Oracle Showcases Web-Based ERP Suite

Oracle underscored its commitment to the Internet at itssemi-annual user conference yesterday. The company offered asneak peek at its upcoming enterprise resource planningsuite that uses the Internet, Oracle Applications Release11i. Due later this year, 11i will feature a new userinterface that company officials say combines an Internetlook and feel with access to self-service applications andanalytical information.

Officials say 11i will also include modules that support newways of doing business on the Internet. For example, a newInternet Accounts Receivable module will let users handlecollections inquiries and bill-dispute resolutions online.Release 11i also includes procurement functionality forordering business supplies and other materials via onlinecatalogs, as well as a Web-based product configurationengine, which should allow consumers to configure and ordercomplex products such as PCs from an Internet storefront.

Jim Holincheck, an analyst for the Giga Information Group,says Oracle will continue to push its Internet-basedapplications, especially since the market for moretraditional ERP applications is drying up. "The Internet ischanging the way business is conducted, and Oracle seemswell-positioned here," he says. "It is looking at newchannels and product lines, such as online procurement, todrive growth this year."