Forte Releases XML-Based Application Adapters

Forte Software Inc. is making a push into the enterprise application integration market. The vendor today unveiled XML-based application adapters for SAP R/2 and R/3 and Vantive Enterprise applications, the first in a line called the Forte Adapter Series. The company has also created an EAI business unit and will target its flagship development and process-management tools for EAI tasks.

Although vendors such as CrossWorlds Software Inc. sell adapters for linking packaged applications, Forte says its development tools are needed to link applications developed in-house. "We strongly believe that as the EAI market evolves, development will be an increasingly important component," says Marty Sprinzen, Forte president and CEO. A software development kit specifically designed for integration tasks will be available in about 90 days, according to the company.

Prices for the adapters, based on system configuration, will start at $10,000. Forte also announced that it will resell Iona Technologies' Orbix middleware for building links to Corba-based software.