Microsoft allies with GXS to simplify business collaboration

Microsoft has named web exchange developer GXS’ Trading Grid as its recommended B2B electronic network provider to speed and simplify integration between trading partners in global supply chains. The alliance is based on software and services that include Microsoft BizTalk Server 2006, SQL Server 2005 and Office 2007 with the GXS Trading Grid, and the two companies say they’ll support organisations of all sizes, in any geography in building real-time, collaborative B2B networks. They make the point that using Microsoft technologies means that users can extend their existing investments on .Net Framework-based systems outside their companies to provide solid integration. They also say the approach will provide a platform that spans desktop, server and services software. A BizTalk Server 2006-based Grid Ready solution will be available to the GXS customer base of more than 40,000 users world-wide, providing them with a simplified way to integrate with anywhere from one to hundreds of business partners simultaneously. “Now GXS can drive the next wave of B2B innovation and integration because of the capabilities delivered by Microsoft .Net Framework-based technologies,” says Gary Greenfield, GXS CEO. “This is particularly true for companies that need cost-effective tools to keep up with the numerous and often changing integration standards of larger trading partners… Microsoft is enabling customers of all sizes to transform their supply chains from necessary burdens into tools for growth and opportunity.”