marketing activities. IN THE NEWS Maximizer Software has reported total revenues for the third quarter of 2005 of $4.3 million, an increase of 8.1 percent compared to $4 million in the previous quarter, and an increase of 10.8 percent compared to $3.9 million year-over-year. Net loss under GAAP was $0.1 million compared to $0.3 million in the previous quarter and $0.1 million in the third quarter of 2004. Infosys Technologies has announced financial results for its second quarter ending September 30, 2005. Revenues for the quarter were $524 million, up 38.3 percent from $379 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2004. CUSTOMER WINS NetSuite has announced that the Wharton School MBA Program for Executives has implemented NetSuite CRM+ to help manage new leads, track the application process, and provide reports. The company also announced that the College Foundation of North Carolina, administered by the University of North Carolina Office of the President, has implemented NetSuite's CRM functionality for activities including ordering, phone and Web site support, and training. Envision Telephony has announced that Cygnific, a subsidiary of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, has selected Envision Click2Coach. The solution, which includes training and coaching functionality, will be used by Cygnific to improve its quality of customer service. Vertical Solutions has announced that General Binding, a developer of document finishing equipment, has selected Vertical Solutions' PowerHelp CRM--Field Service. The 175 field-service technicians in General Binding's Customer Care and Technical Service & Support divisions will use the solution. Related articles: Where's the SOA Train Headed? Oracle Unveils Its First Fusion App SAP's New Hosted Model?