QAD and Progress Software extend partnership around SOA for lean

QAD already embeds Progress’ technology in its QAD Enterprise Applications, now in use at more than 5,500 customer sites in over 90 countries. The new agreement means that the pair will now go beyond the Progress OpenEdge application platform, to include Progress Sonic ESB (Enterprise Service Bus), Progress Actional for SOA (service orientated architecture) management and the company’s EasyAsk natural language and query software that together enable integration, visibility and future-proofing in a lean manufacturing context. QAD says it’s all part of the company’s drive for ‘the perfect lean market’, it’s current buzz phrase, by helping users to harness their existing IT investment for significant operational improvements both internally and out to the supply chain. Pam Lopker, president of QAD, also suggests that many QAD applications are evolving towards a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model, where application services are delivered via web technologies – and that its new deal with Progress will accelerate that move. As for SOA, she sees that as integral to enabling global manufacturers to gain the functionality then need to better manage supply and demand chains, enterprise assets, transportation and logistics, while streamlining communication and improving manufacturing productivity. “In today’s rapidly evolving business marketplace, customers seek efficiency and competitive advantage. It is vital that QAD and its key technology providers work closely to create better, more robust and flexible business solutions,” she says. “We view Progress as an important component in our R&D strategy, and we expect customers will benefit from the investments both our companies are making to deliver on our vision of ‘the perfect lean market’.”