Oracle users seek answers at AppsWorld

Oracle's AppsWorld Conference opens in London today, with debate about the proposed takeover of rival PeopleSoft likely to dominate proceedings.

But away from the rumour mill delegates will be getting to grips with the more mundane issue of upgrading to Oracle's 11i suite of business applications, and getting value for money out of customer relationship managament (CRM) software.

In designing the conference agenda, Oracle sought the views of the UK Oracle User Group (UKOUG).

"Our members still have questions about upgrading to 11i. And there's been a real interest in CRM in the public sector," said Paul Parnis, applications director for the UKOUG.

But Parnis warned that any deal for PeopleSoft might not all be good news for Oracle users. "Any consolidation of this sort is a two-edged sword," he said.

"PeopleSoft specialised in HR and payroll, so there may be some good stuff in there to incorporate in Oracle's applications.

"But reducing the number of competitors alleviates the pressure on Oracle to deliver. They may slow the introduction of product developments, or not maintain the same level of customer support."

The conference will hear from Oracle's chief executive Larry Ellison (pictured)and a number of other senior executives. Oracle AppsWorld takes place at the Excel Conference Centre in London, and runs until Thursday.