Microsoft Launches SQL Server 7.0 Surrounded By Partners

Microsoft officially launched SQL Server 7.0 yesterday andclaimed that more than 3,000 software vendors will support the new database. Three hundred of those companies, including enterprise application vendors Baan, SAP, and PeopleSoft, will do so within three months.

Microsoft also trotted out customers that have already implemented the database, including Pennzoil, barnesandnoble.com, and HarperCollins. HarperCollins said it's using SQL Server 7.0's new online analytical processing services to get instant point-of-sale information and to judge demand for books. The database has helped cut in half the numbers of returned books, says Lyle Anderson, group CIO at the publisher.

Microsoft president Steve Ballmer said SQL Server 7.0 addresses the performance and scalability problems of SQL 6.5. He said Baan applications should run at 10 times the former speed, and SAP applications should run twice as fast. SQL Server 7.0 is shipping now and will be available through resellers within 45 days.