Microsoft to stretch lead in business intelligence with PerformancePoint

Microsoft is due to launch Office PerformancePoint Server 2007 on September 19, and SQL Server 2008 is scheduled for the second quarter of 2008. Both promise significant enhancements. PerformancePoint Server 2007 is aimed at streamlining all business monitoring, analysis and planning activities, and allowing individuals throughout an organisation to collaborate on improving performance. Currently, SQL Server 2005 is the engine behind the information sharing, but SQL Server 2008 will take on the role – storing business-critical information and delivering the right information at the right time. Microsoft also says users will notice time and cost of managing data is significantly reduced. “We are focused on helping our customers achieve higher levels of business performance by allowing them to take advantage of the rich BI capabilities,” says Chris Caren, general manager of Office Business Applications at Microsoft. The latest preview of PerformancePoint Server 2007 is available at https://connect.microsoft.com/site/sitehome.aspx?SiteID=181&wa=wsignin1.0, and enables potential customers and partners to provide feedback on both products. The SQL Server 2008 July CTP can be downloaded at http://connect.microsoft.com/sqlserver.