Microsoft releases BizTalk Server 2006

Microsoft has announced the release to manufacturing of its BizTalk Server 2006 business process management and application integration offering.

The latest release features some 20 application and technology adapters designed to improve application integration and business process management, according to the software giant.

The Enterprise and Standard Editions include adapters for popular applications such as SAP, Siebel, PeopleSoft, Oracle Database, and JD Edwards at no extra charge.

Microsoft admitted that usability issues had emerged as "a strong area of focus" in customer feedback from the 2004 version of the product.

As a result, BizTalk Server 2006 includes improved management and deployment capabilities, real-time alerting functionality, and a revamped business activity monitoring portal.

The offering also features improved capabilities to help businesses integrate legacy and mainframe systems.

The move was welcomed by analysts. "Today's businesses face increasing competition, especially on cost and quality, and stricter regulations require tighter business operations," said Janelle Hill, research vice president at Gartner.

"Only excellent business processes can enable organisations to meet competitive challenges and demonstrate compliance with regulations."

Oliver Sharp, general manager in the Connected Systems Division at Microsoft, added: "Integrating disparate applications and automating business processes are no longer nice to have, but are essential parts of doing business."